Creamy Divine Chicken Divan - Kansas City Motherhood | Examiner.com

You've gotta try my recipe for buys moms!

Creamy Divine Chicken Divan - Kansas City Motherhood | Examiner.com

Keeping Kids Safe in Kansas City's Soaring Temps

Keeping Kids Safe in Kansas City's Soaring Temps

Gift ideas for dad: What to get dad for Father's day

Gift ideas for dad: What to get dad for Father's day

Ages and Stages: healthy diet guidelines for kids

Ages and Stages: healthy diet guidelines for kids

Baby Einstein: still in the news

Baby Einstein: still in the news

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Great New Stuff!

Hi Moms!

Thanks to Allied Integrated Marketing in Kansas City, SHS has another opportunity to beat the winter doldrums and enjoy a free movie!

If you would like to see "Alvin and the Chipmunks" for free, call the SHS office or email Teri today!

Secondly, we have created a brand new online community at sistershelpingsisterskc.ning.com. It's amazing! You can have a email, chat, blog and talk to other KC moms - for free! We'll post information about community resources we access and more! Be sure to join today.

Finally, I've chatted with a few of you and I can hear that end of the year stress in your voices. Stay encouraged, Single Mom. Regardless of what you have endured this past year, your best years, relationships, career opportunities and blessings are a head of you - not behind you.

Good things are still happening. Allied's gift is proof of that! Be watchful for those "little" blessings to keep your hopes strong.

Keep your hope strong and remember the best is yet to come.

Beat the Holiday Blues, Single Mom!

There’s one surefire answer to battle the holiday blues. Your weapon is gratitude. I know it sounds overly simplistic but the best solutions in life usually are.

Inventory your blessings frequently and reject the tendency to focus on the negative. That will never produce anything encouraging in your life or your inner spirit. If in all things you are thankful, you’ll be surprised how your perspective will shift from what you don’t have to the wonderful, many things you do.

Here are 16 things you can be thankful for right now:

1. Your children and their giggles bring pleasure to your life.

2. If you have teens, be grateful that you raised them thus far.

3. You’re kids are grown? Do a little gig right now! What an accomplishment!

4. Do you have a supportive person in your life? Someone that has a smile and encouraging word regularly? That’s a blessing.

5. Do you have a place to live? It may not be your ideal situation, but it’s a piece of good fortune. Recognize it as such.

6. Are you breathing? I’m sure you are. Be happy about that!!!

7. Be thankful for the fact that you have enough strength to read this.

8. Is there a place that feeds your spirit? If so, celebrate that! If not, find one.

9. Do a set of wheels take you from one point of the city to another? It may be a car, bus, bike or friend’s automobile. Focus on the good.

10. Access to technology is another opportunity to be happy and thankful.

11. Did at least one good thing happen to you this past week? One?

12. Does someone else genuinely care about you or your kids? A neighbor, teacher or friend?

13. Does an old song still make you smile? (Mine is “I can make you dance” by Roger Troutman and Zapp)

14. Did you survive a situation that would have broken another woman in two? A divorce, abuse or rejection? Celebrate and be appreciative you overcame that!

15. Is there a guy in your past that you’re THRILLED is gone? Whew! Be happy!

16. Did you get a pleasant surprise this last year?


Could you be thankful for at least three items on the list? If so, you’re blessed beyond reason. There will be days that are so “heavy” that you’ll need a reminder of your blessings. On those days refer back to this list. Soon you’ll find yourself able to smile again and rejoice in the Holiday season – and every day that follows.

What's Going On?

For some moms, the meetings seemed to simply cease! For others, it's a sigh of relief since the weather has begun to turn frigid.

The conundrum is hosting the meetings for single moms that must rush from work, pick up their children from childcare; deliver them to a sitter; and come to Midtown for the meeting. SHS is comprised of single moms and former single moms and we understand how something as simple as a meeting can create a small amount of stress in the lives of some moms. For us, that seems counterproductive.

So, on the site, you'll see a new poll asking your opinion. Let us know what you want and what works best for you. Just know that we're still available for support, resources and even a free movie from time to time!

