::Momma Wellness is Important::

                                                               {Photo Credit: Bre'onna of EightyTwo Photography}

As usual, I am inspired by women, their strength, and their story. This post was motivated by Lilly of Daily Craving as she shared her experience with PPD. Her words resonated with all the same feelings that impacted my life years ago. I have over the years shared on this blog about mental health and overall well-being as a Momma. I also recently created this video this past December, with a little more insight into my story.

As I sit and think about this post and what I should share. I get sad. I think about all those feeling and thoughts that I have experienced in that last seven years of motherhood. As Momma's we tend to lose our identity. I am guilty of it. We do so much for everyone else. Back in 2012, I was rushed to the hospital as I experienced a panic attack, it was my eye opening or awakening moment. 

We shouldn't wait for an extreme situation to learn that as momma's, wives, employees, daughters, friends, we need to take care of one person, ourselves. Being a Momma, seeking who you are, seeking your purpose, finding your own identity. It should be our priority. Because as they say if Momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy! You will not find any of this in the outside world but inside of you. In your heart and mind. By being yourself. By seeking to be purpose filled. By not losing your identity as an individual just because you have become a Momma or Wife, or are a student or employee. This doesn't mean you can't be more. You can be. You should be. For you.

Yes, YOU can. 

This past weekend at our event we had three wonderful speakers who I feel embodied the very aspect of taking care of yourself! Today I want to share a little about them and give you their information as viable resources that you can use! Maybe you don't live in Houston but you can reach out to them on social media or seek the same type of people within your local community.

In the same fashion that it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a tribe to keep a Momma sane! 

Meet Dr. Kelley Watts, she spoke on how to transform your negative thoughts and give us tips on how to de-stress.

{Photo Credit: Bre'onna of EightyTwo Photography}

Dr. Kelley Watts

Psychotherapist & Transformational Coach

Kelley received her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Houston. After many experiences elsewhere, including Louisiana, Spain, New York, and England, she has returned to Houston and has a thriving private practice where she works with adolescents, adults, couples and families. In addition, to traditional one-on-one and family counseling, Kelley often works in groups teaching clients skills such as Positive Parenting Strategies, Building Positive Relationships, and Managing Anxiety. She uses a variety of techniques such as narrative therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, eye movement and desensitization (EMDR), and mindfulness to work with each client in a unique and impactful way specifically tailored to their needs at that time in their life. With a passion for developing confidence and building resilience in the people around her, Kelley teaches her clients to dig deep, laugh, play, and engage in meaningful and positive endeavors. She sees people through a kind and strength based lens and is passionate about facilitating positive changes in an effective and efficient manner.

Meet Maggie Schorsch of Texas Fit Chicks, she spoke about fitness for Momma's and how important it is to her:

I'm Maggie a 39yr old mother of two. I am a senior trainer with Texas Fit Chicks boot camp. I became a trainer because I feel all women should love their bodies and know what it feels like to be strong.I have struggled with my health and weight and I know how difficult it can be. I hope to change women's lives by empowering them to be fit and healthy.

Meet Sharon Zapata, CEO & Co-Founder of The Zapata Group, she spoke on wellness over the age of 30 and how to remain motivated:

                                                              {Photo Credit: Bre'onna of EightyTwo Photography}

Sharon is a mom of two boys, married, and studied Communications at the University of Houston-Downtown. She is the CEO & Co-Founder of The Zapata Group. As a successful entrepreneur, author, speaker, and business development expert with 15 + years, her know-how for working with people of all professional backgrounds allows her to connect & offer them impressive business development contacts, customers & bottom-line revenue to build their own economies.

She has international experience as a private English Teacher for C-Level Executives in Monterrey, N.L. MEXICO and U.S. Government Security Clearance from the Office of Federal Investigation in Washington, D.C. while working for E.X.I.M. Bank. Sharon is the author of 12 Secrets for Successful Hispanic Women and How To Escape The Lack of Success...Have You Ever Been Dissatisfied?

