Friday Four: Welcoming a Baby While Starting a Business: How to Do It

By, Leslie Campos of Wellparents.com

Being a business owner means working through various challenges and issues. But operating a startup when welcoming a baby into the world comes with a unique set of difficulties. In fact, most entrepreneurs who experienced this say that having a baby and starting a business simultaneously is daunting — but entirely doable.

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Founders who launched a business while welcoming a baby are usually committed to creating company cultures where everyone can enjoy family-friendly benefits like paid leave and flex time. Although it’s definitely not an easy feat, both can be done. Read on to find not just four but five tips from QC Supermom on how to balance these two unique experiences.

1.Register Your Business

If you have yet to do so, it’s critical to determine the type of business you’ll be running, whether it’s a sole proprietorship or a partnership, but many small business owners opt to form a limited liability company (LLC). As an LLC, not only are your personal assets protected, but there are tax advantages, and less paperwork is required. By visiting a formation service’s web page, you’ll save a lot by not having to pay an expensive attorney to complete the process. You’ll also learn all you need to know about starting a new business.

2.Create a Schedule

Although some days are less productive than you would like, it’s essential to take advantage of your peak energy hours. Whether you’re a morning person or a night owl, you should learn to carry out the most critical tasks during the period you’re most active. Creating a schedule can also help tremendously, especially since both the baby and the business are relatively new things you need to get used to. Establish work hours, time to spend with your partner, and alone time. By setting up a schedule, you’ll be able to balance the needs of your newborn and also take care of your venture.

3. Keep Perspective

​An unexpected benefit of welcoming a new baby while starting a business is how easy you’ll find it to let things go. Starting a family or adding to it gives you a fresh and incredible perspective on what really matters. You won’t stress about having every answer, closing every lead, or the day-to-day setbacks that come from being your own boss and a new parent. Stay focused on the bigger picture, and don’t beat yourself up over small mistakes or things you believe you have to do. Simply stay attentive to your needs and your baby’s while doing your best for your business.

4.Be Flexible

​You don’t know how it is to have a baby at home until you have it. A schedule will help you break your days into doable steps, but you also need to be quite flexible throughout the day. The exhaustion and chaos that comes with welcoming a new baby into the family should be put out by naps and alone time that allow you to recharge, maintain your mental and physical health, and relax.

Besides taking a nap when you’re feeling tired, wearing comfortable clothes can also help you feel more relaxed in your new double role as a mom and business owner. A pair of leggings, cozy maternity tees, and oversized sweaters can help you feel comfortable yet presentable enough to work on your business from home.

BONUS: Say Yes to Help

Friends and family members will probably want to support you after the baby arrives. Don’t refuse their help, especially since you also have a business to run. Relying on friends and family for postpartum support gives you a chance to breathe more easily and also shows you that you are loved and cared for.

If your family lives far away or cannot help you with your baby, consider hiring an experienced babysitter. You can also use various smart technologies you set up in the baby’s room to keep an eye on them while you work in your home office. It’s essential to learn to outsource both in everyday life and in business.

The Bottom Line

Times have changed. The more moms dare to start and run a business, the more people realize that they don’t have to choose between having a baby and launching a startup. Thanks to numerous resources online like the tips above, you can even learn how to balance the two daily.

The QC Supermom blog is your source for combined mom-and-entrepreneur wisdom. Follow Us today for more informational topics!

Win Tickets to Marvel Universe Live in Charlotte

Marvel Universe Live! is coming to Charlotte, NC. January 25-27!  Take the entire family to the Spectrum Center for a fun event featuring your favorite super heroes.

Win a family 4-pack of tickets by entering the giveaway!! CLICK one (or all) for your entry by following us on Facebook , Instagram or Twitter

Marvel fans, assemble for this live, legendary battle to defend the universe from evil. The Avengers, the Guardians of the Galaxy and Spider-Man join forces with Doctor Strange, master of the mystic arts, in a race against time to recover the Wand of Watoomb before it falls into Loki’s hands in this all-new, spectacular arena stunt show.

Produced by Feld Entertainment, Marvel Universe LIVE! is performing at Spectrum Center from Friday, January 25 to Sunday, January 27 for six performances.

Star-Lord, Gamora, Rocket, Groot and Drax make their live production debut bringing their courage and misfit wit to Marvel Universe LIVE! Alongside Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Black Panther, Hulk, Black Widow, Wasp and Iron Fist, the Guardians of the Galaxy help fight the scheming, menacing and loathsome villains Loki, Yondu and Green Goblin. Audiences will join in the quest that sparks new feuds with old foes, pitting student against mentor, sister against sister and brother against brother.

