tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56091129057400238412024-03-13T03:59:50.456-07:00GhettoMommaThe Challenges and Adventures of a Single Momma. Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.comBlogger19125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-9835641948432684642017-12-07T22:57:00.002-08:002017-12-07T22:57:26.193-08:00& so the day ends... The lights are off and the boys are in bed.<br />
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& so the day ends.<br />
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I'd like to pretend that life is perfect but it would be like painting a picture of expectations vs reality.<br />
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There's laundry piled up in the laundry room that's been sitting there for weeks. Dishes unwashed. And a very exhausted momma just trying to get through one last workday of the week.<br />
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Tomorrow is Friday. yay!<br />
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And then the boys go off to their dad's for the weekend.<br />
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It gets lonely. It gets busy. There's never enough time. And I make all the excuses in the world as to why I am still flying solo.<br />
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There are dreams to chase and boys to take care of. But more and more these days, I wonder what life would be like if I allowed myself to take a chance.<br />
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Maybe it's the getting old stage. 31 is coming up quick, in 4 days to be exact.<br />
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I guess most of us have imagined ourselves with a life that's all settled down by now.<br />
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But maybe there's a bright side to it.<br />
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Maybe. I'm still waiting on it.<br />
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This year has been absolutely amazing - a lot of ups and downs still, but more than I could ever imagine.<br />
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There's more work to be done. But I'll shut down for now.<br />
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& so the day ends...<br />
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<br />Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-9815275469100968502017-09-30T08:05:00.000-07:002017-09-30T10:16:35.168-07:00Freedom + Finish Lines + some of my fave things that has helped me keep going. While I haven't really had much time to write, I thought today is worth making the time.<br />
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It's pretty funny how you remember exactly how it felt like.. you know, when you get hit by a mountain load of problems that you didn't think you could ever fix. It kinda felt like it was the end of you. You think, "How in the world am I going to make it through this?".<br />
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That was 4 years ago.<br />
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It was very overwhelming, I can tell you that much.<br />
But one thing kept me going & with that, I am forever and everyday grateful.<br />
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It made me believe in the good in the world. It made me believe that one good deed could make such an impact on a person's life. When you give a little bit of your time to listen to a friend, when you share a bit of your life to a stranger, when you take a chance on hiring a girl with big dreams & just the fact that you've given a little bit of encouragement and support - it could mean & change the world for someone.<br />
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And it has meant the world for this girl and her little fam.<br />
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It's pretty funny looking back in those 4 years - to those that have supported the crazy ideas + side hustles, the many fun adventures that we got into because we were trying to put food in the table or pay that extra bill, the hand me downs and shopping in your cousin's garage for clothes, the people that have graciously fed us and sent food our way - you guys have no idea how happy this makes the boys & for the bestest fam in the world that has helped me with the boys, <b><i>thank you!!!!</i></b><br />
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When I became a Single Parent, I had thought that it meant I had to do life alone. That losing a partner meant that I had to carry all these load on my shoulders. But little by little, life has shown me that I wasn't in this journey alone and that I didn't have to do it alone...<br />
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We didn't have a lot. We got by with very little. But we were <b><i>very rich with friends, family, love and lots of adventures + laughs. </i></b><br />
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Upon receiving a letter that was bearing some pretty kickass news, we've hit our finish line. A nice little milestone in the life of a single parent.<br />
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Life can be pretty tough and I'm sure we all have our own share of it - but when you're surrounded with good people in your life, it's all that really matters. Was it easy? Hell no. But I can't complain, it has been the most amazing ride.<br />
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We still don't have a lot. We're still getting by with very little. But we are still greatly blessed & very thankful to have amazing people in our life.<br />
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Freedom + Finish lines, it feels pretty damn good. There truly must be someone up there who hears our little prayers.<br />
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& In hopes of passing it on... here's a few of my fave things that's been passed on to me that has helped keep me going.<br />
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<b>"Are you puking? No? Keep GOING!!!"</b> </div>
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(the runner/trainer friend)</div>
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<b>"Sometimes, you just have to Rip the bandaid." </b></div>
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(the amazing boss)</div>
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<b>"If you fail today. You try again today. Not tomorrow. Today." </b></div>
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(the badass mentor)</div>
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<b>"If you don't like where you are, move. You are not a tree."</b><br />
(pinterest. hehe)<br />
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<b>"Find your passion & do that. Everything else will follow."</b><br />
(the decision making helper parent)<br />
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<b>"Don't Stress. It all works out in the end." </b></div>
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(the inspiring friend)<br />
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& it truly does. Hang in there. </div>
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Life gets better, friends! Beautiful days awaits <3</div>
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xoxo, <i>Ghettomomma</i></div>
Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-56292742392414384142017-06-23T20:53:00.001-07:002017-06-24T07:12:28.559-07:00 Is there a bright side in Hitting Rock Bottom? <div class="p1">
"The bright side in hitting Rock Bottom.... "</div>
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Say what?!!! </div>
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There’s such a thing?!!! </div>