She is the Creator & Blogger of The Bitchy Business Briefs. A business & lifestyle micro-blog. Her writing inspires entrepreneurs, out-of-the-box thinkers, creatives and action takers to spank the economy.

She recently led a media campaign: Houston's Veteran Women with her client Houston Media Network. She is the recipient of the 2014 & 2015 Excellence Award on behalf of American Intercontinental University Women's Summit and recipient of the Latina Trend-Setter Award from H.E.R.O.E.S. for her contributions to the Houston business community. She serves on the Education Committee with Susan G. Komen-Breast Cancer Foundation, The American Heart Association's Planning Committee {Latina Leadership Circle} and The Texas Alliance for Military Women {Leadership Circle}.

The Zapata Group helps to feed 300 children, women, and men at Loaves & Fishes with an amazing organization RYG {Reach Youth Global}.

"Why Health Insurance is Important" by Dr. Esteban López for Be Covered Texas #ad

{Please, note this post has been written for my blog by Dr. Esteban Lopez in collaboration with Be Covered Texas.) 

As a father of three and a practicing pediatrician, my family’s health is top of mind every day. I bet you feel the same. But do you know what role health insurance plays in maintaining a healthy lifestyle for you and your kids? While cost can be a major factor in deciding which plan is best for you and your family, there are other factors to consider.

I hope that the information in this article is helpful for you. If you need any additional information, though, please check out Be Covered Texas (BeCoveredTexas.org) for additional educational resources about health insurance and the benefits for your family. And if you don’t currently have insurance or need to renew, now is the time to act. You can enroll in health care coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace or Exchange (healthcare.gov) until January 31.  

Be Covered Texas is an education and outreach campaign, sponsored by Blue Cross and Blue Shied of Texas, working with 68 Houston area (73 Dallas area) non-profit organizations to help Texans understand new health insurance opportunities. Through social media, community events, and the website BeCoveredTexas.org, the campaign provides information in English and Spanish about health insurance, how it works and how to decide what plan fits your family.

What is health insurance?

Health insurance is designed to make health care affordable. You pay a monthly payment called a premium and in exchange the insurance company pays certain costs.

But health insurance also works like a warranty from a car dealership — it pays for routine maintenance, such as certain screenings to check for diabetes or mammograms for early cancer detection to make sure you stay well, and fixes minor things that go wrong from time to time.

Why should your family have health insurance?

Routine care can add up, but the cost for a major illness or injury can be devastating. Health insurance is about covering the expenses that come with preventing illness and staying healthy, and being prepared for the worst that could happen.

Did You Know?

• The average cost of a trip to the emergency room for an adult is about $700, not including any tests or hospitalization, which may increase the bill to more than $1,000.
• Average expenses for childbirth are up to $8,800, and more than $10,000 for C-section delivery.

If you are pregnant, health insurance offers benefits to help you take care of yourself and your baby. With the right plan, you will not have to pay co-pays or added costs for these important services during and after pregnancy:

• Folic Acid supplements
• Gestational diabetes screening
• Rh Incompatibility screening
• Syphilis screening
• Urinary tract or other infection screening
• Expanded counseling for pregnant tobacco users
• Nursing support and counseling
• Access to breastfeeding supplies and equipment

Remember, now is the time to learn more about the health insurance options available to you and your family. Don’t wait for a health scare to consider coverage for the future. For more information on health insurance options for you and your family, visit www.BeCoveredTexas.org.

Solis Mammography’s :: Rethink P.I.N.K. Campaign :: #OctoberAwareness

                                   ::Momma Disclosure:: This is a compensated post. All information provided by PR/Media rep. 

In the month of October, the color pink has become synonymous with National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Everything from consumer products to the NFL is splashed in pink. And for this heightened awareness, the team at Solis Mammography applauds the efforts of so many organizations who work hard to create and maintain this public awareness campaign. And yet, in true ironic form, today’s reality is that too many women  avoid getting their annual mammogram because of the fear and anxiety associated with breast cancer. “Based on extensive research we’ve done with women who do – or do not – get their annual mammogram, we’ve learned that the fear and anxiety associated with the pink ribbon causes too many women to stay away,” says Connie Oliver, VP marketing and client relations for Solis Mammography. “We’ve built our patient services model to try to change that.”