Witness cutting-edge special effects, aerial maneuvers, pyrotechnics, martial arts, motorcycle stunts and vast 3D video projection mapping in this completely new thrilling adventure. Fans of all ages will be immersed in the Marvel Universe and experience it all with their family…LIVE!

Tickets for Marvel Universe LIVE! start at $20. All seats are reserved, and tickets are available at www.Ticketmaster.com or by calling (800) 745-3000. For group rates and information, reach out to All About Tix by calling (704) 919-0526.

To discover more about Marvel Universe LIVE!, go to http://www.marveluniverselive.com, or visit the social media channels:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MarvelOnTour
Twitter: @MarvelOnTour
YouTube: www.youtube.com/MarvelOnTour
Instagram: @MarvelOnTour 

Please follow and like us: on Facebook

Friday Four-Homeschooling In N.C.; Startup 101

87,978 students are homeschooled in North Carolina! Yes, my friends. homeschooling in is on the rise. We don’t stop at the basic curriculum because the world is our classroom!

GENERAL FACTS, STATISTICS, AND TRENDS

  • There are over 2.3 million homeschool students in the United States.  That is, there were an estimated 2.3 million in spring 2016, and this was up from one estimate of about 2 million home-educated children (in grades K to 12) during the spring of 2010 in the United States (Ray, 2011). It appears the homeschool population is continuing to grow (at an estimated 2% to 8% per annum over the past few years).
  • Homeschooling – that is, parent-led home-based education; home education – is an age-old traditional educational practice that a decade ago appeared to be cutting-edge and “alternative” but is now bordering on “mainstream” in the United States. It may be the fastest-growing form of education in the United States. Home-based education has also been growing around the world in many other nations (e.g., Australia, Canada, France, Hungary, Japan, Kenya, Russia, Mexico, South Korea, Thailand, and the United Kingdom).
  • A demographically wide variety of people homeschool – these are atheists, Christians, and Mormons; conservatives, libertarians, and liberals; low-, middle-, and high-income families; black, Hispanic, and white; parents with Ph.D.s, GEDs, and no high-school diplomas. One study shows that 32 percent of homeschool students are Black, Asian, Hispanic, and others (i.e., not White/non-Hispanic) (Noel, Stark, & Redford, 2013).
  • Families engaged in home-based education are not dependent on public, tax-funded resources for their children’s education. The finances associated with their homeschooling likely represent over $27 billion that American taxpayers do not have to spend, annually, since these children are not in public schools
  • Taxpayers spend an average of $11,732 per pupil annually in public schools, plus capital expenditures. Taxpayers spend nothing on most homeschool students and homeschool families spend an average of $600 per student annually for their education.
  • Homeschooling is quickly growing in popularity among minorities. About 15% of homeschool families are non-white/nonHispanic (i.e., not white/Anglo).
  • An estimated 3.4 million or more U.S. adults have been homeschooled for at least one year of their K-12 years, and they were homeschooled an average of 6 to 8 years. If one adds to this number the 2.3 million being homeschooled today, an estimated 5.7 million Americans have experienced being homeschooled. [note 1]

Now my question to you is this? Are you prepared to dedicate 75% of your day to teaching?

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  • group field trips,park days and/or p.e. days – ( join QCSAHM; we might change the name if you join!)
  • organized clubs such as geography club, 4H, chess, robotics, etc.
  • book and curriculum exchanges- You will save SO much money by sharing resources!!! Here is video from homeschool graduation last year. Click Here! Many of the parents in this group share resources and community goodies.
Places like Home Depot Kids Workshops offers free instructions and play on building motor skills and creative engineering. And it’s free 1st Saturdays of the month!
  • dedicated email loops or Facebook groups for sharing information (join my newsletter – HERE! in the subject line type Charlotte Homeschool News)
  • organized athletic opportunities. (the YMCA is great for this)
  • the opportunity to make new friends!! (Join my Facebook page. We gotta stick together- QCSupermom )

Contact the NC Department of Non-Public Education (NCDNPE)

The key requirements for homeschooling in North Carolina include:

  • Parents must have at least a high school diploma (or equivalent).
  • Families must file a notice of intent to homeschool with the NC Department of Non-Public Education (NCDNPE) between July 1st and August 15th
  • Families should keep attendance and immunization records on file for each homeschool student.
  • Homeschooled students should take a nationally standardized test each year and keep the results on record for one year.
  • The homeschool should operate on a regular schedule for at least nine months of the school year. (Don’t worry, it’s easier to do than you think!)
  • Families should notify the NCDNPE when closing their homeschool

For a full explanation of each of these regulations, including forms that will be helpful in staying compliant, visit the NC Home School Information Portal.