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I’m sure everyone’s gotten their share of rock bottoms. Some harder than others, but there is no escaping them. If you haven’t yet, well, aren't you a little too young to be reading a single momma's blog? hit x. (or not - you decide)</div>
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But what if you’re there right now? </div>
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Is there such a thing as a bright side to hitting Rock Bottom?</div>
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Well, for one, Hitting rock bottom means that you have an opportunity to decide on what’s next. </div>
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Yes, it might be painful and tough now, but life doesn't end there - What's next? </div>
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Hitting rock bottom means that you now know where you don’t ever want to be - which means that when you do get out of it, you will know so much better than to get yourself in that position ever again. Life lessons, kids.<br />
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Sometimes we have to learn things the hard way, but as you learn of these things, know that these are lessons that will make you better and help you in many different areas in your life. </div>
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Hitting rock bottom means that, well, life can’t get any worse, can it? When you do come out of this - you will always remember that. Everything else that comes your way will not seem so bad anymore. You will come out of it stronger than you can ever imagine yourself to be.</div>
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They say that tough times make tough people. I didn’t believe it then, but I do now. </div>
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Hitting rock bottom - will make you feel like there’s no hope for things to get better. It can make you feel very defeated - but you can also use this time in your life to push yourself, take it as a challenge and take every bit of it as a lesson, motivation to bounce back & MAKE life better. </div>
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Is there a bright side in Hitting Rock Bottom? </div>
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I’ll let you decide. </div>
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xoxo, </div>
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G’momma</div>
Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-23728191873258786452017-05-22T21:51:00.001-07:002017-05-23T18:39:45.328-07:00REFRESH <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I can’t tell you enough how much I needed to breathe today. Like, really, BREATHE a DEEP DEEP BREATH x 10 and repeat. </div>
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It has been the longest weekend ever. Nothing was going right. Well, at least that’s how I’ve been feeling like. And the last straw today was this. </div>
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We picked up our groceries and my little one dropped a bottle of milk and spilled ALL OVER THE ELEVATOR.<br />
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MILK EXPLOSION. EVERYWHERE. </div>
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We quickly put the spilling bottle of milk in a bag (filled with groceries) and ran to our door with milk still spilling in the hallway - a carpeted hallway. </div>
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I did not see what happened. It scared him too. He cried. He was crying. His brother and I were cleaning up items from the bag and I had to quickly go back and wipe the elevator clean - as we had neighbours coming in and out. </div>
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I got back and I was about to lose it.<br />
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Oh - and along with other groceries, my phone took a milk bath in that bag and no longer works (I also buried it in rice overnight) </div>
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But there, I saw the Big brother trying to comfort the little one. </div>
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"It's okay. It was an accident. It happens..."<br />
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And I exhaled… a DEEP DEEP BREATH x10 and repeat. </div>
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I dream of good days. And really, we do have good ones. But life ain’t always that way. We like to call our home, Our Happy Place. And we do make every effort to make it that. But some days, there’s this… and some days, a whole lot of this. </div>
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Which brings me to my point. </div>
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REFRESH. </div>
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You know that thing that you click on your browser when things stop loading? You hit stop and refresh.. and then it starts loading again. </div>
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Once in a while, we’re kinda like that. life’s kinda like that. I feel the need to hit stop and refresh. </div>
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to take a DEEP DEEP BREATH x10 and repeat. </div>
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We talked shortly after and he said it was an accident. I apologized for being mad. My other not so little guy was right, these things happen. </div>
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And I know that it wasn’t just because of the exploding milk that I was close to losing it. Mommying is a tough job, and ya’ll know it. </div>
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It’s the little things that build up. </div>
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And the truth is.. </div>
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I haven’t been doing my part in dealing with it and these are the days that really make me aware of it. </div>
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REFRESH. </div>
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<i>Make some “YOU” time. </i></div>
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<i>Hop in a nice bath. a bubble bath. </i></div>
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<i>Take a nice walk. </i></div>
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<i>Wake up a little earlier to grab a cup of “HOT” coffee and drink said “HOT” coffee. </i></div>
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<i>Read a book. and no, not Facebook. </i></div>
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<i>UNPLUG. </i></div>
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<i>Talk to a friend. </i></div>
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<i>Grab your weights/ do a little YOGA / stretch / Run (hehe.)</i><br />
<i>or (if we're bein real here) put the music up and dance like YOLO!!! </i></div>
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<i>And BREATHE. </i></div>
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<i>A DEEP DEEP BREATH x10 and repeat. </i></div>
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REFRESH. </div>
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Yes, I get it, even that feels and takes a little effort. But ya’ll know - We need it. </div>
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REFRESH. </div>
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Have an awesome week ahead <3</div>
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xoxo, GMOMMA </div>
Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-47972004063142376262017-02-25T21:30:00.002-08:002017-02-25T21:31:56.478-08:00Saving the dolla dolla billz - Where to begin? I've been thinking about savings and where to begin. What's the best way to put money aside and what can I do today to start putting money away. So, I got a bit of help, Arvin shares with us an insight on where to begin. <br />