Solis Mammography wants women to reclaim the month of October for national breast health, and dispel the fear and anxiety created around pink ribbons. Solis wants women to know that most women – 7 out of 8 – will not get breast cancer, and that their annual mammogram is a way to focus on empowerment, choice and peace of mind. 

As the nation’s largest independent provider of screening and diagnostics for breast health services, Solis wants women to Rethink P.I.N.K. this October and focus on breast health. In this campaign, the color “pink” is rethought and becomes an acronym, “P.I.N.K.”

    • P=Peace of Mind. Solis Mammography has trademarked the Peace of Mind Mammogram™ to reflect their promise of offering such an exceptional experience that women  won’t avoid getting the mammogram they need. The environment of each center and exceptional quality of patient care offered by specialists in breast imaging leads to peace of mind for the patients they serve.

    • I=Incredible Service. Solis Mammography’s entire team is deeply committed to the women and physicians they serve. From online scheduling and fast results delivered by secure email within 24 to 48 hours, the company is proud to cite that 98 percent of their patients would give them a positive recommendation to family or friends.

    • N=Not what you Expect. While many women associate mammograms with pain, Solis’ breast dedicated technologists are highly trained in breast compression and placement. This results in 89 percent of their patients reporting little to no discomfort during their exam.

    • K=Knowledge is Power. Perhaps most central to the Rethink P.I.N.K. campaign is the common statistic most women cite – that 1 in 8 women will get breast cancer in their lifetime. Solis encourages women to remember that this also means 7 in 8 women will NOT get breast cancer. But if you are the 1 in 8, you want to find any anomaly as EARLY as possible, so that your treatment is as EASY as possible.

            The Entire Month of October including Oct. 16 which is National Mammography Day .

***Note – Many Solis centers are offering extended weekday and Saturday hours during the month of October.  

Where: There are 4 centers across Houston. 

Visit our website to find the most convenient center: http://www.solismammo.com//find-a-center/Texas/HOU

One Solis Mammography client says, “I’m concerned about breast health - for myself, my husband, and my kids. I go to Solis every year because they make it easy for me. I’m in and out quickly, I get my results within a day by email, and I get the peace of mind that comes from knowing I’m all clear for another year.”

About Solis Mammography:

Solis Mammography is a specialized healthcare provider focused exclusively on providing women an exceptional mammography experience. Headquartered in Addison, Texas, Solis currently operates 31 centers across four states – Texas, Arizona, Ohio, and North Carolina. The company operates both wholly owned centers and multiple successful joint ventures with hospital partners. Solis provides a complete range of highly specialized breast health services including screening and diagnostic mammography (2D and 3D), computer-aided detection, breast ultrasound, stereotactic biopsy and ultrasound-guided biopsy.

For more information, visit www.SolisMammo.com, like them on Facebook, follow them on Pinterest, or subscribe to their YouTube channel.

• The staff at Solis is dedicated to providing you with a warm, caring experience.

• The environment at Solis is comfortable and soothing.

• Solis understands that mammography is an intimate test; they are trained to be gentle AND get the best picture of your breast.

• Solis cares about your time! The mammogram takes 5-10 minutes; your entire visit usually takes between 30-45 minutes.

• Results are delivered to you by secure email in 24-48 hours.

• “Solis is focused on understanding your concerns, anxieties and needs. You’ll never be treated like a number at Solis Mammography!”

• Convenient - Solis has multiple locations, so finding a center and scheduling your appointment is easy. Solis provides: Easy-to-make appointments via phone or computer, walk-in appointments are also available. Use the online appointment calendar to quickly book your appointment - choose the time and the day that work best for you. Click here to schedule.