Homeschool Record keeping in North Carolina

The records that homeschoolers are required to keep in North Carolina do not have to be submitted to the NCDNPE unless specifically requested. However, it is a good idea to keep a detailed, accurate, and professional homeschool portfolio of items for each student. Information that you might want to include in your homeschooler’s portfolio could be:

  • Subjects covered each school year
  • Parent-administered or online school report cards or assessments
  • Yearly standardized test scores
  • High school transcript for any student in grades 9-12

Let Me Just Say This: Well Homeschool Children are SMARTER – Just kidding a bit here, but most tend to have more time to focus and recite things like this from Collin K.

We have been homeschooling since 2005. Here’s 4 Ways It Works For Us:

  1. Flexibility – I don’t like getting up early on cold mornings, and sometimes, I like to go to the zoo in the middle of the week. To do that, I need my kids to go with me. lol. Seriously, the flexibility is a blessing! If my dad needs us to come to SC for his care, we can just jump up and go. And yes, spontaneous field trips are pretty cool too!
  2. Protection– I know that anything may happen anywhere at anytime. But I’m sorry, some public schools are like Sodom & Gomorrah. The schools in our area are very rough. Having them with me in controlled, safer environments makes me stress less. At least I don’t have to worry about any teachers or other kids pinning them up for rape, bullying or anything else deemed ill favored. (Even the food at basic schools suck) And we can’t afford private school for 4 boys right now.
  3. Diversity– I want my children to really be prepared for their future. There are so many topics not covered in public school that children need. For example, basic finance, urban horticulture, Real World cultures, home economics, Africa:pre slavery, and mechanics -just to name a few.
     So in short, our more tailored social interactions, support our values.
  4. Empowering – I trust myself to do this. I honestly feel that they are thriving better with me as a teacher. And because I have my husband to help financially support us. I want to continue putting them first so that when we are older, they will be more inclined to take care of us, if needed.

Here’s a tiny clip from a trip to Discovery Place. (I can show you how to save a lot of money on local admissions through my coaching sessions)   

 

Disclosure: I am resourceful. Not the smartest. My husband, older children, wise friends, and technology helps educate our four young ones. When/if the time comes and proves our system no longer serves our best interest, they’ll go to public school with the quickness.

As a homeschool coach, I can hold your hand as you get started. It is time consuming. It requires organization skills. It requires patience. It also requires research. I’ve done a lot of that so you don’t have too. Hire me to help get you started and to be available for coaching sessions. Inbox me at
QCSupermomInfo@Gmail.com for more details.
Please use in subject line (The HomeSchool Coach ). I’d love to help navigate you through this new chapter of life.

To all my friends and family that refers people to me for home school coaching, thank you. I really appreciate that!

Get more statistics here on homeschooling.

In home music class snippet- here!                                                       

Play time with Chubby!

Showing manners with Rachel the Raccoon

Wednesday WOW- AAU, USBA, and the TBT

I need a vacation! This basketball life is a beast!

My four guys are determined to follow in their big brother’s path and who am I to refuse them? Jervon plays overseas and when he comes home he plays on a ProAm team. It helps keep him in shape and secures our family and friends the opportunity to see him play in the U.S.

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It seems like the season never ends because of all the traveling and tournaments. But each year, there are certain games, that can’t be missed. I’m gonna tell you about them right quick.

TBT- Image may contain: one or more people They’ve been around since 2014. It’s the highest stakes basketball played anywhere in the world. Single elimination. A multi-million dollar prize. Winner takes all. TBT brings out the best in everyone. TBT champions have won $5.5M, including $5M by back-to-back-to-back Champions, Overseas Elite and $500,000 by the original TBT Champions, Notre Dame Fighting Alumni.  This years pot is $2 million dollars!

AAU-logoAAU-  is the largest sport in the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) the oldest and one of the LARGEST non-profit sports organizations in the US since 1888. We have been involved in this organization since 2005. Jervon played on Team United and the boys started with them. But now they are on Grind Academy’s roster.

The USBA tournament  is an upper class, high quality basketball tournaments for youth travel teams throughout the United States sine 2006.)

This past tournament with USBA was super fun and affordable because it was in Charlotte. This year  Allen Iverson, Jeremy Lamb, Charlotte Hornets guard, LeBron James (he was there to support his son Bronny)

 

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Check out Image result for the basketball tournament 2018

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The Basketball Tournament album: TBT 2018 Midwest Regional.