Let us know your thoughts...and Happy Holidays!

*To stay informed of local resources, join the mailing lists here!

Talk to your kids about sex

Talk to your kids about sex

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5 Tips for moms to de-clutter your world

5 Tips for moms to de-clutter your world

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Recall Alert: Children and Infants Tylenol

Recall Alert: Children and Infants Tylenol

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Is too much homework stressing your kids?

Is too much homework stressing your kids?

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Dating Single Moms: Tips for Guys

Tips for Dating Single Moms

Sisters Helping Sisters.Org doesn’t get a lot of daddy visitors to the website, but from time to time we hear from a few. As a result, I thought it would be a good idea to feature some information men might find useful and info that would help single moms at the same time.

Dating as a single mother is one of the trickiest elements of raising kids on your own. There are no cookie-cutter approaches to the subject, but these tips might make the process easier for everyone involved. Guys will find these ideas particularly useful should they date a single mother. Go ahead and forward this to your male friends and family members! These tips might include some information difficult to say, but they need to hear.

Tip 1: Respect the multiple roles and facets of the single mother. The single mom you date may enjoy nice evenings on the town as she is able, but know that it took some planning and arranging for you to enjoy that time with her. Single moms can rarely spontaneously jump up and go on a date at a moment’s notice. She must put a lot of “ducks’ in a row to make that special moment. So respect her time, value her boundaries and make the evening extraordinary.

Tip 2: Don’t mislead her. Clearly, single moms are women, but they are also someone’s mother. Treat her with respect. If you’re not interested in a possible commitment or marriage, then you must tell her so she will know how to treat and interact with you. She doesn’t have time for games or weak wishy-washy men. So, initiate the conversation about your intentions and find out hers. If you guys define the relationship it lessens the possibility of misunderstandings that will distract or hurt her later.

By the same token, don’t assume that she is looking for an instant husband –just because she has kids. She may not view you or need you that way.

Tip 3: Children are fragile little beings. Be careful about meeting her kids. The last thing kids need is a string of men in and out of their lives. Unless you are interested in being a stable part of their lives, there’s little reason for you to meet them.

Tip 4: A single mother doesn’t need booty calls. In my experience as a single mom, sex before marriage only clouded and muddied relationships. My faith empowered me to make good decisions about my body so I didn’t continually fall into situations that inhibited my ability to parent well.

If you are dating a single mom and you love her; then wait for her. If you love her enough to be physical then step up like a real man: wait for sex and then progress toward a real commitment that involves a preacher and a ring.

Back to the Moms. Men of integrity are a blessing and they still exist! I can attest to that. However, he did not come overnight. I went though a string of nutmos. But the good ones are out there, ladies.

Single moms, set emotional boundaries to protect you and your children. It’s also time for men to exhibit integrity and conduct themselves sensibly and reasonably in dating relationships. The number one benefactors will be the children.

Lose that Belly Fat, Mom!

For many moms, the tummy area seems to have a fat-attracting magnet! Mid-section pooches are the toughest to lose because of reduced elasticity and muscle tone as a result of pregnancy. Most experts agree that it’s almost impossible for you to return to your pre-pregnancy washboard belly. But don’t despair; you can shrink fatty tissue to get a bit closer to your ideal tummy.

Cardio is a mommy-must!

Cardio is basically any exercise that raises your heart rate and gets you “winded”. Such movements burn fat and build endurance. Examples include: running, walking (really quickly), jumping and the like.

Did you know tummy-reducing exercises are somewhat useless without some cardio? You need that cardio to burn away the fatty layer hiding the muscles you want to showcase. A great workout tool – that won’t make you cry for an ambulance– is Leslie Sansone’s “Walk Away the Pounds” series. You can get it at Walmart or Target for about fifteen bucks. Leslie's moves are easy and require no rhythm or fancy techniques! Buy online below at Amazon for a bit less.

Cut the Carbohydrates

You simply must reduce your sugar intake to lose your tummy fat. Sugar lurks in processed foods such as white breads, white rice and even crackers! Once that processed food hits your tummy it turns into sugar. Sugar turns to fat – sometimes congregating around your mid-section. Understand belly fat? Check out the video featuring Dr. Mehmet Oz.