The American Cancer Society recommends that women age 40 and older should have a mammogram every year and should continue to do so for as long as they are in good health. Other organizations cite every other year as the optimal time to get checked. Solis Mammography encourages women to talk to their doctor, explain their unique health history, and make the choice that’s right for them. When they are ready, however, Solis is there to offer an exceptional experience – eliminating stress and anxiety in every way possible.

::Momma Date:: #DANCE

Last week  I took some time off before I started a new job and on Friday I decided to meet up with a friend. At a dance class! That's right, we made plans and I finally visited the famous Crystal Wall MixFitz Studio. 

The experience was amazing. The group of ladies was wonderful. I can't wait to go back! 

Crystal and I first met at the beginning of the year at the "Vision of Love" event here in Houston. I was totally blown away by her passion and her REALNESS. She said something to me on Friday morning that I can't stop thinking about. She said that she lives in North side {Houston} because "it's both a little of the city and a little of the hood." I identify so much with her because of things like this. I grew up in North side Houston but where you live and where you come from have nothing to do with who you will become and where you will go. 

Her personality is so positive and her smile is motivating. She is a Momma like many of us, she is a #BossLady, entrepreneur and businesswoman who is filled with class but keeps it real. I love that about her. 

She is so down to earth and I loved her high energy and ability to teach us all of her choreography. I love that her studio is geared towards women, I felt so comfortable shaking my booty and being ME. Her #1 Rule is "HAVE FUN!" She started her class by reminding us that we should be ourselves, that she was going to rock that workout with her style and personality and that we should give it our own unique all.

Her class is definitely one that I recommend and really any of her instructors and classes look great! 

Thank you to my friend Yvonne from Running in Faith for the shared morning! Loved it all! 

::Vestido Rojo:: #LatinasGoRed

::Momma Disclosure:: {This is a compensated post. I received a special invitation to the Vestido Rojo Luncheon and Fashion Show, in collaboration with American Heart Association. All opinions and statements expressed below are my own and true and honest.}

As Latinas we learn to simply place others needs and wants before our own. I think that naturally as women and Momma's placing others before ourselves, just happens. It isn't something we think about, we just do it. We see it as an example from our own Momma's and so we allow it to happen as the norm. Truth is, while we should care for those around us we should also learn to place our own needs and especially our health first. Not because we are being selfish but because the healthier and stronger we are; the better we can care for our loved ones. 

Last week I was invited by the American Heart Association, to a wonderful event that not only pampers women and makes them feel beautiful but also reminds us of the consequences of not taking care of our health. It was an afternoon of empowerment and encouragement. Where 3 amazing Houston Latina Champions of the Community received special recognition and awards for their work. The always inspiring Dr. Laura G. Murillo, President and CEO Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, told us about her own experiences with Heart disease and the fear of losing her Momma at a young age. 

The afternoon's motto was very fitting:  "Educate, Equip, and Empower" Oh and did I mention the salsa dancing! It was so much fun. As part of the campaign to be more active the afternoon was filled with music and a couple who showed off their moves.

One of the leading causes of death in Latina/Hispanic women is Heart Disease. Not too far behind and walking hand in hand with your heart is Diabetes. As a member of a very large Mexican family I know all too well the grief of both of these illnesses. My Grandmother lost her limbs and life at an early age due to Diabetes and dialysis. And, my Grandfather has had heart surgery due to heart disease and mild heart attacks. Sadly, no matter how much I have tried to avoid it; just this week, I too was diagnosed with Diabetes. I am not one to give in easily so I have already started taking steps to control my disease and regain my health. 

The Houston area American Heart Association has a great website filled with important information for those seeking to better their quality of life or help others get back on track. They have events, resources and way that you too can help contribute or donate. Their site is bilingual and offers recipes, exercise tips and a list of risk factors/symptoms. 

Here are ::THREE: changes I am  already making in order to live a healthier life! What are you doing to create a healthier lifestyle for yourself?

Panic Attacks are Uncool!

Photo Credit: Google Search

Panic attacks are uncool.

