Monday mornings after a cold front…

November 4, 2024November 4, 2024 by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

It’s that time of year again…seasons change, and allergies and sinus problems kick up. Today it was my teen who is suffering again with allergy and sinus stuff that is making his stomach hurt and causing nausea and vomiting. Keep reading for some tips and tricks that we use to help heal when the seasonal changes get the best of us. Most importantly know that it is perfectly ok to REST!! Yes, even you, Mom!! ❤

Dealing with Allergies, Colds, and Coughs at Home: Remedies and Tips

As the seasons change, many of us find ourselves battling allergies, colds, and pesky coughs. While it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for persistent symptoms, there are plenty of at-home remedies and strategies to help manage discomfort and speed up recovery. Here’s how to create a comforting environment for your household and find relief from those annoying symptoms.

1. Stay Hydrated

Hydration is Key
When you’re feeling under the weather, staying hydrated is crucial. Fluids help thin mucus and keep your throat moist. Here are some great options:

Water: Always a top choice.
Gatorade or Liquid IV: These electrolyte drinks can be especially helpful if you’re feeling fatigued or dehydrated. They provide essential minerals and hydration without added caffeine or excessive sugar.

2. Honey and Lemon

A Soothing Duo
Honey has natural antibacterial properties, while lemon is rich in vitamin C. This combination can help soothe a sore throat and ease coughing.

DIY Recipe:

Mix 1 tablespoon of honey with the juice of half a lemon in warm water.
Sip slowly for relief.

3. Hot Toddy for Adults

A Classic Comfort Drink
This warm beverage can help you relax and may provide some symptom relief, especially before bedtime.

Ingredients:

1 cup hot water
1 ounce whiskey (optional)
1 tablespoon honey
Juice of half a lemon
A pinch of cinnamon or cloves

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a mug and stir well. Enjoy while warm.

4. Rest and Relaxation

Listen to Your Body
When fighting off an illness, don’t underestimate the power of rest. Make your environment cozy with blankets and pillows, and allow yourself to nap or simply unwind. Your body needs this time to heal.

5. Herbal Teas

Nature’s Remedies
Herbal teas can provide soothing relief for your throat and help with hydration. Consider:

Peppermint tea: Helps with congestion.
Chamomile tea: Great for relaxation and soothing the throat.
Ginger tea: Anti-inflammatory properties can ease symptoms.

6. Steam Inhalation

Breathe Easy
Inhaling steam can help relieve congestion and soothe irritated nasal passages.

How to do it:

Fill a bowl with hot water, add a few drops of essential oil (like eucalyptus or peppermint), and lean over it with a towel covering your head. Breathe deeply for about 10-15 minutes.

7. Essential Oils

Aromatherapy for Relief
Using a diffuser with essential oils can create a calming atmosphere while potentially helping with respiratory symptoms. Oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender can be particularly soothing.

8. Humidifiers

Add Moisture to the Air
Using a humidifier in your home can help keep your nasal passages moist, especially during dry seasons. This can alleviate coughing and congestion.

9. Over-the-Counter Supplements

Support Your Immune System
While it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, some options may help boost your immune response:

Vitamin C: Supports immune health.
Zinc: May reduce the duration of colds.
Elderberry syrup: Known for its immune-boosting properties.

Conclusion

Dealing with allergies, colds, and coughs can be challenging, but with these at-home remedies and tips, you can create a supportive environment for recovery. Remember to stay hydrated, rest when needed, and try some of these soothing remedies to help manage your symptoms. Here’s to a healthier, more comfortable home!

All Hallow’s Eve…Halloween. Mom’s Birthday

October 31, 2024 by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Halloween in America

Halloween, celebrated on October 31st, has roots that trace back to ancient Celtic festivals, particularly the Gaelic festival of Samhain. This festival marked the end of the harvest season and the onset of winter, a time when it was believed that the boundary between the living and the dead was blurred. Celts would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off roaming spirits.

