Kingdom Moms 2022 Spring Publication

EXCLUSIVE MAGAZINE

KINGDOM

MOMS Spring 2022

Out of The

BOX FASHION MIND, BODY, AND SOUL

THE SECRET TO SELF CARE

SHALENA DUDLEY YOUR SEASON OF MANIFESTED PROMISES

hey!

GIRL

As we are close to the end of the first quarter of 2022, I want to give you permission to take a moment to breathe. We came into 2022 hitting the ground running! We had goals, plans, deadlines, expectations, strategies and we worked non-stop.

Sooooo, take a second and breathe!!! In fact SistaMom, take a moment and celebrate yourself.

Whether you acknowledge it or not, your hard work is paying off. Congratulations to you!

I want to remind each of you that this is STILL your season of Manifested Promises! The private petitions that you have before God will not go unanswered. God has been strengthening us during the waiting process. He’s not a man that He would lie. If you’re waiting for Him to move in your situation, don’t lose FAITH!!!! He is a promise keeper. His strength is made perfect in our weaknesses. During this season, He is perfecting some things concerning us. We must position ourselves for what’s next. Whatever you do…don’t waiver and don’t give in. This next quarter belongs to you!!! Say that with me…This next quarter belongs to ME!!!

LOVE,

ShalenaDudley

TABLE

CONTENTS OF

pg1. fashion pg7. education pg11. inspiration pg13. health/wellness KINGDOM MOMS MAG

fashion Studies show that 60% of mothers don’t pay much attention to their outward appearance after having children.

- DERRICK FINKLEA

Studies show that 60% of mothers don’t pay much attention to their outward appearance after having children. Even after the child grows up, some mothers still tend to not put much effort into how they dress or how they present themselves.

But not over here in the Kingdom Moms Tribe! I truly believe that this community is built of strong, confident, beautiful, stylish moms, who push past the limits in their careers and have a great fashion

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sense. However, if you find that you are in need of a little help when it comes down to your fashion life, don’t worry! I have a tip for you that’s going to cause you to thrive as it relates to your appearance.

I wrote a book titled “What a Woman Wants, What a Woman Needs” at the end of 2021 and one of the chapters in my book is entitled “Comfort Zone”. Staying in your comfort zone can feel good and can also cause you to be mediocre but, I want to give you a look that fits your own aesthetic and can push you into a new style. Mixing prints! It isn’t a new thing in fashion; it has actually been around for decades but the way it can be styled is timeless. Contrary to critics, mixing prints is fairly easy, you are just going to gather prints that are completely opposite from each other and mix them together, the key is to not match.

For beginners, I like to tell my clients to start off simple by starting with a black and white foundation. It can be a black and white polka dot or a black and white stripe. The great thing is we are in a colder season so you can layer up!

If you are not a fan of mixing on top of each other you can break it up. For example, you can wear a polka dot pencil skirt and a striped tapered blazer, and you can pair it with a white collar shirt to complete the look. It’s all about having fun and adding your own personal style into it!

After having and raising children, you can still be beautiful and confident and push past the limits of your comfort zone in ways that you never have before.

Contrary to critics, mixing prints is fairly easy!

MIXED PRINTS

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Extra! Extra!

READ ALL ABOUT IT! Dr. Kirstin Berglund

When you hear the word “reading,” what comes to mind? For some, it brings a sense of joy and excitement, for others it may cause a sense of dread as you recall the books you were forced to read in school and did not enjoy, and others may long to read for enjoyment but simply do not have time or energy to do so. For moms, the word “reading” may elicit a range of emotions from excitement about your child who loves to read to frustration with your child who cannot stand to read. It is also common for moms to experience anxiety if their child struggles to read.

No matter what your feelings are with respect to reading, there are always ways to make your experiences better, both to enrich yourself and your child! Here are some tips to help make reading something you can not only fit into your day, but something you (and your child) can enjoy!

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Find something you want to read.

The same goes for your child! Though most of us may automatically think about books when we think about reading, remember that reading daily devotionals, newspapers, magazines, blogs, and poetry (to name just a few things) all count! The same goes for your child. He or she may prefer to read a graphic novel, comic book, or online articles about their interests. When children feel like they have options, they are more likely to enjoy reading.

2.

Set realistic goals.

Moms are busy, and so are kids. Therefore, be purposeful about making time to read. Even reading just ten minutes a day when you wake up, during a break at work, or before bed will give you time to enjoy an entertaining article, continue a chapter of a book, or read a short story, an inspirational poem, or a daily devotional. Set a realistic goal for your child as well. If you are not sure how long your child should spend reading each day, talk to his or her teacher for suggestions.

3.