Back in 2012, I had the most uncool episode. I had to quit my job. I was faced with a horrible feeling of being beside myself. I was laying in the ladies room at my work place with a good friend/co-worker trying to calm me down. Paramedics filled the bathroom and asked of past history. As I write this I tingle and get clamy. It's not cool ya'll! It's the most horrifying feeling ever. To be in a room but nothing makes sense. Your breathing shortens. Your mind clouds and the moment seems endless. I wasn't dying so I went from work to an ambulance to sitting in a downtown ER for hours. Before being sent home with the diagnosis of "crazy person". Not literally but you know what I mean. It was not the most pleasurable experience. And, it was bit embarrassing.

To this day I see people from my old job and they tell me how that was their last memory of me. Me being wheeled out on a stretcher. 

It's not something that I had warning signs for or that slowly came up with different symptoms. I was a Momma of Dos {2}, working full-time with a Husband who was a student and away for almost 2 months in Utah on an Internship assignment. One day I was in "total control"; running a home and getting occasional help with the kids, living alone for 2 months, working as a full-time Assistant Supervisor helping run an office of about 50 employees and "making it all work".  And, the next day I was sitting in my office in a meeting with my supervisor and a group of other employees when I couldn't breath and had lost it.

It's been over 2 years since that happened. I "took it easy" for a while as recommend by my doctor, but how long can you really "take it easy"? Life is hectic. It's hard to always be in relax mode. Despite doctor's recommendations, I never took medication for my "condition". Instead I got a new job, less stressful, and started a new type of lifestyle. Still, life is life. 

These days, the moments of panic come and go. I have learned to control them and manage my day to day with them. I have learned that if  a place is too crowed or stuffy and small, I get a little more nervous and anxious. But, overall I try to make my "overwhelming" situation into one that I can control.

Here are 3 simple ways that I control my panic attacks;

1) ::Breathing Exercises:: Some times I know it's all in my mind, I take deep breaths slowly get up and walk away from the room or what I am thinking and try to relax my mind. It's a rush of nervousness that fills my brain and it quickly travels to all other areas of my being. So, I feel it coming on and I sit back and tell myself it's going to be OK. Some days that works, others I have to get up and walk around or find a quiet place to just relax for a few minutes.

2) ::Asking for Help:: I used to be scared to ask others for help. I hate being a burden. I don't like bothering others, everyone is busy. But, I found that for the most part if I simply ask, people are more than willing to help me. I don't do it often but when I do I make sure that it's for something important. These days, I am always scared people will say no, and they do but I just keep asking around and eventually someone will be available and can help me!  It's also not easy if you don't have too many friends or family that live close by. I have also learned to voice my need for help to my Husband, who then will give me a hand or take on extra time with the kids.

3) ::Take Time Off:: I have learned to just have days where nothing is going on. To relax, catch up on sleep and enjoy the nothingness. It's hard to do as a Momma and some days are better than others. But, even if it's a few extra hours to sleep in or just lay on the couch and relax, I do it. I try to because life becomes busy, very quickly. That's exhausting and draining. And, it affects my level of anxiety. Taking advantage of down time is key in getting your mind clear.

All of these changes help me, the biggest help is seeking medical assistance and/or counseling. I would never have thought of all this on my own, it's something I have learned from different health care professionals.

It has been easier to  manage my everyday. Life can be so stressful but there is always a way.  Never give up on yourself. It might not be easy but it will be worth it. 

Stay Healthy and Be Fit #MolinaHealthcare #ad #client

::Momma Disclosure:: { The opinions in this article are my own. I do not work for, or with, any brand mentioned in this article, nor do I have any official relationship with them. I have a relationship with GigaSavvy, for whom I create original editorial content.  I am  also not a healthcare professional, the statements below are simply from experience and may not work for everyone, some people may require a medical doctors opinion before beginning a new fitness regimen. }

It happens to the best of us! 

We get on a health binge and then slowly start to fall off the wagon. It's normal, we have busy lives filled with work, children, bosses, and well everyday life situations. As a Momma it's never easy to stick to one routine or a routine at all. Most my days no matter how organized and scheduled I want to be are thrown off with just about anything. 