If you are in Atlanta this weekend, come hang with us this Friday!

Game Days (HERE!)

Next game Super 16 in Atlanta, G.A. at the Georgia State University.  Prime Time plays Friday at 9 p.m.

In closing, Jervon prayed for one brother, and was given 4. They all share the same love of the game and with his guidance basketball will continue to rule in this household.  Because he’s been through these  experiences, it help the boy navigate smarter towards their goals.

Raw Truth-> This didn’t happen over night. It didn’t happen without help from others. And it surely wasn’t cheap! We constantly use our creativity to save money and enjoy local activities when available. But it works for us. Our goal is to get all of our children free higher education.  And for us, basketball and tennis has been the key. Anything above that is a blessing.

FAVOR Please?—–> If you learned anything from this post, type ” #4MoreThanMe “. It’s a family hash tag! Thanks!

The Power Of Children – Dr. MLK Jr. Birthday Celebration

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Royalty free from  thefamouspeople.com

Momsrising knows how to party. We also know recognize the power of Children. On the weekend of Martin Luther King Jr. birthday we celebrated his legacy with some of Charlotte’s most amazing people, the youth. Did you know that Martin Luther King, Jr. was born January, 15, 1929 as “Michael King Jr?”

However, his father changed their first names to Martin and added “Luther” to his name as well as his son’s name. And both his father, Martin Luther King, Sr., and his mother, Alberta Williams King, were reverends.
Though he had a generally good childhood, from a young age, King saw firsthand the tough realities of the Jim Crow laws: the King family was ushered out of shoe stores because of their race, and he lost a young friendship due to racial differences.
He was a great student. He was admitted to Morehouse College at the age of 15. King graduated from Morehouse College in 1948 with a B.A. in sociology.
After graduating from Morehouse, King enrolled in Crozer Theological Seminary in Chester, Penn., and then also enrolled in the University of Pennsylvania. He was very successful at both schools and received many recognitions and awards. After graduating from Crozer, he began doctoral studies in Systematic Theology at Boston University in 1951, and then completed his doctorate in 1955.     

Can you imagine raising a child like him? I often wonder what his parents did to support such a powerful child despite the social distractions.

This Martin Luther King Jr. weekend, our community came together to celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the power of children. Our goal was to share a fun, kid focused, educational and most of all intentional day with our greatest and most powerful asset, our children.

To set the kid friendly tone, we played Dr. Kings speech,” If I Had Sneezed.”  Following was a storytelling by 12 year old Sybirah. Yes, I said a 12 year old storyteller.

Sybirah Young - StoryTeller

Storyteller Sybirah- Anasi And The Snake

Her powerful story was about the notorious Anasi. She was poised, articulate and engaging! The children listened to her every word! After that, children’s book author, S.Cherie read ‘Freedom On The Menu’ and ‘If Kids Ruled The World’. Those books proved to be a great lead into the on going craft workshop with Flo, of We Chic’d It.

It almost looked like an elf workshop, as paint, rocks, slabs of wood, and stencils filled tiny hands. Parents assisted in creating inspiring and beautiful pieces of art worthy to be posted on the families wall. Peek at some below.

 

 

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Later we enjoyed music performances by Brandy. and Niles, a 5 year old trombone player. You can watch both original videos online. Click here! And here!.

 

 

 

Like any good party, it is not complete without the birthday song and cake! One word, YUMMY! Oh, and Stevie Wonder would have been so proud to hear the children singing his song, that he wrote for his friend Martin. It was so harmonious! (listen to Stevie here.)

Before I end, let me give a big thanks to Momsrising’s generous co-sponsors and community supporters: Flo of We Chic’d It, The Black Ferris Bueller, Queen City Stay At Home Moms, Memorable Moments By Lee, and Imagine Publishing! Together we followed the blueprint of creating powerful children.

MLK Birthday Celebration in The QC!

Hey Charlotte, are you looking for a meaningful way to celebrate MLK with your child?  Then plan to join us for a FREE kid-friendly birthday party to celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.!  Dr.King (1)

Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.- MLK

MLK Day and the days surrounding it provide the perfect opportunity to talk with our kids about justice, service, and the ability of people working together to change things for the better. But it can be hard to find an event that speaks to kids at their level.

That’s why we’ve created a special birthday party on MLK weekend (Sunday, January 14th) geared to kids and families in Charlotte. Can you join us? RSVP here! 