Talk to your kids about what you are reading and ask them questions about what they are reading, too Moms are busy, and so are kids. Therefore, be purposeful about making time to read. Even reading just ten minutes a day when you wake up, during a break at work, or before bed will give you time to enjoy an entertaining article, continue a chapter of a book, or read a short story, an inspirational poem, or a daily devotional. Set a realistic goal for your child as well. If you are not sure how long your child should spend reading each day, talk to his or her teacher for suggestions.

4.

Read with your kids.

5.

Read with your kids.

If you have a young child, read a book to him or her each day before bedtime or during some other downtime during your day. If your child is older, consider reading the same book as he or she is reading.

Not only will this give you an opportunity to have great discussions about the book, but your child will almost definitely think it is cool that their mom is reading the same thing as they are!

If you have questions about what to read, whether for yourself or your child and do not know where to start, there are people who can help.

Teachers, school librarians, public librarians, and book store employees have a wealth of knowledge and can answer many of your questions related to reading. In addition, public libraries and bookstores often have programs for adults and children to make reading a fun part of your daily routine. Finally, do not be afraid to talk to other moms! Many moms have been through the same things you are going through and will have great ideas to help!

EDUCATION

1.

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special RAISING A CHILD WITH

seizures. I had never witnessed a seizure in a newborn and had no idea this is what my baby is doing. After a call to my husband explaining what I witnessed, we called the

by KIM NORWOOD Pediatrician, there had to be I am a mom of three beautiful, talented children, all some explanation to what I girls, ranging from Elementary to High School. Raising witnessed. Once at the doctor’s office, they quickly realized we children is a challenge; but one with special needs can needed specialized help, and sent us to the Emergency Room at the take this saying to an entirely different level.

Children’s Hospital. As we made the drive to the hospital, a million My personal journey started after the birth of my third thoughts were running through my head, one to this day I can recall, child. Early 2012, we just celebrated the six week “Why is this happening to us?...” This was the start of additional check-up for our last princess; everything was great at hospital stays, countless hours on the road to Specialists the well-baby appointment! As a nursing mom, hearing appointments, trials of medications, addition of therapy visits, support group, respite care, and the abundance of paperwork. My youngest from the doctor that her weight was increasing was child is Autistic, Epileptic, Intellectually Disabled, Infantile Spasms, and always magical to hear! I was preparing for my return has a rare Genetic Disorder. to work and I noticed something different happening with my baby over the course of one week.

I remember sitting in the hospital cafeteria and thinking to myself, I cannot do this…, God is not going to give me more than I can bear…. I I thought the ceiling fan and lights were capturing her begin to question if I could handle everything associated with being a attention more than the face of mom, but eventually parent of a child with special needs. I later realized and reminded myself the staring at the ceiling fan and lights paired with her often that “I am beautifully crafted in His image” and “He isn’t going to little body tightening, shaking, and then exhaustion. give me more than I can bear without Him.” I had to remind myself, God This cycle of her symptoms progressed over the next has equipped me to be able to do all things, through Him, that few days from silent seizures to full grand mal strengthens me.

NEEDS

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I remember sitting in the hospital cafeteria and thinking to myself, I cannot do this…, God is not going to give me more than I can bear….

As I navigate this new part of my life, early lessons helped me live my Best Mom Life: Seek a support group – You are not alone! There are parents with special needs children and can offer amazing suggestions. It also feels great to talk with others going through similar ebbs and flows of parenting and hearing how they overcome them..

Early Intervention is key –

Prior to age three, we needed a learning plan; Babies Can’t Wait helped us to develop an IFEP (Individual Family Education Plan). We were able to have in-home therapy, a coordinator for medical needs, and someone to help us with paperwork

Self time –

This support is priceless! Sometimes you need a break to run errands, or just sleep. Family members, churches, and other organizations can help. You need to take time for yourself; a parent’s mental health is crucial

yourself; a parent’s mental health is crucial

Enjoy the moments – Special needs kids give the best hugs, smiles, and kisses. Take time to enjoy the funny times, laugh aloud, and create lasting memories kids do grow up fast.

Remain calm – The diagnosis can be shocking and frightening but do not panic! Do the research of your child's disability; no one can advocate better than you can.

We have navigated through many early interventions and plans to help support our family and we are still surviving. It does take a village, (a selective one) when raising a child with special needs and I am thankful for the one that continues to help guide me through.

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LOVE TENISHA Inspiration

with TENISHA KYLER

LoveTenisha Podcast is a space of spiritual impact. It is a virtual room for individuals who have placed their spiritual growth as priority. Through the explication of scriptures, LoveTenisha gracefully challenges you in obedience, love, integrity, and so much more.

Season 01. Ep. 01 | What or Who has your IDENTITY been attached to?

This introductory episode discusses how we subconsciously misplace our identities in people, careers, family, money, and so much more—rather than placing them in our CREATOR. Society encourages us to get lost in our successes, connections, and relationships and the danger of that is, if any of it is taken away, our IDENTITY goes along with it. That is NOT the will of God for our lives. Never attach your Identity to anything, or anyone, that can be taken away! Our Identity must be rooted in Christ!