When Irish immigrants brought these traditions to America in the 19th century, Halloween began to take shape as we know it today. The blend of different cultures, along with the influence of the burgeoning American celebration of harvest festivals, transformed Halloween into a community-centered holiday. By the early 20th century, it evolved into a more family-friendly event, characterized by activities like trick-or-treating, costume parties, and spooky decorations.

As the holiday gained popularity, it became an occasion for fun rather than fear. The spooky tales and ghost stories that accompanied Halloween became a way to entertain and engage, ensuring that the eerie spirit of the holiday remained intact.

A Spooky Story: The Phantom of Willow Creek

In the small town of Willow Creek, tales of a ghostly figure wandering the woods after dark have circulated for generations. Legend has it that the spirit belongs to a young woman named Eliza, who mysteriously disappeared on Halloween night over a century ago.

Eliza was known for her beauty and kindness, often helping those in need. On that fateful night, she was seen heading into the woods to gather firewood for the local orphanage. Hours passed, and she never returned. Search parties scoured the forest, but no trace of her was found. Locals believed she had encountered a witch who cursed her to roam the woods for eternity.

Every year on Halloween, the townsfolk would hear whispers in the wind and see a flickering light among the trees. Those brave enough to venture into the woods claimed to have seen Eliza’s ghost, dressed in a flowing white gown, her eyes filled with sorrow. Many who encountered her said they felt a chill, as if the very essence of winter had descended upon them.

To this day, on Halloween night, residents leave candles in their windows, hoping to guide Eliza’s spirit back home, even if just for one night.

A Legend more local to me: Goatman

The story of the Goatman in Cleburne, Texas, is a local legend that has intrigued and terrified residents for years. This urban legend typically describes a creature that is part human and part goat, often depicted with the body of a man and the head of a goat, and is said to roam the woods near Cleburne.

The Legend

According to various accounts, the Goatman is said to have originated from a tragic incident involving a goat farmer. Some versions claim he was a hermit who lived in the woods, known for his affinity with goats. After a series of unfortunate events—like the loss of his livestock or a betrayal by the townspeople—he transformed into the Goatman, seeking vengeance on those who wronged him.

Sightings of the Goatman often describe a hulking figure moving through the shadows, with glowing eyes and a haunting presence. Reports frequently mention eerie sounds, like screams or strange noises, echoing through the night, adding to the legend’s chilling atmosphere.

The Location

Cleburne’s woods and surrounding areas, especially near Lake Pat Cleburne, are often cited as hotspots for sightings. Locals claim that the Goatman is more active during full moons, and tales of encounters have circulated at campfires and local gatherings for generations.

Community Impact

The Goatman legend has had a unique impact on the Cleburne community. It has inspired local lore, ghost tours, and even Halloween events. Residents often share their own experiences or the stories passed down from older generations, ensuring that the tale continues to be a topic of conversation.

While the Goatman may be a figure of local folklore, it serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of stories that can be found in small towns, blending history, tragedy, and the supernatural.

G is for GRIEF

October 14, 2024 by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Navigating the Personal Journey of Loss

Grief is a profound, often overwhelming experience that touches all of our lives at some point. It’s a deeply personal journey that can emerge from various types of loss—whether the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or even the loss of a dream or opportunity. Understanding grief as a lifelong process rather than a linear event can help us navigate its complexities with compassion for ourselves and others.

The Nature of Grief

Grief is not just an emotion; it encompasses a range of feelings, thoughts, and reactions. It can manifest as sadness, anger, confusion, guilt, and even relief. Each person experiences grief differently, influenced by their personality, life experiences, and the nature of the loss.

A Personal Journey

One of the most critical aspects of grief is its deeply personal nature. While there are common stages of grief—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—each individual traverses these stages in their own way and at their own pace. There’s no right or wrong way to grieve; there’s only your way.