A low-carb diet like the South Beach is a quick way to get rid of belly fat – but it’s far from easy. Here’s why: according to “The South Beach Diet” by Arthur Agatston, your body develops a sugar addition making you crave more and more “fixes”. During phase one you quit sugar “cold turkey” and lose some inches, but you also may experience withdrawal symptoms such as headaches. The good news is after your detox period, you’re less likely to crave sugar and should be free of it’s wicked, evil power forever!

Track those calories

Take advantage of free online tools to track your caloric intake. Try The Daily Plate or The Calorie Counter for some great tools! Dr. Ian Smith’s health challenge is also free and offers great resources.

Whichever course of action you choose to banish those mommie pounds, make sure you include cardio, limit your sugar and sweets and track what you eat. Soon you’ll be the size you want and a lot healthier to boot!

Access Resources Online:

Stress and the Single Mom

Thanks to Juanita Bartel for speaking to Kansas City single moms on Monday, August 31st at the Plaza Library. She shared practical insights on what stress is, how to manage it and some simple physical exercises to relieve it.

We also completed an assessment to gauge our feelings about our stresses and how to link our behaviors to core issues.

Thanks again to Juanita for taking time from her busy schedule to spend an evening with some dynamic single mommies!

Winners of give-a-ways were Cheryle, Keesha and Wilma! We love ya, guys!

School District Websites in the Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas Areas

As you're getting ready to transition your children to school, you'll have questions. Visit your child's school district website to learn information about start times, school supply lists and faculty details. If your school's site isn't listed, feel free to add it to the comments section for other parents.

Missouri School Districts

Kansas City, Missouri School District (includes school supply lists and more)
http://www2.kcmsd.net/Pages/default.aspx

North Kansas City Schools
http://www.nkcsd.k12.mo.us/

Belton School District
http://www.beltonschools.k12.mo.us

Blue Sprints School District
http://www.bluesprings-schools.net

Center School District
http://www.center.k12.mo.us

Grandview School District
http://www.csd4.k12.mo.us/

Hickman Mills School District
http://schoolweb.missouri.edu/hickman.k12.mo.us/

Independence School District
http://www.indep.k12.mo.us/

Lee’s Summit
http://www.leesummit.k12.mo.us/

Park Hill School District
http://www.parkhill.k12.mo.us/

Platte County School District
http://pcr3pirates.org/nav1-10-04/

Raytown School District
http://www.raytown.k12.mo.us/

Smithville School District
http://www.smithville.k12.mo.us/

Kansas School Districts

Blue Valley School District
http://www.bluevalleyk12schools.org/

Bonner Springs School District
http://usd204.net/education/district/district.php?sectionid=1

Olathe School District
www.olathe.k12.ks.us/

Piper School District
www.piperschools.com/

Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools
http:// www.kckps.org/

Shawnee Mission School District
http://www.smsd.org/

Turner School District
http://www.turnerusd202.org/

Dads Play An Important Role in Kid’s Lives

Last evening, CNN ran a feature hosted by Roland Martin and Soledad O’Brien called “Reclaiming the Dream”. I must admit that I didn’t view the entire episode, but I was impressed by the profile about Steve Harvey’s youth program. Before I tell you why, let me first say I have never been counted among Steve Harvey’s fan base. Nothing personal against him, it’s just that his humor never appealed to me, but my pre-teen son loved him. You couldn’t pay me to listen to his show or watch his re-runs.

That is until last evening.

The CNN special spotlighted Harvey’s weekend camp for boys called “How-to-be-a-man school” Don’t be fooled. The curious title intentionally reflects Harvey’s comedic flair, but it’s nothing to scoff at. The camp is actually a clandestine mentoring opportunity for young boys from single mom homes. While enjoying camp, young boys learn life lessons most commonly taught by dads. In one scene, a little guy is taught to tie a necktie while being compassionately coached by an African-American male. The moment is touching and inspiring.