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<b>Reduce credit debt</b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "san francisco" , , , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.24px; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you have any credit card debt at all, this is where you want to start working on. Let me explain. When you put your or take money in different environments ( savings, investment, your closet, loans, etc), it does not grow at the same rate. Let's say you just take your money and put it in a shoebox you have in your closet. It actually decreases in value due to inflation. So if you had $100 and assuming a 2% inflation, after a year you would only be able to use that money on things worth $98 in the year before. That's because things get more expensive every year. Today an apple might cost $1, next year it could be $1.02. It doesn't sound so bad but when you realize it happens every year and it affects everything then your fixed costs ( Rent, groceries, bills, etc) might be $10,000 a year, in 20 years it will cost you almost $15,000 a year. That’s a $5000 increase! Most credit cards have a 20% interest rate, which is even worse. A $10,000 credit card loan will cost you $300,000 in 20 years. So unless you can find a savings account or investment that can give you more than 20% return. Then I highly suggest starting with that. - <i>Arvin Orena, Life insurance broker and personal finance advisor</i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "san francisco" , , , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.24px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "san francisco" , , , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.24px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Having said that, here are a few tips and tricks that we can do on the daily to start putting money away that can work for us. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "san francisco" , , , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.24px; white-space: pre-wrap;">1. No Spend Week Challenge. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "san francisco" , , , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.24px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Every week, challenge yourself to spend $0 on certain items. One week, I would spend $0 on eating out. Other weeks, we decide it's $0 on entertainment. That's not saying we don't do fun stuff, it just allows us to be more creative. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "san francisco" , , , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.24px; white-space: pre-wrap;">2. Change, Change, Change. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "san francisco" , , , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.24px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Every dollar counts. If you can collect as much change in a week and put them aside every month - that could go into your savings! </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "san francisco" , , , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.24px; white-space: pre-wrap;">3. Start Small</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.24px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Seeing the bigger picture helps but starting small allows you to start putting it to action. Start taking out $5/week and go from there.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "san francisco" , , , , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.24px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "san francisco" , , , , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.24px; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you haven't seen it yet, I share a <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/vyhkalaf3c5jvug/twentyseventeen.pdf?dl=0" target="_blank">free download</a> and my app pick of the week that helps me with staying on track with the <a href="https://ghettomomma.blogspot.com/b/post-preview?token=42KZeloBAAA.r41woJDf6RMlTVAXRPfp7oL61DdCztCxB0kP0Xib8NKeRvqDqfcF8O_-37EM3-VPtnsQ8ANIADfsH8W_F_WTJg.KOMMotGxo-XnOlsvoqtBBw&postId=1441654357570794558&type=POST" target="_blank">dolla dolla billz yo! </a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "san francisco" , , , , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.24px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://ghettomomma.blogspot.com/b/post-preview?token=42KZeloBAAA.r41woJDf6RMlTVAXRPfp7oL61DdCztCxB0kP0Xib8NKeRvqDqfcF8O_-37EM3-VPtnsQ8ANIADfsH8W_F_WTJg.KOMMotGxo-XnOlsvoqtBBw&postId=1441654357570794558&type=POST" target="_blank">I hope that helps! </a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "san francisco" , , , , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.24px; white-space: pre-wrap;">xoxo, Ghettomomma </span></span><br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">& If you like this post - please share with your badass checklist loving friends :) </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #4080ff; color: white; font-family: "san francisco" , , , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.24px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-14416543575707945582017-02-20T08:11:00.002-08:002017-02-20T08:16:29.896-08:00FREE DOWNLOAD : 2017 CHECKLIST - FOR YOUR DOLLA DOLLA BILLZ YO! I am a very visual person and sometimes, making sure that I've caught up on my monthly bills gives me that one less thing to worry about on the daily.<br />
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I used to always be logging in and out of my online banking and seeing if I still need to keep on budget, put in a bit more hours to get us through the month and if there was a bill that I haven't paid just yet. </div>
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I've learned to sit down twice a month to make sure that everything is up to date.<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/vyhkalaf3c5jvug/twentyseventeen.pdf?dl=0"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GtpW8AlHiiA/WKsUmm3-nyI/AAAAAAAAA1c/G0djuIewCpEKhg2xo1sV7-V4PDdf6yZxQCLcB/s640/dolladollabillzyo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Now, if you're not the paper type - There's an APP for that! </b></div>
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A couple of years ago, my brother introduced me to this app that can hook up into your bank account. I was a little hesitant at first but you guys, it's been pretty safe. I've had zero problems with it. You can enter in your monthly budgets and it gives you a pretty chart report of where your money's going. It also gives you email reminders if say, you're about to hit your "FOOD" limit - which I'm not going to lie, has happened way too many times. (oops) But it's a pretty awesome way to stay on track. </div>
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You can find this app budgeting thing here : <a href="https://www.mint.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">https://www.mint.com</span></a></div>
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And it's been one of the best things that has helped me stay on track with my daily spending and figuring out on whether I need to adjust the work-life balance. </div>
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If you like pretty looking things to keep on your desks, to stick on your fridge and have the satisfaction of picking up your pretty pens and putting on that check on a checklist as you pay out those disgusting bills - you're very welcome to <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/vyhkalaf3c5jvug/twentyseventeen.pdf?dl=0" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">DOWNLOAD</span></a> this ready made<span style="color: red;"> <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/vyhkalaf3c5jvug/twentyseventeen.pdf?dl=0" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">2017 CHECKLIST for your Dolla Dolla Billz Yo!</span></a> </span></div>