Cultural Influences: Cultural backgrounds can shape how we express grief. Some cultures openly mourn, while others may emphasize stoicism. Understanding these differences is vital in supporting those around us.
Support Systems: The presence or absence of a supportive network can significantly impact the grieving process. Friends, family, and even professionals can provide comfort, yet the way we choose to engage with that support is uniquely ours.

Grief as a Lifelong Process

Many people may expect grief to resolve after a certain period, but it often lingers, evolving over time. This understanding can be liberating; it acknowledges that grief doesn’t have a strict timeline and allows for ongoing healing.

Anniversaries and Milestones: Significant dates, like birthdays or anniversaries, can reignite feelings of grief. This resurgence is a natural part of the process and can remind us of the love we still hold for those we’ve lost.
Finding New Meanings: As time passes, the way we relate to our grief may change. We may find ways to honor our loved ones, celebrate their lives, and integrate their memory into our own.

The Greater the Grief, the Greater the Love

One of the most profound truths about grief is that it reflects the depth of our love. The pain we feel is a testament to the bonds we shared. This connection is what makes the journey of grief so significant and transformative.

Embracing Love: Rather than shying away from grief, embracing it can be a way to honor our relationships. Acknowledge the love that underlies the sorrow; it’s this love that shapes our memories and influences who we are.
Creating Legacy: Finding ways to celebrate the life of the person we’ve lost can help channel our grief into something meaningful. This could be through storytelling, creating art, or participating in activities they loved.

Coping with Grief

As we navigate the personal journey of grief, it’s essential to equip ourselves with tools for coping. Here are some strategies that may help:

Allow Yourself to Feel: Give yourself permission to experience all emotions that arise without judgment. Grief is not something to “get over” but something to honor.
Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Whether through friends, family, or support groups, connecting with others who understand can be immensely comforting.
Express Yourself: Writing, art, and other forms of expression can provide an outlet for your feelings. Journaling about your experience can help you process your emotions.
Practice Self-Care: Grieving can be exhausting. Prioritize self-care through rest, nutrition, and activities that bring you joy or solace.
Consider Professional Help: If grief feels overwhelming, seeking the guidance of a therapist can provide valuable support and coping strategies.

That’s not all folks:

Grief is a complex and deeply personal journey that requires patience and compassion. It is a lifelong process, interwoven with love and memory. Acknowledging that the greater the grief, the greater the love can help us embrace our experiences, honor those we’ve lost, and ultimately find a way to carry their legacy forward in our lives. Remember, you are not alone in this journey; your path is uniquely yours, and it’s okay to take the time you need to heal.

The personal part:

Keeping all of the above in mind, I have become very familiar with grief. It is a personal companion and has been with me since I was 11 years old. My only living grandparent died, my Granny, she was just the best towards me. And she impacted my life in so many ways, from “not sweeping through the middle” to “I love you a bushel and a peck,” helping me count to 100, taking rides through the countryside and everything in between. This is not to discount the losses that followed. It just compounds the grief; I still miss them and all of my other loved ones who are no longer here with me. The grief can be heavy some days. In the beginning, the initial shock, it is kind of easy. Easy, in that no one expects much from you in the beginning. You have the sympathy of everyone around you for your loss, but then it fades. You have to continue to go to work, do laundry, grocery shop, and with each of these tasks you are still very aware that the world you knew has changed forever. But the world keeps spinning even while you are in the throes of grief, life goes on, work still has to be done, bills paid. The routine soothes you a little bit, trying to keep things “normal” while you process what it is that has this grip on you.