In the last few months, sadly, I am one of those people that not only fell of the wagon but jumped off and ran! I know. Shame. Thankfully, I have learned the ways to get back to on track and help me fight the lazies I have been feeling lately. 

It's so important to have the support of your family, so if you are married and/or have kids make sure you announce it to them. That you will be starting a new health routine and you want everyone to help and stick to it. It helps to know you are not alone. 

 1. Create a weekly meal plan; there are so many websites out there with great everyday easy meals, Molina Healthcare provides great expert advice and tips for eating healthy and staying fit. It's a great quick reference. I then make my shopping lists based on the ideas that I find. And, then plan out my weekly meals. It helps SO much! 

2. Have plenty of healthy snacks; One of the things that I know about myself is that if I don't bring good healthy snacks I will turn to the vending machine. We have another snack room but the food there is so expensive. So, I buy things like cheese sticks, yogurt, and fruits like bananas or apples. It is a sure way for me to stay away from junk food or spending too much on expensive snacks that I can buy for cheaper at the grocery store. A great place for ideas is Molina Healthcare .

3. Drink a lot of water; A lot! It helps you feel full and is so good for detox! I hear so many different recommendations. Drinking half your weight or a gallon a day or 8 glasses a day, or twice that amount if you are super active. I do as much as I can and I set a goal for myself. 4 bottles in an 8 hour work day and 2 after work. Something simple I know I will be able to keep up with. 

4. Workout for at least 30 minutes a day; Hard I know. But, start slow. When I have to get back in shape I start with a 30 minute walk. Again I give myself a goal, small one, and go from there. I for example calculate that 30 minutes is a few blocks down from my house and a lap around the trail and back home. I then build on that or start thinking of it in mileage. I was up to 5 miles a or more a day. A great way to keep track of this and be motivated is by using a step-counter. There are so many. I used a simple $20.00 one from the nearest grocery store.  Unitl I threw it in the washer one too many times.  Start small and go big! 

5. Keep a photo journal for motivation; YES, PHOTOS. I take them with my cell phone and then refer to them when I want to see progress or in my case now, when I want to get back on track. What you look like impacts how you feel. I know that if I think I look good in pictures, I feel amazing. Trust me, it's hard. I don't want to look at most my pictures but when I do it helps me be reminded of where I started and how far I have gone. 

6. Create a support group; In my case I created a small FB group where I added ladies who were also trying to be healthy and stay fit. It has REALLY helped, those ladies are amazing. Most of them are Momma's themselves and they have the best advice and supportive words! We are in it together and it makes me feel like I am not alone in this journey and like I can ask for motivation when needed. It doesn't have to be on FB it can be a friend, a cousin, a Sister, a neighbor; anyone you feel comfortable sharing with and who you know will keep you accountable. That is so important! 

7. Accountability partner; I have one or two friends who I email or text daily. It is so important to have that 1 person who is truly supporting you and wants to see you succeed. They will push you when you are not feeling motivated and they will remind you that you don't have to give up. It's such a great way to move forward on days when you just can't. Feeling accountable to that person will be motivation in itself, personally I don't want to disappoint my friends so I try to complete those tasks that I say I will do! Of course this should not be a stressful situation and that person should be positive and supportive anything is just not worth it. 

8. Set goals; write it down, I am a very visual person so I have to have things written down. I am a sort of a list maker. Start small,like I will walk 30 minutes this week, drink more water and cut out fries. Then check your goals monthly, are you reaching your weekly goals and which can you increase and how can you surpass your previous goals. You can make lists cross off items and make new lists with bigger and better goals. BUT, don't worry if you don't reach all your goals in a week or a month, fitness is a constant job. Be fit and staying healthy is an every day one step at a time kind of lifestyle. You should be ready on every level; mentally, physically and emotionally. 

9. Have fun! I always say...it's not that serious. Whatever your "it" maybe, it really isn't. Working out should not be a chore and if you no longer enjoy it that you should take a break. Doing something you really like as part of your work out is important, it will keep you motivated and easier to make this a good happy time. You don't want to burn yourself out though, having a varied routine that YOU like is important. There should be a good balance that you agree upon and want to do! 