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I hope that helps :) Have an awesome Monday! </div>
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xoxo, Ghettomomma</div>
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& If you like this post - please share with your badass checklist loving friends :) </div>
Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-86604540914069684522017-02-19T07:51:00.001-08:002017-02-19T08:09:17.615-08:00Dear Winter Blues.I have been living in the land of cold and snow for a good 5 years now. Every winter, I would tell myself that I would give some fun winter activities a try. Well, I always end up hiding under the blanket with a good warm coffee or hot chocolate (and a bag of chips. oops.) and make it a good excuse to watch a full series of tv shows that I haven't had the time to watch throughout the year (aka The Mindy Project). In other words, I Pig-Out!<br />
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But 2016 came and while 2015 was what I would consider a good year, I really did not plan ahead enough last year to balance work and play. For the first week of January 2016, I am already feeling burnt out. I could blame it on the weather. But man, is this body just really giving up on me!<br />
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My mind is completely drained. I am tired. Of Everything. And I need to do something about it - fast!<br />
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I booked a week off from work with zero plans and as my last day was approaching, I had asked around for what to do.<br />
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I ended up in Rabbit Hill with the gfriends. We found a deal on Groupon for the day and decided to do something we all haven't done before, SNOWBOARD.<br />
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Ha. The noob in me asked a lot of questions and watched what everyone did. My bum has not had this much action in forever! I have terrible balance so yes, I was falling every 5-10 seconds. Kids half my size were doing so much better than I was. But OMG, it's the funnest thing I've done in a while.<br />
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I woke up today and I'm sore as crap! But I needed this. I needed a break. I needed a little excitement. And I needed this time with some of my fave people.<br />
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To survive as a mom - a working mom - a working single mom, I've been learning to "Let Go". I had always thought that it would make me such a horrible parent if I go out and have fun on my own. I would always have that guilt in me. But since learning to give myself a "Day Off" or a "Time Out" on my own, as an individual, without my boys, it has given me that breath of freshness and re-motivates me to push through another few weeks or months until I feel the need for a "Time Out" again.<br />
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Maybe this year, I will push to schedule these "Time Outs", add them in my calendar and not wait for the burn out.<br />
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When was the last time you had your ME time ?</div>
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Is it time to schedule in a Day Off ?</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: "open sans"; font-size: 14px;">xoxo, Ghettomomma </span></div>
Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-45445673278207574312016-07-12T02:48:00.000-07:002016-07-13T11:50:19.721-07:00Get It Together : 3 little things that is easily causing you to BURN OUT!!! Whether you're working double jobs, working a full time job and side hustling, single parent hustling, or just the kind that likes to spend a ton of time working.. there are ways to go around it without BURNING OUT.<br />
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Here's 3 little things to watch for that can easily cause you to BURN OUT!!! </div>
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1. NOT HAVING A LIMIT. </div>
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We like the hustle - believe it or not, for whatever reason, some people really enjoy it. But as much as we'd like to put in as much hours in a day as we can - our bodies are not machines (and even machines break down). I'm not against it, by all means, hustle. Do what you love, do what you should for your families. </div>
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But give yourself a LIMIT. </div>
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It can be anything from the hours of work/ amount of energy you can put in - within a day, a week or a month. It also depends on the 'type' of work that you do. Say, I know I'm okay with putting in 12+ hours of computer work in a day - but I also know that I would totally die working the same amount of time working on a job that requires me to run around and a lot of my energy. And if you're doing a little bit of both, find your happy balance. </div>
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Kinda like playing the lottery - Know your Limit, Stay within it. </div>
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2. NOT GETTING ENOUGH SLEEP. </div>
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SLEEP? What SLEEP?!</div>
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- Yea, I thought so too. Until I crashed so many times in the middle of the day - surrounded with little ninjas jumping around and all over me, and I would not feel a thing. zero. passed out. </div>
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Sleep is important. </div>
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A full 8 hour sleep can make such a difference to your day and week. And if you're still making your way to hitting that number, naps are fun too! </div>
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Your Body will Thank You, and Reward you with the energy you need to Hustle through another day. Now, unplug that TV and get to BED! </div>
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3. NOT ALLOCATING SOME 'ME' TIME THROUGHOUT YOUR DAY. </div>
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Who's got time for that? You do!<br />
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You will MAKE TIME for it!</div>
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I have never really been that 'Morning Person' but I can tell you how AMAZING it is to start your day with a good coffee, a 5 minute read (nope, we're not talking facebook. grab a real book.), breathing in that morning breeze and taking in all the peace and quiet before all the chaos begins.<br />
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Some would wake up the extra hour to go for a morning run/workout before work - I've done this one summer, it's amazing how much energy it can give you to get your day started. </div>
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AT LEAST 30 minutes a day - to yourself - to clear your head - to breathe, can make all the difference.<br />
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When I manage to dodge any of these three bullets, I find that my days are better, I am better and I have helped keep the world a safer place. </div>
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Happy Hustling! </div>
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xo, Ghettomomma</div>
Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-21803430701852391792016-06-29T09:11:00.002-07:002016-07-12T07:05:13.316-07:00I Hope You Never Forget... <div style="text-align: left;">
Dear Momma, (or Dadda) </div>
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There is a thing that you must know.<br />
If you already have a growing kid, I hope by now, you've already figured this out.<br />
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If not, well, here's why I am writing to you.<br />
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There is a thing that you must know.<br />