New position: I love Steve Harvey!!!

Through the years, I received tons of emails from dads accusing Sisters Helping Sisters of ignoring their plight in the child-rearing process. Nothing could be further from the truth! Here’s the skinny: Sisters Helping Sisters supports and empowers single moms to reach their fullest personal potential so that they can raise healthy, strong young people. The goals and the mission are clear and succinct - moms. SHS does not in any way malign the needs or contributions of dads.

As a result of the Steve Harvey feature on CNN, we take this opportunity to salute them. Fathers play a huge role in the healthy development of kids. The most unselfish and magnanimous gift you can give your child is allow their dad to be a part of their life. Whether or not they pay child support, regardless of how they disappointed you relationally, the kids need dad. As long as no safety risks exist, you’ve got to encourage that relationship. Dad’s involvement can contribute to your children’s lives in a myriad of positive ways.

For instance, a University of Illinois study shows that the earlier dads are involved, the more likely they’ll interact as the child(ren) matures. If your children are small now, be sure to include dad in pediatrician, school visits and more. Believe me; you’ll need support from the child’s father as the child approaches [and during] the adolescent years. Further, your child’s sexual choices can be linked to that dad/child relationship.

A study from the same university says “the more attentive the dad — and the more he knows about his teenage child's friends — the bigger the impact on the teen's sexual behavior…” Although your role is important, the study shows that dad’s is “twice as influential”. Make room for daddy!

Letting some dads “in” is difficult, I admit that. I’ve been there. At times, I forgot it wasn’t about me, but about my son. Thankfully, I learned that lesson and his dad was a large part of his growing into the wonderful man he is today. After a while, when he disappeared from his life, we were blessed to have another great dad willingly step in to fill the void.

Bottom line: in spite of your ex’s role in the break-up, he’s essential to your child’s well-being.

So, on this day, at this moment, in response to Steve Harvey’s notable efforts, we salute and honor you, dad! Keep up the good work improving the lives of your children. They need you and truth be told, so do we. What do you think?

Watch video from CNN
http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2009/black.in.america/

Visit Steve Harvey's Website
http://steveharvey.com/

Divorce May Widen Distance Between Teens, Fathers
http://www.physorg.com/news119098181.html

The Role of Fathers with Daughters and Sons
http://www.aces.uiuc.edu/news/stories/news4822.html

Devoted Dad Key to Reducing Risky Teen Sex
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31086977/

July: Great Single Mom Meeting!

What a great meeting!

Lynette Dewberry spends her days as a professional in the financial industry. But on last Thursday evening, she was an advocate for financial readiness in the lives of Kansas City single moms. Lynette generously took time from her busy schedule to share valuable insights to help single moms conquer money barriers in their lives.

Lynette Tip: Careful of Emotional Spending

Emotional spending is part of most everyone’s life. Emotions play a significant role in our interactions, relationships and parenting styles. In their proper context, emotions contribute to the excitement and spontaneity of life. In extremes, the same emotions can contribute to mayhem and chaos, especially in our finances. Lynette encouraged single moms to think critically about emotional purchases to avoid creating problems later.

Lynette Tip: Give and You’ll Get

The law of attraction is an often overlooked principle of life. Lynette reminded us that the more we give, the more we receive. She also modeled this spiritual truth by giving amazing gifts to moms at the meeting. A beautiful jewelry set and a few sets of movie tickets were among the give-a-way items at the Sisters Helping Sisters Single Mom Empowerment Group.

Thank you, Lynette, for providing practical, useful tips and advice at the Plaza Library. Because of you, we are all better able to track spending trends, develop savings strategies and plan for future financial security.

We appreciate you for donating your personal time and resources. We will see you again soon!

Visit Lynette's website

"10 Money Tips from Mom"
"Tips from Healthy, Wealthy Moms"

Post your favorite money-management resources!

Salmonella lettuce recall: Be safe and knowledgable

Salmonella lettuce recall: Be safe and knowledgable

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Moms Need Friends Too: Identifying Your Own Personal Support Group

Moms Need Friends Too: Identifying Your Own Personal Support Group

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