At this year’s party, we’ll also be celebrating the power of children. While their contributions are often left out of the history books, children and young people played a critical role in the struggle for equality.

Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend.

-Martin Luther King Jr.

From the thousands of children who marched and were jailed in the Birmingham Children’s March to Ruby Bridges and the many other children who bravely integrated schools to Claudette Colvin who at 15 refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus nine months before Rosa Parks and so many more, our nation’s history is filled with brave kids who stood up for what was right.

At this year’s MLK family birthday party, we’ll celebrate their contributions in kid-friendly ways while encouraging all of our community’s children to think about how they too can help make our world a kinder, more just place.

There can be no deep disappointment where there is not deep love.

-Martin Luther King Jr.

At this FREE celebration, we’ll have story time, crafts, activities, and top it all with birthday cake as we sing “Happy Birthday” to Dr. King.

Celebrate Dr. King’s legacy in a way that your children will understand. Mark your calendars and plan to join us! RSVP here.

Here are all the details:

What: Join us for a free story time, crafts, activities, and birthday cake as we celebrate Dr. King’s life and legacy in a way that kids can understand.

When: The party will take place on MLK weekend, Sunday, January 14th from 1-4 pm.

Where: Beatties Ford Rd. Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road, CharlotteNC 28216

It’s going to be a lot of fun! Will we see you there? RSVP here so we’ll know to look for you.

Celebrating MLK and those who stood alongside him is great way to teach our kids that they too can make a difference. We hope you’ll join us and help spread the word about this free event!

-Beth, Kelle, Ruth, and the whole NC MomsRising.org team


Like what we’re doing? Donate: We’re a bootstrap, low overhead, mom run organization. Your donations make the work of MomsRising.org possible–and we deeply appreciate your support. Every little bit counts. Donate today on our secure website.

On Facebook? Become a Fan. Follow us on Twitter.

Want info from MomsRising.org in Spanish? Sign up to receive emails from our Spanish-language community, MamásConPoder.org!

What should MomsRising tackle next? Tell us what’s on your mind.

Thanks to this co-sponsors, special guests :

Queen City Stay At Home Moms, We Chic’ it, Black Ferris Bueller, Brandi Alexandria, Dr, Jerry Bowman, and Author S, Cheree.

*****Last year was good. This year will be even better—–>

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Disney On Ice FROZEN 2017 – Ticket Contest

Disney On Ice is back! And I’m not sure who is more excited. The children or myself! It’s my opportunity to take the kids back to my childhood. A time of low stress and all fantasy!

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Enter a fantastical winter wonderland beyond all imagination at Disney On Ice presents Frozen.  The heartwarming Academy Award-winning tale you love is now LIVE and skating into your town. You’ll be magically whisked away into the wintry world of Arendelle, where you will be dazzled by amazing special effects and astonishing skating. Sing and dance along to inspiring songs, including “Let It Go.” Join royal sisters Anna and Elsa, the hilarious snowman Olaf, Kristoff, his loyal reindeer Sven and the mystical trolls as they journey to discover that true love is ultimately the most magical power of all! Hosted by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, with special guest appearances by your most beloved Disney Princesses and characters from favorites like Disney•Pixar’s Toy Story, Finding Nemo and Disney’s The Lion King, this unforgettable celebration of love and friendship will leave your family with memories to last a lifetime.

Love Is Putting Someone Else’s Needs Before Yours- Frozen

My children always focus on the colorful excitement, costumes, and funny lines, I take in the lyrics, perfect moves on ice and the light-hearted storylines. For 90 minutes, there is nothing but excitement, fun, and a carefree childhood! If you have gone before, you understand my excitement. If not, make plans to go this year!

Director Patty Vincent says, “Our goal is to showcase these heartwarming characters in a way that allows the audience to cheer and sing along throughout this emotional journey.” Here’s how to get your tickets. Buy them via the link below or win them!

I’m giving away four tickets for the opening night show on 

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Thursday, October 5 at 7:00pm. To win them, be sure to like us on Instagram and Facebook. Then tag me in your favorite Disney meme. Simple right? I posted one of my favorite Disney memes below.

 

The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of them all; Mulan

 

Last year we invited Zianna Oliphant, she and her family had a ball!

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Bringing Beloved Disney Characters to Life on Ice.

Location:        Spectrum Center

Show Dates:   Oct 05, 2017 – Oct 08, 2017

Purchase Tickets Here

Our 1st Carnival Cruise

 

I know! I know, I’ve been away for a while! But wait till you hear about my journey back to you!