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In the midst of the everyday chaos - the crying, the feeding, the happy giggles, the messy dinner tables, fun bubble baths and running around chasing little ones that have learned to run on their two steady feet - There is another person in your little world that matters.<br />
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There is a thing that you must know.<br />
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You look at them with your tired, very little to no sleep eyes and you still smile as you think ' these little guys are insanely lucky they are capable of being the cutest things in the world.' - and they are. They are the most amazing gift. They fill your heart with so much love and fill your hands with .. well, I'll let you decide on that.<br />
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But There is a Thing That you must know, and one that I hope You Never Forget.<br />
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Life can get Insanely Busy and It isn't hard for any parent to forget - I've done it, I am still guilty of it once in a while.<br />
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& if it's something that you've forgotten about, I hope that this be your quick reminder.<br />
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There is a thing that you must know.<br />
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Actually, it's a Who. It's a very special someone that I hope you don't forget to take care of.<br />
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The moment that this person wakes up to the end of the day, this person is responsible for the world of another. What do I feed the kids? What are they going to do today? Who is bringing them to school? Who is picking them up? Where are the socks? You know, the ones that match? Never mind, no one really cares if they match. What's happening after school? Do they have games to go to? Parties to attend? Oh crap! That party that my 5 year old was waiting for all week happened YESTERDAY!!!!<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nSSy1T4Wqgg/V3Py5OXdy-I/AAAAAAAAAs8/G267wjyByOA43unlUZdAN0sk8RQ0CYxYQCLcB/s1600/13332752_633580646811407_1300751159844512859_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nSSy1T4Wqgg/V3Py5OXdy-I/AAAAAAAAAs8/G267wjyByOA43unlUZdAN0sk8RQ0CYxYQCLcB/s320/13332752_633580646811407_1300751159844512859_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>Yes, that person. Take care of her. Feed her well. Remind her that She is just as important as the little ones that she is pouring out all her love and energy into. Tell her to never stop doing the things that she loves. Tell her that her dreams still matter. Tell her to take a break once in a while - to breathe - to have fun. Tell her she has a life outside of being a Parent - it may not feel like it, but it is something that she needs to pursue - for her sanity & the safety of everybody around her (hehe).<br />
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<b><i>Take Care of You, Momma (and Dadda).</i></b> </div>
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This is the bestest gift that you can give to your Kids. (aside from happy meals, trips to toys r us, lightsabers & those new Jordans.. ugh.) </div>
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& to quote our all time fave JB song - I hope you never forget to...<i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i><b><i>"Love Yourself."</i></b></div>
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xo, coffees and lotsa wine!</div>
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- Ghettomomma</div>
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Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-11961070832925171762015-11-03T06:27:00.000-08:002015-11-03T06:43:20.058-08:00The Pizza Story. Have you ever been in a situation where your kid asks for something and you had to say "No". And it's not like you didn't wanna give it to them, but rather, you just couldn't.<br />
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<b>The Pizza Story.</b><br />
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There was a time that I could not afford to give the boys their Pizza Nights. Some might find it really shallow and stupid that I make such a big deal out of Pizza Nights. But it was a big part of our weekend and when we hit that situation in our lives, it hurt like hell. I could not afford anything, at all. There's me scrambling around for change and it would not be enough for a small sized Pizza.<br />
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We didn't have Pizza Nights for a good 6 months or so.. but here's a few things that we learned :<br />
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1. We didn't die when we didn't have Pizza Nights.<br />
Yes, we love Pizza!!! We're crazy about it, but we're still here and breathing, we survived.<br />
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<b><i>There are things that we can live without. </i></b><br />
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2. We valued Pizza Nights more when it wasn't a normal weekend thing but something that we saved up for and waited to get. The boys learned to give up little toys that they would pick up while we do our groceries because they wanted their Pizza.<br />
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<b><i>The harder you work for something, the more you'll value it.</i></b><br />
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3. We learned that Pizza Nights are better when they are shared. At the time when we couldn't afford it, we had family and friends offer to buy the boys Pizza when we visited. The boys know that once we were able to afford it, they are more than happy to share.<br />
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<b><i>When we didn't have any, we were offered kindness. When we had some, we learned to share and pass it </i>on.</b><br />
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4. We settled for cheaper alternatives. The boys weren't as crazy about it, but it was ok, we still enjoyed it.<br />
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<b><i>It really wasn't the Pizza that made Pizza Nights, it was our time together that mattered.</i></b><br />
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5. As soon as we learned no.4, we were ok with only having it on Special Occasions or when we were celebrating something. It stopped becoming a weekend thing, because together, the boys and I have learned to spend more time and catch up on the daily, we stopped having to wait for Pizza Nights.<br />
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<b><i>As busy as life can get, building relationships with your kids (or people) don't have to be a weekend thing. It can be done on the daily - with or without Pizza. </i></b><br />
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<i>Here's the boys and I on our first Pizza Night at the new place we moved in 3 months ago. We're very thankful for everyone and everything that we have in our lives. God's blessings has truly been overwhelming. We will continue to pass it on...</i></div>
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Hope everyone's pushing through a good week.<br />
The boys and I are up and ready to hustle. Let the chaos begin ^_^<br />
