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Taking In a daily Dose of Parenting

Parents showing up and giving their all, every single day.

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Taking In a daily Dose of Parenting

Parents showing up and giving their all, every single day.

Let's Chat

Experience todays black parent Lifestyle

Chasing The Sun

Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) is a type of depression linked to seasonal changes, typically o

Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) is a type of depression linked to seasonal changes, typically occurring during the fall and winter months when there’s less natural sunlight. It can cause symptoms like fatigue, low mood, irritability, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite, and feelings of sadness or hopelessness. For parents and families, S.A.D. can be particularly challenging, as it affects their ability to manage household responsibilities, work-life balance, and relationships.

Getting Through It

5 Favs That Can Help Us All During This Season

1. Create a Daily Routine with Exposure to Light

How to do it:

Open curtains first thing in the morning to let in sunlight.

Spend time outdoors during the day, even on cloudy days.

Use a light therapy box for 20–30 minutes daily to simulate natural light

Why it helps:

Limited daylight during fall and winter can disrupt the body's internal clock, leading to mood changes. Exposure to natural or artificial light can improve mood and energy.

Move & Movement

Why it helps

Physical activity releases endorphins, which boost mood and reduce symptoms of depression.

How to do it

Schedule family walks or yoga sessions.

Encourage indoor activities like dance parties or workout videos that the whole family can enjoy.

Join local classes or programs to stay accountable

Healthy Eating

How to do it:

Include foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon, walnuts, and chia seeds).

Limit refined sugars and processed foods, which can cause energy crashes.

Incorporate mood-enhancing foods like leafy greens, berries, and whole grains.

Why it helps

A balanced diet with mood-boosting nutrients can help regulate energy levels and prevent mood swings.

Encourage Emotional Connection

Why it helps:

Talking about feelings and staying connected reduces isolation and strengthens family bonds, making time for friends , find your like minded people

How to do it:

Have regular check-ins with family members to share feelings or stressors.

Encourage kids to express themselves through drawing, journaling, or storytelling.

Plan family game nights, movie marathons, or other bonding activities to create joy.

Why it helps

A balanced diet with mood-boosting nutrients can help regulate energy levels and prevent mood swings.

Practice Self-Care and Stress Management

Why it helps:

Parents often prioritize everyone else but need to care for their own well-being to better support their family.

How to do it:

Schedule personal downtime, even if it’s just 10–15 minutes to read or meditate.
Practice mindfulness or deep breathing to manage stress.
Seek professional support, such as therapy or counseling, if symptoms of S.A.D. become overwhelming.

Bonus Tips

Create a Cozy Atmosphere: Use warm lighting, soft blankets, and comforting scents like lavender or vanilla to make your home feel inviting.
Stick to a Sleep Schedule: A consistent bedtime routine can help regulate the family’s mood and energy levels.
Encourage Gratitude Practices: Start a family gratitude jar or journal to focus on the positive aspects of each day.become overwhelming.

Celebrating the spirit of the Season

Music for the holidays

A Song for the Soul

In melodies soft, the heart does sway,
Echoes of joy from Christmas Day.
Each note, a thread, so finely spun,
Binding the past to the moments to come.

The carols hum of winters gone,
Of snowy nights and golden dawns.
Laughter wrapped in each refrain,
Bringing loved ones close again.

A violin whispers of fireside cheer,
Piano keys chime what we hold dear.
The rhythm of bells, a joyous call,
Reminds us that music connects us all.

Oh, the soul finds peace in a holiday tune,
As stars align with a silver moon.
For the songs we sing and memories we keep,
Are gifts of the season, both rich and deep.

Mitzi Dee Andrews

list of christmas movies

Check out a list

"Get cozy this holiday season with our curated list of Christmas movies, perfect for feel-good moments and festive cheer. 🎄🎥 Check it out and make your movie nights unforgettable!"

click the you tube link for more

Holiday books ideas

Thank you at Krishana Davis for her book reviews for the hoiday Season

SPILLING THE TEA

Asked & Answered

Stacey: Hi, Fractured Pen. I’m Stacey, a single mom in my forties. I’ve been dating this man for about a year now, and… honestly, I don’t know what to do anymore. He makes me feel special sometimes, but most of the time, he puts himself first. Every time I bring up my needs, he either dismisses me or turns it into something about him. And when we argue, he tears me down—makes me feel like I’m the problem. I don’t know if I’m imagining things or if I’m just not strong enough to make this work.

Fractured Pen: Hi, Stacey. First of all, let me say this: the fact that you’re reaching out shows strength, not weakness. You’re prioritizing clarity and healing, and that’s no small thing. Let’s unpack this together.

Let me break it down the only way i know :

Step 1: Acknowledge the Good

Fractured Pen: It’s clear you’re a thoughtful person and that you deeply care about this relationship. Being in your forties, juggling motherhood, and still finding space to give someone love—that’s remarkable. Your dedication and willingness to work through challenges are qualities not everyone possesses. These are strengths, Stacey.

Step 2: Address the Core Issue

Fractured Pen: That said, your story points to behavior that’s concerning. When a partner consistently prioritizes themselves over your needs, dismisses your feelings, and tears you down, it’s not just a “rough patch”—it’s a sign of imbalance. From what you’re describing, it sounds like you’re dating someone with narcissistic tendencies. Narcissists are often charming at first, but over time, their behavior shifts toward control and manipulation, leaving their partner emotionally drained and doubting themselves.

Stacey, your needs, feelings, and boundaries are not only valid—they’re essential. A healthy relationship uplifts and nurtures both partners. If your partner consistently makes you feel less than or dismisses your concerns, it’s a sign he’s not meeting you halfway. And here’s the hard truth: no matter how much love or effort you pour into this relationship, you can’t fix someone who refuses to look inward or take accountability.

Step 3: Empower and Reassure

Fractured Pen: But here’s the silver lining—you’ve already taken the first step by recognizing that something doesn’t feel right. That’s powerful. You don’t have to settle for a relationship that chips away at your self-worth. You deserve a partner who sees your light, not one who tries to dim it. I want you to imagine this: What would your life look like if you redirected all the love and energy you’re giving to him back into yourself and your children? How much freer and happier could you feel?

If you decide to leave this relationship, it’s not a failure—it’s an act of love for yourself and a beautiful example for your children of what self-respect looks like. And if staying feels like the right path, consider setting firm boundaries and possibly seeking couples therapy—but only if he’s willing to change. Without his commitment to doing the work, the cycle will continue.

Stacey: Thank you, Fractured Pen. That really hit me. I’ve been afraid to admit it, but I think I knew deep down this isn’t healthy. Redirecting that love back into myself… that sounds like something I’ve been needing for a long time.

Fractured Pen: You’ve already started, Stacey, by naming the problem and asking for help. Trust your instincts and take this one step at a time. You’re stronger than you know, and the love you give yourself will ripple outward to everyone in your life. I’m rooting for you.

Remember, Stacey, the best relationships don’t leave you questioning your worth—they remind you of it. Check in andf give an update when you c❤an

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Taking In a daily Dose of Parenting

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