Tag: husband

Christmas Togetherness: Embracing Love and Laughter

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Christmas This Year

This Christmas season started off a bit heavy for me. I’ll be honest — I was sad for quite a bit, pretty much right up until our family’s Christmas Eve celebration.

That night, I sat at the end of the kitchen table and turned my head toward the living room as the littles opened their gifts. The sound that filled the house — the giggles, the pure laughter of children — there truly isn’t a better sound in the world. I teared up for a moment because that right there is exactly why I came.

I thought to myself, Mom and Daddy would be proud. They must be smiling down on us, because this—this togetherness, this joy—is all they ever wanted for us: to be together, to be present in each other’s lives, and to genuinely enjoy it.

Once the kids finished opening their gifts, it was the adults’ turn to shine as we mingled and prepared for our “Chinese Christmas” gift exchange. It was a blast — there were surprises, steals, laughter, and that wonderful mix of chaos and cheer that only family can create.

Then my sisters introduced a new game — one where you pass a gift left or right as a silly story is told, customized with everyone’s names. Each player put in a dollar, and a “Golden Ticket” prize would go to the winner, collecting the cash from everyone’s entry. It was silly and fun and full of laughter, just the way it should be.

My youngest got a few really thoughtful gifts this year, and at one point, he realized he only has two more years left of being “one of the kids.” That hit me — it made me pause and reflect. I have seven kids I call my own: five I gave birth to and two girls I’ve loved like my own for years. Four of them now have incredible partners — kind, caring, compassionate individuals who truly see who my children are and love them, flaws and all.

Even with a few behind-the-scenes hiccups (let’s just say there was a grocery order debacle, a brief moment of running out of gas, and yes, my husband losing his job), it was still a blessed Christmas.

Because at the end of the day, being surrounded by love, laughter, and the people who matter most — that’s what Christmas is all about.

Why Emotional Labor Deserves Recognition

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

The Cost of Being Unpaid

I often feel invisible. Not unseen in a dramatic way—but quietly, persistently taken for granted.

My empathy, my sympathy, my knowledge, and the countless things I offer other human beings move through the world without acknowledgment. I do not get paid to cook nourishing meals. I do not earn a wage for listening while someone vents, or for offering advice, or for helping untangle problems that aren’t mine. There is no paycheck for being available, for showing up emotionally, for holding space.

And yet, these things take time. They take energy. They take experience.

I have knowledge. I have lived enough life to understand nuance, to adapt, to learn quickly, to respond with compassion and clarity. I share all of it freely—especially with family. I give because I care, because connection matters to me, because helping feels natural. But because there is no monetary value attached to my time, no salary or hourly rate, it often feels as though my worth is somehow less.

Less than my sisters.
Less than anyone who earns money doing things.

I know—logically—that my skills have value. I know that emotional intelligence, adaptability, and lived experience are not insignificant. But where do they fit on a wage scale? What number do you assign to being the person others rely on? Why does value seem to exist only when it can be measured in dollars?

If I stopped doing all the things I normally do—if I were no longer available, no longer the listener, the helper, the cook, the steady presence—what then? Would the absence finally make the value visible? Or would it simply be filled by someone else, still unpaid, still unacknowledged?

Americans are relentlessly committed to monetizing every moment. A hobby can’t just be enjoyable—it has to become a side hustle. Creativity must be productive. Passion must be profitable. But a hobby stops being fun the moment it becomes a have to instead of a want to. When joy is turned into obligation, something essential is lost.

So I keep circling back to the same painful question:
If I am not valuable because I do not earn money… then what does that say about all the work that keeps people going but never appears on a balance sheet?

Maybe the problem isn’t my worth.
Maybe the problem is a system that only recognizes value when it can be billed, sold, or taxed.

And maybe being unpaid does not mean being unworthy—no matter how often the world makes it feel that way.

Embracing Imperfection: Finding Grace in Struggle

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

I’m Letting You in on a Little Secret…

I’m going to let you guys in on a little secret: I do not have all of my ducks in a row!

Shocking, right? I know a little bit (or maybe a whole lot) about a great deal of things — cooking, baking, sautéing, homemaking, making money stretch — you name it. I’ve built real skills over the years, and I take pride in them. But even with all that knowledge, I still have those days. The ones that make me want to crawl back into bed and pull the covers over my head. The days that drag on so long and hard that I catch myself wishing the time away.

Yes, I know how to make money work for me, but I’ll be honest — once the needs are covered, I still struggle. Do I treat myself to something nice? Save it for later? Spend it on my kids? The internal debate is real.

I live with PTSD and anxiety. I get “blue” days — not what I’d call depression, but heavy enough that I feel it in my bones. I’ve seen true depression up close — in my children, in my ex-husband, in others I love — and it has taught me a lot about compassion, patience, and grace.