xoxo, GhettomommaGhettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-9682851714340964302015-08-02T15:47:00.001-07:002015-08-02T18:02:57.174-07:00Let it go, Let it go.Letting go hurts. <div>- especially when it's with something or someone that has meant a lot to you that you've held on to for so long. </div><div><br></div><div>Letting go is scary. </div><div>- what would you do without them? When once upon a time, they became your direction, your life, your world. </div><div><br></div><div>But Letting go can also be one of the best decisions you can ever make. (*in the right circumstances) </div><div>- When you let go of things that aren't supposed to be yours anymore, it makes way for better things to come into your life. Things that you'd never expect to come your way; </div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Beautiful things - like finding yourself again, finding new dreams and adventures.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Simple joys - like learning to open yourself up to new things and seeing life differently. </span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Let go.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Breathe. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Have a little faith. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">"Joy comes in the morning."</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a5WRLBeW2Z0/Vb6d650JECI/AAAAAAAAAhs/cBOKYCwTuMY/s640/blogger-image--52711024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a5WRLBeW2Z0/Vb6d650JECI/AAAAAAAAAhs/cBOKYCwTuMY/s640/blogger-image--52711024.jpg"></a></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">xoxo, </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Ghettomomma </font></div>Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-91896357083979198982014-11-08T08:54:00.001-08:002014-11-10T14:06:00.993-08:00Big Hero 6 + mini lessons on Moving ForwardOver the weekend, we went to see Big Hero 6. Having seen the preview, the bois and I were super excited to see the adorable big marshmallow turn into a superhero. <div>The word Superhero alone makes the boys extremely excited to see it. <div><br></div><div>It instantly became our favorite movie of the year. We laughed, I cried, we laughed some more. I swear, it was absolutely hilarious. </div><div><br></div><div>While I already love action filled cartoon movies, I really liked the lessons that came with it too. </div><div><br></div><div>Here are a few things we can learn from Big Hero 6. I am going to try my bestest to not spoil the movie for you - if you haven't seen it yet. </div><div><br></div><div>1.) In times of trouble, <b><i>We need friends. </i></b>We would much rather be alone and throw ourselves a pity party - nothing wrong with that. But let's face it, as much as we think we're ok without them, we need them and if you have people in your life that want to be there for you, don't shut them out, let them. You will up your recovery progress x10. </div><div><br></div><div>2.) <b><i>Hugs are the best. </i></b>The same that a smile goes a long way, hugs can make you feel 10x better. From a family, a friend, heck, hug a stranger. You don't know if they need it too :) </div><div>(just be safe!)</div><div><br></div><div>3.) <b><i>Revenge is always the initial reaction to pain. </i></b>Yep, when we get hurt, we want them to feel the same way they've hurt us - sometimes, even more. Its natural, that's how we're built but... </div><div><br></div><div>4.)<b><i> You have a choice.</i></b> When he said, "We are not programmed to destroy." - that was him making a choice. For all we know, he could've. But he didn't, it wouldn't change the past, the current situation and it wouldn't make things better. </div><div><br></div><div>5.) <i><b>Go for an adventure. </b></i>You can go all out if you can, otherwise, mini adventures are just as fun. It's good for you. It keeps your mind away for a bit. It will help clear your head and it is an effective treatment ;) </div><div><br></div><div>Big Hero 6 is a big thumbs up on our books. Watch it with your kids, your families, even alone - make it your mini adventure. It is sure to give you a good laugh :) </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-vCDYQu6bXb0/VF5KsAEheaI/AAAAAAAAAVU/RsJ0PEoIgjw/s640/blogger-image--1276513681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-vCDYQu6bXb0/VF5KsAEheaI/AAAAAAAAAVU/RsJ0PEoIgjw/s640/blogger-image--1276513681.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>There, I did my bestest not to spoil it for you, but if you've already seen it and would like to add on and share your thoughts, I'd love to hear them :) </div><div><br></div><div>Happy Monday! </div><div>#Letsdothis, I'm cheering on you! </div><div>GhettoMomma </div></div>Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-57446511026420419012014-11-04T08:41:00.000-08:002014-11-04T08:45:26.020-08:00On Dreams and Hustlin' : When hard work pays off... It's been a week since I've switched over to a stay at home - work at home momma. Which means running the business FULL TIME. Which means, I get to stay home more and be away for work less.<br />
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I have put soo much time on work for the past year. I have worked a full time job and did shoots or covered events on the weekend. Some weekdays, I would go to work from 6-2 and still work on photos for the rest of the afternoon, all while trying to juggle in laundry, groceries, playing referee between the two boys, packing lunches and making sure the kids are ready to go the next day. Then I had the opportunity to earn a bit more when I switched over jobs the summer, I had a blast and I learned so much from the experience but it required us to be away for some days in a week and back on some weekends, all while dealing with events to cover on weekends and it got me to a point where I was no longer there for my kids. I struggled.</div>
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The good thing about all this is that, there was a plan. I had a choice of sacrificing a bit of time to hustle it up, give up a bit of comfort to save money, to get me closer to the goal of being able to be there as a present parent for my kids - physically, financially, emotionally. That, or to keep working a steady job, getting part time gigs to cover up extra expenses and be left with not enough time and energy to spend on taking care of the boys. </div>
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I'm happy to say that through all the sweat and tears, we have made it. Or at least, we are closer to where we want to be. </div>
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We have lived off the basics & stayed on budget for other expenses which allowed us to save enough to get us through another few months. I am happy to say that our bills and rent have been paid off for the rest of the year and this has allowed me to let go of a full time job and instead stay at home & work at home to be there more for the bois. </div>
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There has not been a time this week that I would be close to the door and Jaeden would ask me if I had to go to work, it gives me the biggest pleasure to say that "Mommy doesn't work anymore" (of course, that's not true, I just don't have to be away when he's home.), the biggest smile I get with a big "YAY!" is simply priceless. </div>
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Hard work does pay off & this is my biggest prize. </div>
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There's still a lot of work, we're not there yet, but it feels good to know we're a step closer =)</div>
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<b><i>If you're out there hustlin' for your family or your dreams, Keep hustlin'. Go for it 10 times harder. Focus on your goal. It's not gonna be easy but I can tell you this, IT WILL PAY OFF!</i></b></div>
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<b><i> & when it does, it's gonna Feel Damn Good! </i></b></div>
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#Letsdothis, I'm cheerin' on you! </div>
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GhettoMomma</div>
Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-14996897189563834982014-10-28T08:01:00.002-07:002014-10-28T11:43:57.089-07:00Parenting : On Anger, Filtering Words and Actions. Sometimes, I envy children for being able to express themselves freely in words and in actions. When they haven't learned to filter themselves, to put a mask on.<br />