The holidays are always the hardest after a loss. Whether it be a birthday, anniversary or the holiday season following Halloween, they can all be hard. You can honor your loved ones and keep the same traditions, it may feel hollow at first, but there will be new meaning in them. This year I am not only facing the holidays without my parents but without 2 members of my village that always helped to pull me back from the brink when things got rough. I didn’t expect to have to traverse life and grief in losing friends that had become family. Losing the sister from another mister, my daily check in text or call, Audra could make me absolutely crazy with some of her theories but at our hearts we both enjoyed food and flavors and cultures and we raised our babies together. We made last minute poodle skirts together. She helped me expand my horizons. We valued critical thinking and doing what’s best for ourselves even if others didn’t understand. She helped me to embrace who I am. Now our youngest babies are freshmen in high school and she isn’t here to navigate this part. Some days are better than others and I think of her adult children each day. I think of her husband, left behind with a teen boy to raise without his mom. I digress. These things are all part of my daily existence.

But in learning to let go, it is especially poignant in the fall. In the fall, trees lose their leaves, as they continue to grow. They become a shell of themselves, but we know that in the spring they sprout new leaves. I am taking a lesson from the trees this year. I am going to let go of things, it is hard work, but it is important work. I am going to let go of the past. I am going to cherish memories of loved ones and prepare myself to move forward in this new existence. I will remember each of them in different ways and on different days, but in letting go of how I thought life would be, I am freeing myself of the immense weight that grief can bear down on me. I will keep old traditions that still serve me and maybe create new ones to celebrate this new chapter of life. I didn’t plan for this journey of grief; I don’t think you can. What you can do is appreciate the time that you have and make the minutes count.

Love and light y’all, it can get dark out there.

Advocacy for children

October 4, 2024 by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Debate amateur turned Warrior Mom

I wasn’t a fighter, at least not really. In high school, I could argue my point well, and sometimes I was wrong, but I didn’t seek confrontation. I wanted to fit in and be accepted; I loved people. However, becoming a mother shifted my perspective dramatically. Watching my children struggle in school opened my eyes and transformed me into a warrior for their needs. I will leave out some of the finer details in dealing with various school districts, but the first ARD meeting I had the experience of sitting in on was the catalyst for changing how I fought for my children and becoming active in making sure they were able to succeed despite their struggles.

Initially, my journey began with my oldest son and daughter, who faced challenges with speech. As I navigated the complexities of early childhood education, I quickly realized that these struggles weren’t merely developmental; they were indicators of larger issues at play. It wasn’t until my second child was diagnosed with ADHD (inattentive type) and dyslexia that I truly understood the importance of advocacy. According to the CDC, around 6.1 million children in the U.S. have been diagnosed with ADHD, while estimates suggest that about 1 in 5 students has some form of learning disability, including dyslexia. These numbers are a stark reminder of how common these challenges are, yet navigating the school system to get the necessary support can often feel like an uphill battle.

As I continued to educate myself, my third child was diagnosed with a range of issues that underscored the importance of understanding and advocacy. I learned that Autism Spectrum Disorder affects approximately 1 in 36 children in the U.S., a statistic that has prompted schools to reevaluate their support structures. With every diagnosis, I became more determined to fight for my children’s right to an equitable education.

The climate of our schools, while designed to support all students, can inadvertently create environments rife with anxiety, particularly for children with unique needs. My fourth and fifth children seemed to fare better academically, yet I couldn’t ignore the subtle signs of stress they exhibited. The pressures of fitting into a rigid system can manifest in ways that aren’t immediately obvious, making advocacy all the more crucial.

To effectively advocate for my children within the Texas school system, I learned to ask the right questions and make informed requests. The first step in securing the appropriate support is to pursue a comprehensive evaluation. Parents should request a meeting with the school’s special education team to discuss concerns and request a Full Individual Evaluation (FIE). In Texas, this evaluation should include assessments of cognitive abilities, academic achievement, and social-emotional functioning.

When advocating for supports, it’s vital to be specific. For my children, I sought accommodations like extended time on tests, individualized reading programs, and access to assistive technology. Schools in Texas are required to provide a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) to all students, and this includes tailored supports for those with disabilities. I learned to request services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, both of which outline the rights of students with disabilities and their need for accommodations.