Some days, I’m full of energy and optimism, ready to take on the world. And other days… I’m lucky if I can get supper cooked. And that’s okay. I’ve learned that even with all my knowledge — about money, about mental health, about coping — some days just aren’t it.

On those days, I have to remind myself: give yourself grace. Say, “Enough. Be still. Rest.” You don’t have to do it all — especially today.

But here’s the tricky part: rest can easily turn into avoidance if we’re not careful. It’s important to recognize what’s going on and act accordingly. Listen to your instincts. Listen to your body. Rest when you need to — but also, when it’s time, get up and move.

Take the shower. Bake the bread. Step outside and touch grass.

We’re all learning in this life — every second, every day. We just have to keep showing up.

And if you ever feel like you fell short or owe someone an apology — do it, mean it, and move on. Know better, do better. Every. Single. Day.

Love and light,
💛 Julie

Surviving Overwhelm: Mental Health Tips for Today

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Coping With Mental Health in Trying Times: Surviving the Storm When Everything Feels Overwhelming

There are moments in life when it feels like the weight of the world is pressing down on you. The kind of moments where everything seems to be stacking up—the bills are piling high, school is back in session, and the news feels like a relentless wave of tragedy. The pressure builds, leaving you running on fumes, emotionally drained, and unsure of how much more you can take.

Right now, many of us are living through a perfect storm of challenges. The reality of rising costs, personal responsibilities, and the heavy weight of constant bad news can leave you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and even numb. If you feel like you’re just taking it day by day, doing your best to survive, you’re not alone. And while these times are undeniably difficult, there are ways to cope, find balance, and regain a sense of peace. Here are some strategies to help you navigate the mental strain of living through these trying times in America.

1. Acknowledge the Reality of What You’re Feeling

One of the hardest parts of mental strain is the guilt that often comes with it. We’ve been conditioned to push through, to “keep going” no matter what. But it’s okay to not be okay. When life is overwhelming, acknowledging your feelings is the first step toward healing. Whether you’re angry, scared, numb, or sad, allow yourself the space to sit with those emotions without judgment. You don’t have to be “better” or “stronger” every single moment.

When you name your emotions, you take the first step toward regaining control. Feeling overwhelmed is a natural response to these challenging times, but it doesn’t define you. By validating your emotions, you allow yourself permission to cope, heal, and move forward.

2. Practice Radical Self-Care (Yes, It’s Important!)

Self-care has become a buzzword in recent years, but it’s not just about face masks and bubble baths—it’s about setting boundaries and prioritizing your mental and physical health. In times of stress, it’s easy to forget to take care of yourself, but the reality is that without a solid foundation, it’s harder to weather the storms of life.

Start with small, achievable acts of self-care that nourish your body and mind. This could mean:

  • Sleep: Rest is non-negotiable. When you’re running on empty, a solid night’s sleep is essential for emotional and mental recovery.
  • Nutrition: Eat nourishing foods that give your body the energy it needs to tackle the day, even if it’s just a balanced snack.
  • Movement: Whether it’s a walk, yoga, or a dance party in your living room, moving your body can release stress and elevate your mood.
  • Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness or meditation, even if it’s just five minutes of deep breathing. The present moment is all we have, and grounding yourself can offer some much-needed relief.

3. Limit Your Media Consumption

It can feel like the world is burning down when you’re constantly glued to the news. From national tragedies to political chaos, the media can feel overwhelming and relentless. While staying informed is important, there’s a fine line between being aware and being consumed by it.

Consider setting boundaries on how much news you consume daily, and make time for things that uplift you. Try a digital detox—take a day off from social media, limit your news intake, and focus on things that bring you joy, whether that’s reading a book, spending time with loved ones, or enjoying nature.

4. Reevaluate Your Priorities

When life feels like it’s in constant crisis mode, it’s easy to get caught up in the demands of work, school, finances, and responsibilities. But sometimes, it’s important to step back and ask yourself: What’s really important right now?

  • Can you delegate some tasks to make life a little less overwhelming?
  • Are there things you can let go of, even temporarily, to give yourself space to breathe?
  • Do you have the energy to take on everything on your plate right now, or is it okay to ask for help?

Setting boundaries around your time and energy is not only okay—it’s necessary. Whether it’s saying “no” to an extra project at work or asking a friend or family member for help with errands, reclaiming your personal time is essential for mental health.

5. Find Support in Your Community

You don’t have to go through tough times alone. Whether it’s a trusted friend, a support group, or a therapist, talking about your feelings can help you feel seen, heard, and less isolated. Sharing the burden with others, even if it’s just a text or a phone call, can make a world of difference.