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Sometimes, I wonder why we teach them to. </div>
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It brings me back to times when my now 10 year old would come home and cry and be so angry with other kids. I would ask him what he'd like to do. He would respond saying that he would like to punch the kids in the face. He would tell me how angry he is. </div>
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I would stay with him and let him cry, let him scream his anger out, and he would. You could feel his pain and his anger with his screams, and I would be so angry at these kids that I would like to go out there myself and punch their faces. </div>
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But that's not what we do. That's not what we were taught as kids. & That's not what we're gonna teach our kids. </div>
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Yesterday, I was in the same situation as my 10 year old was. I was so angry. I wanted to hurt people for taking out hurtful words towards my child. </div>
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I screamed and cried like a 10 year old. & then I am reminded of the things that I tell my children.</div>
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Being angry won't change the situation. Being angry won't make you a better person. You are better than that. </div>
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& Let go. </div>
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I blame my parents for being the nicest people in the planet. For raising me in this way. </div>
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For teaching me to filter my words and actions. If it won't benefit or build up, they are not worth your energy and time. </div>
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I don't know if it's a good or a bad thing. But I believe in the good and I believe that people do not mean or intend to hurt other people. </div>
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& if this is what I would like to teach my children, this is how I'm ought to live by. </div>
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Struggling with a heavy heart, I'll leave you with this. </div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><b><i>“It's not our job to toughen our children up to face a cruel and heartless world. It's our job to raise children who will make the world a little less cruel and heartless.” -L.R. Knost</i></b></span></div>
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xoxo, </div>
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GhettoMomma</div>
Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-36185986744182050062014-10-19T20:56:00.001-07:002014-10-19T20:56:04.038-07:00MoneyMatters: Retail Theraphy and Guilt Free ShoppingSo you know the times when you go into a store and you see this really nice shirt and you want it and then you see the pricetag and you're like, maybe I'll hold on to it for a bit and see if I really like it. Then you walk around some more and you find more stuff that you like, oooh that purse and this shoe would look soo good with that shirt and so you grab them all and feel exactly the same thing as you did with the shirt. <div><br></div><div>& then, you get to the counter and feel sooo much guilt that you just let it all go, and leave. </div><div><br></div><div>That. That was me for the last 10 months. The first few months were the toughest.. and then you just kinda get sick of it, skip the mall altogether and you just kinda forget. </div><div><br></div><div>Yes. You forget. </div><div><br></div><div><i>My rule for guilt free spending and saving is this, <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">that you only allow yourself to spend 10% of what's left in your bank account after taking money out for the things you "need" for anything that goes into the category of "Want". </span></i></div><div><br></div><div>10 months later, I finally had enough saved to actually go Shopping - Guilt Free and I'm gonna tell you this, it feels Damn Good. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--FoLo0u2oX8/VESH0nGAbDI/AAAAAAAAAKI/lZuk5zKB0Rc/s640/blogger-image--1129008334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--FoLo0u2oX8/VESH0nGAbDI/AAAAAAAAAKI/lZuk5zKB0Rc/s640/blogger-image--1129008334.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MCGZY8TjzuA/VESH0BttozI/AAAAAAAAAKA/XgMAshw2cWA/s640/blogger-image-1805072556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MCGZY8TjzuA/VESH0BttozI/AAAAAAAAAKA/XgMAshw2cWA/s640/blogger-image-1805072556.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-NP7PlVVsm3c/VESHx_hG6dI/AAAAAAAAAJw/b8C5rR3B4Og/s640/blogger-image-851913676.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-NP7PlVVsm3c/VESHx_hG6dI/AAAAAAAAAJw/b8C5rR3B4Og/s640/blogger-image-851913676.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-yru13j7jeKk/VESHyivlz8I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/3yNstGqcZKg/s640/blogger-image--1508617787.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-yru13j7jeKk/VESHyivlz8I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/3yNstGqcZKg/s640/blogger-image--1508617787.jpg"></a></div></div></div></div></div></div><div><br></div><div><b>&its true what they say, some things are really worth the wait :) </b></div><div><br></div><div>Let's do this! </div><div>-GhettoMomma </div>Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-88131704086189566452014-10-15T20:53:00.001-07:002014-10-15T20:53:09.773-07:00Single Parenting: School Family NightJaeden had his first family night in school. <div><br></div><div>The invite said Pizza! of course we had to be there :) </div><div><br></div><div>We also had to bring a family photo for a frame making activity that will be kept in their classroom. </div><div><br></div><div>For the longest time, it was my biggest struggle. I always thought that the decision to let go of our marriage was very selfish. That it would mean that I am depriving the boys of growing up in a complete family. </div><div><br></div><div>So as much as possible, in any family event, we would make it so that the both of us (parents) can be there for the boys. </div><div><br></div><div>I think we're still trying to figure it out. But this works, for now. </div><div><br></div><div>All I know is that we share the same stand on this, whatever makes the boys happy, we're happy :) </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-WdcrQoTDmKw/VD9BIqhgPjI/AAAAAAAAAJg/bw-cvNj3yq0/s640/blogger-image--725516528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-WdcrQoTDmKw/VD9BIqhgPjI/AAAAAAAAAJg/bw-cvNj3yq0/s640/blogger-image--725516528.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Jaeden was too busy playing with his friends so we couldn't get him in a photo. He also pointed to this pretty little girl and said "I like that girl!" and couldn't stop giggling! Lol </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It was a fun night. But I'm curious to know: Single Parents, how do you handle family nights? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">xoxo, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">GhettoMomma</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-52355905037610445072014-08-28T00:28:00.001-07:002014-08-28T00:28:01.754-07:00The plastic bag.Once upon a time, this momma went to an airport with nothing but a wallet and a plastic bag. She went and asked where she could get a flight back to Edmonton from Vancity and this man looked at her and asked, "Do you have money?". <div><br></div><div>I have never felt so looked down upon in my life. But I don't blame him, It wasn't my brightest shining moment. </div><div><br></div><div>A little pissed at this man, I walked straight to the counter and swiped my credit card.