In meetings, I found it helpful to present documented evidence of my children’s struggles, including report cards, assessments, and even journal entries that captured their emotional experiences. Armed with this information, I could make a compelling case for the interventions they needed.

Advocating for children with ADHD, dyslexia, and autism means not only ensuring they receive necessary accommodations but also fostering a supportive environment that recognizes their strengths. It’s about collaborating with educators, understanding the resources available, and staying informed about changes in educational policy. By becoming a proactive and informed advocate, I transformed my initial desire to fit in into a powerful mission to ensure my children—and others like them—received the education and support they deserved.

The fight for our children’s rights in the school system may not come naturally to many parents, but it is a battle worth fighting. Through collaboration, persistence, and a deep understanding of their needs, we can pave the way for our children to thrive academically and emotionally, regardless of their challenges. In the end, it’s about creating an inclusive environment where every child feels valued and capable of success.

More about me and where I am headed…

October 3, 2024 by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Finding Opportunity Amid Grief and Financial Concerns

Life has a way of throwing curveballs when we least expect it. Lately, I’ve been navigating a landscape filled with grief and financial uncertainties. It’s a heavy load, and some days it feels overwhelming. But through this challenging period, I’ve started to explore new avenues to not only cope but to thrive.

Embracing Grief and Finding Strength

Grief can be a solitary journey, yet it can also be a catalyst for growth. As I process my feelings of the loss of both people and a career that I worked really hard to get into, I’ve realized the importance of channeling my energy into productive outlets. Writing has become my refuge—a way to express what I’m going through and connect with others who may feel the same.

Financial Concerns: A Wake-Up Call

Alongside my emotional struggles, financial concerns have crept in. Unexpected expenses and a tightening budget have pushed me to rethink my income sources. In this age of digital opportunities, I’ve discovered that there are several ways to generate income that align with my passions and skills.

Diving into Blogging and Copywriting

One avenue I’ve explored is blogging. Sharing my experiences not only helps me process my grief, but it also allows me to connect with a broader audience. Through my blog, I’m able to share insights, stories, and resources that others might find valuable.

I’m also diving into copywriting. The ability to craft compelling narratives and persuasive content can be a lucrative skill, especially as businesses are constantly looking for fresh ways to engage their audiences.

Proofreading: A Detail-Oriented Path

With an eye for detail, proofreading has become another potential income stream. Many writers and businesses seek out proofreaders to polish their work, and I’ve found that this skill can be both rewarding and flexible.

Cooking Up a New Project: A Cookbook

In addition to writing, I’ve always had a passion for cooking. As I’ve spent more time in the kitchen, I’ve been inspired to create a cookbook. Combining personal stories with recipes can be a beautiful way to share my journey and offer something meaningful to others.

Partnering with Primerica

Finally, I’ve recently partnered with Primerica, a company that offers financial services and education. This opportunity not only aligns with my goal of improving my financial literacy but also allows me to help others in their financial journeys. It’s a fulfilling way to turn my financial concerns into proactive solutions.

Connecting with Amazon Affiliate Links

As I embark on these ventures, I’ve also started utilizing Amazon affiliate links on my blog. Whether I’m sharing my favorite kitchen gadgets for the cookbook or recommending books that have helped me through tough times, this can be a great way to earn some extra income while providing value to my readers.

Moving Forward

While grief and financial worries can feel consuming, I’ve found that by leaning into my passions and exploring new income streams, I can create a brighter path forward. Each step—whether it’s blogging, copywriting, or working on my cookbook—feels like a small victory. I’m learning to embrace this journey, and I hope to inspire others to find their own paths through adversity.

If you’re interested in supporting my journey or exploring some of my recommended products, check out the links that I will be posting on my blog. There is also an Etsy shop, TikTok and Instagram pages for content related to mental health and navigating life. Look for Mothersenseshop on social media and of course I will be getting all of the links posted here soon. Together, we can maneuver through these challenges and discover new opportunities for growth. As always, love and light y’all, we can do this!

Tag: motherhood