10. Make some time to relax and rest; it's so important. I often forget to rest and just relax and become so involved in doing that I end up stressing out about having to workout.  You should want to work out and if you feel like you need a break then take one. You know your body better than anyone. You don't want to cause yourself harm and you want to be in full balance of body, mind and spirit. Otherwise you will not be engaged long and it will result in frustrating ups and downs. So, make sure you schedule some down time into your schedule and follow through with it. 

As mentioned before, this process is an everyday job. You must work on it everyday. And, if you fall off track well simply start over! No biggie. No one has a set timeline for you and you will know when and how to start. 

::Healthy Me:: #MommaFitness

In 2012 I went through a lot. I had postpartum depression almost a year after my daughter was born.

It was so evident. 

On my drive to work. I would cry. On my drive home. I would cry. While I was at work. I cried. Nothing seemed good. Everything was wrong. I accused my Husband of not being a good enough Husband. I didn't sleep or slept too much. I was sad. I was depressed. A lot. All the time, for months.

I went to therapy all Summer that year. For 4 months, I was seeing a Psychologist. 

And, you know what she taught me and what I learned?

How to deal with my depression. Not how to cure it but how to manage everyday life through it and despite of it. There was no real cure for my kind of "crazy".

Honestly. It worked.

Talking to that person who was on the outside looking in; into my work life, into my Marriage and into my family as a unit was indeed relief. I was able to freely express to her what was going on. I never felt judged and I never felt like I didn't trust her.

That same year in September I had a panic attack. I quit my job and made changes. In 2013 my resolution was to take more care of ME. As a Woman, as a Wife, as  Momma. Me. I made a great effort. I know I succeed in some ways. But, this year I want to make a BIGGER AND BETTER effort!

So, here are 5 things I will do this year to ensure that I take care of ME:

1.) Exercise MORE : It's been my stress reliever for MONTHS now. I feel good and happy after I run, walk, Zumba or do Insanity! I went to the gym for a whole month and I loved it! I will start back up in February. It's a great way to feel confident and good about myself, my health and my well being.

2.) Create more ME time: I am not one to sit around and do nothing. Never have been but it's SO needed sometimes. Just forget about work, forget about the mess, and just relax and enjoy. I don't do enough. But, I was watching American Idol this week and I just sat. Didn't care about the mess the kids were making or what kind of mess my Hubby was making in the kitchen while cooking. I just sat.

3.) Schedule Date Nights with my Hubby: Now I say schedule because finding a baby sitter is like pulling teeth. A long drawn out process that no one wants to do, HA! So, the Hubby and I will have our first date this Saturday and as the year goes by we will continue our resolution from last year to have and make more alone time. We deserve it.

4.) Have Girl's Night Out more often:  I love my Momma friends and must stay connected to relate-able, wonderful women who do it all. So that I can learn to be a little better at what I do. My Momma friends inspire me and allow me to be ME. There is no judgment and we love to share, never compare. I get great advice and words of comfort. I am reassured and refreshed with their sincere love and honest opinions. Plus they help remind me of my goals as a Momma and a Wife but more importantly as a friend.

5.) Volunteer more! One of my favorite things to do is Volunteer work, there is something about helping other that makes my heart happy and give me pure joy. It's something I have done since High School and in College it was a bigger reward as I grew and matured. Giving, humbles us and creates a healthy sense of self. I love being involved an a part of my community and making a difference in any way possible! Since my children were born I have limited my Volunteer work to once or twice a year but this year I want to up that and even get my family involved! I think it will be awesome for all of us!!

As Wives and Momma's so many depend on us and look up to us, the only way we can ensure that we will be able to be there for others in a healthy and sane manner is by taking care of ourselves. At almost 33 years old my lessons have all been learned too well. There are plenty of things still to be learned and worked on.

But, I take it one day at a time!

What about you? What are you doing this year to take care of YOU?!

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