</div><div><br></div><div>He had a point. I didn't have money. I was spending somebody else's money. </div><div><br></div><div>The plastic bag. </div><div>It is my biggest reminder to never go back to that time in my life where I am carelessly spending away money - what I've earned and what's not really mine - </div><div>for pleasures that I don't really need and won't really last. </div><div><br></div><div>Life is really that simple. A vacation, shopping spree and that kickass looking car all look pretty tempting. But it's not something I can afford right now. These things can wait. </div><div><br></div><div>For now, I'll stick with my plastic bag. </div><div><br></div><div>Let's do this, </div><div>GhettoMomma </div><div><br></div>Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-51565689021369565342014-08-16T22:14:00.001-07:002014-08-16T22:14:50.914-07:00Life does get better! But first.... here's Step#1.On the 1st day of year 2014, I made a decision to strive for Change. Setting Goals and laying out a game plan were the first steps.<div><br></div><div>My goals were simple really. To be able to provide the best life that I can for the boys. <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">That meant, being there for them financially, emotionally and physically. Hello, Single Parenting! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Big decisions had to be made. Should I get a second job? Will it be worth the time it takes me away from my kids? Will I be able to handle it without crashing? What's the best plan to go with? </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I knew right there that if I wanted to reach my goals, I needed a change of lifestyle. I needed to be sooo sick of where my life is at the moment and be as motivated as I can to get out of it. </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">We were at that point of having close to nothing, didn't know where to find money for rent, surviving through discounted meals at work, giving up the comforts of our big bedroom to squeeze in a smaller one. All that and $20,000 worth of debt -I am still trying to figure out where it came from. </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I cried that one weekend when my boys wanted pizza and I could not squeeze any money out of my pocket for it. </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">But here we are, halfway through the year, we are surviving. </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I am at the "healthiest" or "fittest" I've ever been in my life, I learned to face one of my biggest fears in life - the road and driving, I own a $900 #ghettocar, I have started re-building my photography business, and guess what! The boys and I can finally afford weekend pizzas, even date nights. I also start a new full time job next week which I'm really excited about. Oh, and a reduced debt of $8,000. Win! </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I'm here to share my story because if you are in the same place, I want you to know that you can do it and that life does get better. </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I think we have been super blessed to be surrounded by amazing family and friends that continue to help us, share their experiences and give advices especially with things that i know nothing about. </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><b><i>"Set goals and put together a game plan. Challenge yourself daily and watch for progress. Do your research but also more importantly, don't be afraid to ask for help." </i></b></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Thats all for tonight :) </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">This momma needs to catch up on sleep. Happy weekend! </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Let's do this, </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">GhettoMomma </font></div>Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5609112905740023841.post-80185375901978239842014-08-05T14:27:00.001-07:002014-10-28T08:31:22.255-07:00I have a confession to make, "I have failed my marriage and I am now a Single Mom."<h2>
Ohla! </h2>
A year and a half (or more) ago, life decided to throw an unexpected bomb on me. One that I didn't think I could survive. It broke me down so bad, I didn't know how to get my life back together - or if I was ever going to.<br />
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But I survived. Or rather, I'm still Surviving. Along with my two superboys, <b><i>We're Surviving. </i></b><br />
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Going through a failed marriage is never an easy thing. I strongly believed that separation and divorce should never be an option. But life happened, and as we all know, it just never turns out the way we expect them to.<br />
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Before anything else, There are two reasons I'm starting this blog.<br />
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A) The first and selfish reason is that on the 1st day of 2014, I made it a mission to make this year the year I Face my
Fears.<i> This is going to be the year that I get up my ass and just DO; To cross off my to do list from the last 100000039743292742 years, to not let fear get in the way of my goals, to stop being afraid, to get myself together, to face the things that scare me, <b>to be Brave</b></i>.<br />
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To be able to openly talk about the real story behind my seemingly perfect life has been a struggle. I'm sure a few of our family and friends have heard about it one way or the other. People who I see in a regular basis may know a little about it. For a while now, I have hidden behind a new facebook account that I share with very limited "friends". Because really, who would be so proud to tell the world that they have failed their marriage and is now a Single Mom. But here it goes, with very deep breaths, I have a confession to make. "<b>I have failed my marriage and I am now a Single Mom.</b>"<br />
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B) The second reason, which outweighs the first, is that I'm sure I'm not the first and the only one going through a failed marriage, a separation or divorce. It breaks my heart in so many ways when I hear about a family or friend that's going through the same thing, but at the same time, I understand it a little better now. I am blessed enough to be surrounded by people who have helped me get myself together and back up. I'm sure others may have different experiences, but through what I've experienced, Every single day is a Challenge. I have learned so much having had to push through<b> <i>financially, emotionally and physically as a person and as a parent. </i></b><br />
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If you're going through the same thing, I'm here to tell you that<b> It Gets Better. You will be OK. No Lie. </b><br />
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In the hopes of passing on the encouragement and support to the everyday challenges of being a single (or even non-single) parents, I'm here to share with you the challenges - the wins and fails, maybe a few stories in between.<br />
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If you've made it all the way down here, Thank you for being here with me. It's hard enough facing fears and pushing through challenges on your own, Let's get through this together.<br />
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& with very very many deep deep breaths<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">, I say </span><b style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">#letsdothis!</b></div>
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<b>- GhettoMomma</b></div>
Ghettomommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08239218943273673347noreply@blogger.com3