Well, here it goes…. I went on my very first cruise EVER! We had the time if our lives! The porting city was Miami, Florida and we stopped in Key West and ended the adventure in Cozumel,  Mexico! It was 5 days and four nights of fun, food, adventure, friends, and fabulous-ness (yes, it’s  a word!)

 

We could not ask for a better vacation.  At first, I had internal hesitation.  The Love Boat was the only good memory I ever had to relate toward any fun ship. Then there’s  Gilligan’s Island and Titanic to overshadowed that.  Never the less, I was able to keep it together for my 5 sons.

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Checking in and registering everyone was easy! The ship was grand! The staff was happy to see us! They even learned our names! Can you believe that? The food, the service, the shopping in Cozumel, the value, the memories! UUUgh, I can’t wait to take my girls and husband on the next trip!

 

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This trip was paid for by my oldest son and planned by my  (hope to be soon DIL) Genny!

 

 

I even thought about you!

Here’s your 1st gift:

10 Tips for a Vicory Cruise with Boys:

  1. The cruise is just the beginning. Spring for an excursion.

2. Don’t forget the camera. The water and smiles are rare and priceless.

3. If you are racist, Stay home.  No explanation needed.

4. Forget the kid’s bedtime.  Each night my boys watched a movie in the hot tub under the stars. Why stop them?

5.If you are a homeschooler, teach about your intended traveling and culture before boarding.  You’ll get the best teacher of the year title! Trust me!

6. If you’re taking more than one child, twin them up! Even the ship guest will help you keep up with them. You’ll thank me later for this!

7. If you have a long drive to the port, don’t throw away your water bottle, It quickly becomes a mobile potty.

8. Pack, then check twice before leaving home. Packing light and smart is the goal.

9. After letting your best friend know that you’re leaving, contact your credit card and cell phone company.  International rates and credit card freezing at the point of purchase is no fun!

10. Once checked in; grab the itenary and use it up! There’s so much to do!

 

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Advance Screening Invite | MY COUSIN RACHEL | Charlotte

Based on Daphne du Maurier’s mystery-romance novel of the same name, the film stars acclaimed actress Rachel Weisz and rising British star Sam Claflin (ME BEFORE YOU, THE HUNGER GAMES).

And here’s your 2nd gift! Get free passes to see #MyCousinRacheal

Till next time…… “Cheerio’!

NC SHEROES 2017 AWARDEES

It’s Woman History Month! Let’s celebrate the amazing contributions women make to our world and our future.

We are so fortunate to have several remarkable women from our community who are going to share their journey as we as answer any question you may have for them.

Come join  Momsrising THIS Saturday March 18th 2017   Beatties Ford Rd. Regional Library at 1pm; as we highlight and celebrate our selected SHEROES!

The award ceremony and roundtable includes a “Dress Up-Fantasy”  area for the children and a light reception following.This event is free! So come on! Ready to attend? Well it’ll be here  in no time. For now get to know more about each of them here.

Meet Chautauqua Ellison, NC SHERO

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Chautauqua Ellison, NC SHERO

Born February 24, 1973, on a Saturday evening to Glenda Graves (American) and Herman Morris (Guyanese). A product of both the foster care system and adoption system. Adopted at the age of 15 after going from one abusive foster family to another and having experienced abuse with the family she hoped to have finally found love and her place of belonging only to feel the cycle of being not wanted, she came to understand what she wanted part of her journey to be. She understood she wanted to help little brown girls like herself.
A graduate of Marlboro County High School in 1992 and immediately went off to college. She attended Morris College in Sumter, SC, Commissioned as 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army, April 1997 and graduated May 10th, 1997 with a Bachelor of Arts in English.
After graduating from college Chautauqua moves to Charlotte, NC and this is where she began her career in Early Education. Chautauqua has taught Early Education for 19 years. She is also a former HeadStart Educator.
Chautauqua became a member of the Order of Eastern Star, Queen Sheba #5 at the age of 21 and is still active with the Junior Eastern Stars affiliated with her chapter. At this time she began to have a full experience with SISTERHOOD.
Fast forward to the year 2010 and Chautauqua becomes involved with an amazing organization called I Am My Sister. She has facilitated evidence-based program pm Teen Pregnancy and Teen STDs/STI for 4 years for the organization. In 2013 Chautauqua started the first community-based club for the organization. In January of 2016, she became the Executive Director for I Am My Sister NC and SC chapter.
I Am My Sister is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides programs and resources centered around leadership development, healthy relationships, beauty and body image, career development, community service and support, entrepreneurship and workforce development, financial literacy, adolescent sexual health and teen parenting support, education and mentoring services for youth and their families.
I Am My Sister’s programs and services are available to youth and families in NC, SC, MD, NY, GA and CA.
I Am My Sister LOVES diversity! We’re PRO-YOUNG PEOPLE and don’t discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex or disability.
Along with being an active member of the OES (Order of Eastern Star), Chautauqua is also an active member of the Black Women Caucus of Mecklenburg , a member of the School Leadership Team at Lincoln Heights School (CMS) and a member of The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
Chautauqua was also a nominee for the 2017 Mayor’s Mentor Alliance Award.
Chautauqua also lives by her personal motto: In order to teach life lessons, one must have lived the lesson beginning taught.