Scriptures for thought: John 10:28 “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.”

Galatians 2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives IN me. And the life I now live in flesh, I live by faith in the son of God who loved me and GAVE HIMSELF FOR ME.” Who wouldn’t want to root his/her identity in the ONE who gave His entire life for YOU? We are valuable because we were purchased by the blood of Jesus! The titles of wife, mom, boss, sister, cousin, and friend are great, and rewarding—but they don’t make us valuable. The only title and position that makes us valuable is DAUGHTER OF GOD! And, because our position in HIM can never be taken away—we can safely root our identities in Him, forever!

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Season 01. Ep. 02. | TACKLING FEAR Fear: “an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat” Fear is an enemy! Hear me, Kingdom Moms: It is NOT your friend. It is imprisoning and paralyzing, mentally, emotionally, but most dangerous--spiritually. It attempts to hinder every believer from walking fully into purpose.

This episode helps you understand why Satan fights you so hard to keep you in a state of anxiousness, doubt, and insecurity—which are ALL rooted in FEAR. Prayers to pray to combat fear: “Lord, help me to remain open and ready to be stretched. Help me to be a person that pursues growth.”

“Lord, help me to be confident and courageous about being an example of blazing trails!”

“Lord, thank you that I’m a generational curse-breaker, and I will remain committed to renewing my mind through reading your word.”

“Lord, thank you that I’m accepting of new relationships, whether business or personal, trusting that you gifted me with the spirit of discernment. I will not fear pain, rejection, or abandonment.

“Lord, thank you that I’ve released the need to control every detail of my life. Your Word tells me to cast my cares on you (1 Peter 5:7). Your Word also tells me to take NO thought for tomorrow, because tomorrow has worries of its own (Matthew 6:25-34). So, thank you that I relax in your GOODNESS knowing you have every detail working together for my good!

(Romans 8:28)

*The full episodes of Identity and Fear can be found on Youtube, Facebook, Spotify, or Podbean: LoveTenisha Podcast. You can also visit the website: LoveTenisha.com for more information.

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mind

BODY

soul

by DAWN FORD

The Bible reminds us in 1st Corinthians 6:19-20 that our bodies are not our own.

– What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit which is in you, which ye have God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your Spirit, which are God’s.

With sincere dedication, we can attain a body that will honor our Heavenly Father and make us feel complete spiritually, physically, and mentally.

As busy moms, we are pulled in so many directions… we wear so many “hats” throughout our day, that sometimes we forget to take time out to focus on our own well-being. This can only be accomplished by making deliberate decisions as we move throughout our day.

A balanced routine is the key if you want to enhance your body spiritually, physically, and mentally. As you begin your day, even before you open your eyes, praise and thank your Heavenly Father for all of His love, mercy and strength.

Then, find a consistent and quiet spot where you can spend time in the Word first thing in the morning before anyone is awake—In Proverbs 8:17, the Lord tells us, “ I love them that love me, and those that seek me early shall find me.”

Another way to keep yourself in shape spiritually is to create a prayer journal so that you can be intentional about those for whom you are praying. Then, when God answers your prayers, go back and document His answers in your journal to remind you of the infinite mercy with KINGDOM MOMS MAG | 9

which God showers us. This always brings me so much joy as I am reminded of all of the tiny miracles that God so effortlessly answers.

In order to feed the physical side of your body, it is best to get up and get MOVING and stay moving throughout the day. I usually do a 3 to 5 minute core workout before completing a 20 to 35 minute calorie burn on an elliptical or treadmill. This will get your metabolism jump-started. Try walking at a good pace while listening to music that inspires your workout.

Once the physical body has been fed, you must feed the mental side of your body. For this, I use essential oils that help prepare me for the day ahead. I love to use a blend that de-stresses me and helps me focus. I make sure to reapply as needed throughout the day. An additional way to support your mental health is laughter. Find a friend, go for an easy walk and talk about your day – make sure you laugh as much as possible. Laughter releases endorphins that make you feel incredible. Think about the last time that you laughed so hard that your belly hurt…now, think about how you felt after that. Daily laughter is the key component to your metal health.

As you can see, physical, mental, and spiritual well-being are attainable. First and foremost, start your day with the LORD. Second, get in a feel-good workout. Finally, anoint yourself with pure essential oils and laugh till your belly aches with a sister in Christ. This is my daily recipe for overall wellness. I pray that you will develop your own routine to attain your BEST you.

S

elfcare is a family affair!

As moms, we hit the ground running and try keeping up with the honey bees until our heads hit the pillows. At some point, we have to slow down and appreciate the bodies that help us care for our loved ones.