If you’re not already, consider reaching out to a mental health professional. Therapists and counselors are trained to help you navigate difficult emotions and offer tools for coping. Therapy isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a way to strengthen your resilience and build healthy coping mechanisms for the future.

6. Focus on What You Can Control

In times of chaos, focusing on the things you can control helps to ground you. You may not be able to change the headlines or the world’s circumstances, but you can take control of how you respond.

Maybe that means focusing on your daily routine, budgeting your finances, or creating small, achievable goals. When things feel out of control, taking one step at a time toward something you can manage brings back a sense of agency.

7. Find Purpose in the Chaos

It’s easy to feel lost and overwhelmed when things are falling apart around you. But sometimes, finding a sense of purpose can bring clarity. This might mean reconnecting with your passions, getting involved in your community, or finding new ways to help others.

When we’re able to focus on something larger than ourselves, it can put the stresses of life into perspective. Helping others or contributing to a cause can also bring a sense of fulfillment and connection that’s hard to find in times of isolation.

8. Remember, You’re Not Alone

Living in America right now can feel uniquely stressful—whether it’s economic struggles, political tensions, or social upheaval, the strain can feel heavy. But in these moments, remember: You are not alone. Millions of people are navigating these same challenges, even if it doesn’t always feel like it. It’s okay to lean on others, to ask for help, and to give yourself the grace you need to heal.

In these tough times, survival might look different for each of us. It might mean focusing on day-to-day coping strategies, seeking therapy, or simply taking a break from the news. Whatever your journey looks like, remember that it’s okay to not have all the answers, and it’s okay to take things one step at a time.

Conclusion: Keep Going, One Day at a Time

The light at the end of the tunnel may seem dim right now, but it is there, even if it’s hard to see. Each day you keep going is a victory. You’re doing your best, and that’s all you can do. Be kind to yourself. Take small steps to care for your mental health, and remember that it’s okay to seek support. In trying times, surviving isn’t just about enduring—it’s about finding ways to thrive, no matter how small those steps may seem.

If you’re struggling, know that there is help, and there is hope. Keep pushing forward, and know that brighter days are ahead.

love and light y’all!!!

Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Secure Your Family’s Future

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

💪 Building My Business, Building My Purpose

When I left teaching, I knew I wasn’t walking away from helping people—I was just searching for a new way to do it. For me, that path revealed itself after experiencing several painful losses in my own life. Each time, I watched how unprepared families were—emotionally, financially, and practically—for the death of their loved ones.

It left me asking one question over and over:

How could something so inevitable catch so many of us off guard?

Enter Financial Services 💰

That’s when financial services came into my life. Life insurance, securities, and even PLPP (Pre-Paid Legal Plans)—things I never really thought about before—suddenly became more than “policies” or “products.”

They became tools to protect families. They became the way I could help others in some of their hardest moments.

And I’ll be honest—at first, I thought:

“Well, even if this business doesn’t take off, at least the education is free, and my family will be protected.”

But the deeper I went, the more I realized this wasn’t just about me. This was about helping families sleep better at night, knowing they wouldn’t be left scrambling, arguing, or making impossible decisions in the middle of grief.

I’ve Been There

I know what it’s like when you lose a parent or a loved one and suddenly you’re left making decisions you never thought you’d have to make.

  • Who gets Grandma’s cookbooks?
  • What about Mom’s jewelry?
  • How do you cover the bills when your whole world has just been turned upside down?

Everyone means well, but emotions run high, and without a plan in place, chaos often takes over.

That’s why I believe so strongly in what I do. This business is about more than money—though yes, it helps to earn an income while building a career.

What matters even more is the peace of mind that comes from knowing I can help someone else avoid that pain and confusion.

Don’t Wait ⏰

If there’s one message I want to get across, it’s this: don’t wait.

  • Don’t wait to have a power of attorney drawn up.
  • Don’t wait to write your will.
  • Don’t wait to protect your family with life insurance or build your future with smart investments.

These conversations are tough, but they are necessary.

Where to Start

Start with a financial needs analysis. Sit down with a financial planner or coach—someone who will listen, guide, and help you see where your money is actually going.

From there, create a budget that doesn’t just cover today but also secures tomorrow. Whether it’s:

  • Saving for retirement
  • Planning for travel
  • Ensuring your paycheck lasts beyond a few days

…you can make your money serve you—instead of you always serving it.

My Mission

This is more than a business to me. It’s my mission.

If even one family is spared the heartache of being unprepared because of the work I do, then I know I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be.

👉 Ready to take the first step? Let’s sit down for a financial needs analysis and create a plan that protects your family and builds your future.

📩 Reach out today and let’s get started. 254-677-7510 text or voicemail