Meet Amanda Zullo, Founder + Owner

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Amanda Zullo is the Founder and Owner of Pop Up Produce

Pop Up Produce

Amanda Zullo is the Founder and Owner of Pop Up Produce and a 2016 Emerging City Champions grant recipient winner, sponsored by 8 80 Cities and the Knight Foundation. A designer, community engager and food enthusiast, she has a passion for health and wellness, sustainable living and fresh food. Amanda earned her Masters in Urban Design with a Post-Masters Certificate in Real Estate Development, a Bachelors of Architecture, and a Bachelors of Arts in Architecture with a Minor in Geography, all from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. In both academic and professional realms, her focus has been to foster healthy communities through the built environment using design towards community activism. She has been involved in numerous local volunteer organizations, from educating the youth through various programs and work relating to community outreach.

 

Meet 2017 NC Shero: Nakisa Glover ng

She is a mom, native of Charlotte, NC and holds a biology degree from UNC-Charlotte.
She has built a track record as a community organizer, with years of experience in corporate, community and service-based work. She has a passion for advocacy and contributing positively to the community. She is the co-host of TheAgenda, a local think tank dedicated to creating space built on four pillars to Inform, Discuss, Network and take Action. As a strong collaborator, she brings her perspective to her current role with Hip Hop Caucus as National Climate Justice Organizer. She is the former national field coordinator for the Justice Action Mobilization Network (JAMN), a group dedicated to advancing climate change policy using a fusing social justice and climate justice. Her deep local and national networks mean that Ms. Glover has resources and contacts for dealing effectively with such critical issues as climate, social and economic justice. She was recently recognized as an Emerging Leader in the Climate Movement and is the recipient of the Clean Air Carolina the 2016 Airkeeper Award, joining NC Governor Roy Cooper, Dr. James Kenny, and other business leaders.

Meet NC Shero; Je’lah Singleton.

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D-Jé Boogie can be contacted via the following channels: Email – http://www.djeboogie00.com Instagram – @djeboogie00 Twitter- @djeboogie00 Facebook- D-Je’ Boogie Telephone – 980.202.3036

Jèlah Singleton, aka D-Jé Boogie, is a teenage female DJ who has presently been developing her craft for a little over a year. The idea of aspiring to become a DJ occurred when she realized how she could share her creativity and her love for music with others. D-Jé believes music has no boundaries or barriers. The art of being a DJ bridges gaps of age, ethnicity and various backgrounds.

 

Music has always been a huge part of D-Jé Boogie’s life. Sharing her craft allows her to share her love for the innocence and different moods of music. The variety of DJ engagements allows her to choose and ‘’play with” the appropriate genre of music for any occasion.

Becoming a DJ has required the investment in equipment, time and learning the art of the craft. She enrolled in classes, which enhanced her love for mixing and transitioning music. While attending the WTHands DJ Academy, D-Jé Boogie was selected to appear on WBTV for one their young DJ spots. That exposure improved her confidence to perform in front of crowds. Entrepreneurship has proven to be challenging and has also required discipline. However, entrepreneurship has also allowed D-Jé Boogie, as a teenager, to be her own boss. The God-given gift of her love for music will continue to reach people of all ages and allow her to share  their special moments.

Although DJ Boogie has been trained to provide the appropriate music for many occasions, she has been labeled as having an Old Soul. Her personal music of choice is different genres of music from the 1960s -1990s

 

Meet NC Shero; Flo Ward, We Chic’d It

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Flo is a creative environmentalist and DIYer. She used her prior experiences to start  We Chic’d It!, a furniture upcycling company based in North Carolina with the mission to help keep usable solid wood antique and vintage furniture from going into our landfills.
After completing her undergraduate work in Fine Arts, she worked as a graphic designer for several publishing/marketing companies, such as AutoTrader and Pilot Media Companies, until switching careers and going back to school to become an educator/trainer of technology within the school system. Now, several years later, she uses her knowledge of color, DIYing (do it yourself crafts), and education to teach others how to refinish, refurbish, reupholster, and repurpose their home furniture and decor items. Becoming the Queen DIYer/Upcycling Creationist that everyone knows her to be. Always thinking outside of the box, and generating ideas on Facebook, Pinterest, and HomeTalk. She is a married, mother of three and lives in the Lake Norman area, near Charlotte, North Carolina.