A few years ago, I started being more intentional about what my husband, our girls and I were putting into and onto our bodies. My daughters had terrible eczema outbreaks when they were small. Living in upstate New York with cool autumns and harsh winters doesn’t make it any easier.

Even though they were eating a balanced, healthy diet, the girls kept breaking out. Eventually, I got tired of spending money on all of the expensive creams that weren’t working, and I created my own body butter. I said a prayer, and hoped for the best.

The next thing I knew, their rashes had cleared to reveal their beautiful baby skin! That's when I knew that plantbased products would be the secret sauce to my family’s success.

by TIFFANY HARRIS

I’m a licensed cosmetologist, occupational therapist, and lymphedema therapist. I’ve studied and continue to learn so much about the human body that I can’t help but lean towards doing things in a healthier way.

Once the body butters took off, I kept researching and created body washes, scrubs and oil blends that everyone in the family could use to pamper themselves. My team and I developed fun, natural scents for kids and just this year released a haircare line. Now, my customers are using Whip My Butta from head to toe!

Now, I’m not just taking care of my family, I’m taking care of others, too. I educate my clients on proper skin and hair care, how to use my products, and how certain ingredients might benefit them overall.

I might wear a lot of hats, but I sleep better when I know that I’ve prioritized my family’s health… and mine, too.

Once my friends fell in love with my whipped body butters, I saw that my formula could help other moms like me and people with eczema. I was so excited to uncover the mystery of natural ingredients for myself!

All of a sudden, I had formed a plant-based body butter company - Whip My Butta Organics. It wasn’t what I’d initially set out to do, but when you’re called to serve others, you answer the call.

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H A P P Y

WOMEN’S

History Month

Single

MOMMIN’

by KIMBERLY BILLINGS

At the tender age of 25, I had my daughter; she was my rainbow baby, and I was finally happy to become a mom. I was very excited but very nervous at the same time. I had suffered a miscarriage two years prior and was very nervous about carrying another child because I was so scared it would result in the same result as before. But my God was faithful, and everything I prayed for came true for me. Although I was happy to have my daughter, it was unfortunate because my mother had passed away seven years prior, and I had dreamed of the day when she would be there for me when I had my first child.

My daughter was the best baby ever. She never cried, and I always said that God knew I needed a little girl to soften me up.

I had this wall up because I hadn't really dealt with the passing of my mother but just kept going because it kept my mind from wandering and becoming depressed about the situation. I put my all into my daughter and put my dreams on the back burner because I wanted to be a great mother and do my best at raising her.

Two years passed, and I was hit with another blow. My daughter's father passed away in a car crash. I began to wonder what I was doing wrong for this to be happening again to me. I began to go into overdrive with being a parent to compensate for her father not being here and the guilt I felt that she would

not have a father in her life. I started to imagine what she would not experience because her father was not around and the mere fact that she didn't deserve this at all. I has all sorts of thoughts running through my head. How would I be able to give her the love of two parents? Would I be able to give her what she needs emotionally? All kinds of thoughts ran through my head.

Those feelings were short-lived because my dad and male friends stepped up so that she wouldn't miss a beat. My dad showed up for dances, games, and just because he thought of her while at school. My male friends showed up as well, so she would have two or more male figures at any event most of the time. My sister is also a big up because she steps in along with my other aunts when I can't be there. I call them my village, and they help me raise this amazing little girl.

The village allows me to get back to loving myself to be a great mother to my daughter, allowing me to step away when necessary to reboot and charge my energy. God knew what he was doing when he gave my daughter to me because I have been through the same situation with losing a parent. He knew I would connect and understand her in so many ways.

With the help of my village, I am currently in school to pursue a degree in education and Human Services. I consider myself a late bloomer because I am older attending college, but I am in the right place at the right time. I am also working on a blog to help single mothers learn little self-care moments throughout the week. My Blog is called Your Time By Kim. Here are some tips that help me with my daughter: always have a space to be transparent with your child; even if it gets uncomfortable, it is necessary. Therapy has helped us, this gives her a space outside of me to process her thoughts, and I do the same thing. We also go on little retreats to remember her dad around his birthday to keep his memory alive. I do this so she knows I support her in any way she wants to celebrate him. My favorite saying is, "Just put one foot in front of the other, and God will help me the rest of the way."

available NOW PURCHASE TODAY

SHALENA DUDLEY

TENISHA KYLER

DR. KIRSTIN BERGLUND

DERRICK FINKLEA

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

EDUCATION COLUMNIST

TIFFANY HARRIS HEALTH / WELLNESS COLUMNIST

DAWN FORD HEALTH / WELLNESS COLUMNIST

INSPIRATIONAL COLUMNIST

FASHION COLUMNIST

KIM NORWOOD LIFESTYLE COLUMNIST

KIMBERLY BILLINGS LIFESTYLE COLUMNIST

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