 

Meet NC Shero; Judith Wilson, – Foodie4Access

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Judith Wilson Burkes http://www.foodie4access.org http://www.sssmovement.com Facebook: #judielise #foodie4access #sssmoves #celebratec Twitter: @judielise, @sss_movement, Foodie4Accessclt

 

Judith Wilson Burkes is a nonprofit founder, author/blogger, internet radio host, community disability advocate and business owner.

Growing up in New York City, she developed a passion for the arts and all creativity. After attending an art high school against the wishes of her family, Judith tried to work for corporate America. She worked for various industries, usually finding a way to bring her love of creativity to the job, for more than 15 years, before her health made her leave the workforce in her mid-30s. She faced hardship in her relationships as well, as two marriages ended in divorce, leaving her to raise two sons on the autism spectrum virtually by herself. Despite her own health issues, Judith continued to work at home, first with her own graphic design company, and then virtually for technology-driven companies.

Moving from NY to MD, and now making Charlotte, NC her home, Judith formed her own nonprofit, Foodie4Access in 2016, to break down barriers of isolation faced by people and families touched by disability. Then, after meeting the founder of a local singles organization, Judith quickly saw the value of his idea to do for Christian singles what she was driven to do for people with disabilities.

With her two sons grown and independent, Judith now spends her time creating inclusive events that focus on changing lifestyles and mindsets.

Today, as President of The Single, Saved and Serious Movement and founder of Foodie4AccssCLT, she hopes to foster a sense of community among people who want to expand their social and entertainment horizons, while making a difference in local underserved communities, with small businesses and outreach organizations poised to make a difference.

 

“Do Not wait for someone else to come and speak for you. It’s you who can change the world”. -M.Y.

This gathering is in part sponsored by Momsrising. To RSVP and find out more information, visit our Facebook event at: https://goo.gl/NXoUDw   or follow along on Twitter with NCSheroes2017

 

 

Win Harlem Globe Trotter Tickets!

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We are a Harlem Globe Trotting Family! We haven’t missed a show since 2011. Come out (again) this year!

 Their one-of-a-kind show is unrivaled in the world of family entertainment with incredible ball handling, hilarious comedy, and loads of fan interaction, including a post-game autograph signing.  

This month, they will be returning to Halton Arena at UNC Charlotte on Saturday, March 25 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.  Tickets are on sale at HarlemGlobetrotters.com and TicketReturn.com

Feel free to take a look at previous posts of the Trotters in town. Here’s 2011, 2013 and  2016

The shows are always well populated and the entertainment is great for the entire family!

 

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Want some history and good news? 

I am a stickler for learning the history and operations of “nouns” that I patronize. I did a little research on the company and was pleasantly surprised.

The Harlem Globetrotters are an exhibition basketball team that combines athleticism, theater, and comedy. Over the years they have played more than 26,000 exhibition games in 122 countries and territories. They are owned by Herschend Family Entertainment; develops and operates entertainment, tourism and hospitality properties that currently span 26 locations in ten states and is widely recognized as the premier privately held theme park operator in the U.S. The 50-year-old company is committed to creating wholesome, immersive family entertainment experiences.

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Yes, it’s a family company and their history has no dark blemishes. Yes, they can have some of my money!  Too many times we have no clue what we are supporting. Our dollars have real power. The power to keep a good thing going and the power to end it.  This is something wonderful to attend, support and enjoy!

WIN A FAMILY FOUR PACK!

EASY GIVEAWAY!!        Share something motivating that involves the Harlem Globe Trotters. Here or on our Facebook page. The winner will be a follower of this blog or ‘liker’ of our Facebook page. Increase your chances of winning by liking our other pages as well, Instagram, Twitter!

 .We will pick one random winner on January 25th and post the winner on our Facebook page. Good luck! (Tickets will be for the Spectrum Center)

Buy Your Harlem Globe Trotter Tickets Here: 

header-buy-tickets (yes, click that ball button)

 

Come out and put a smile on everyone’s face! ( Don’t bother asking me what these two are looking at. LOL!)

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