MomsTown News FEB 2021

FEBRUARY 2021 | VOL II

LOCAL MOM

pouring

family wine business into the

We have clients in escrow! We have clients in escrow!We have clients in escrow!We have clients in escrow!We have clients in escrow!

We have clients in escrow!We have clients in escrow!We have clients in escrow!We have clients in escrow!We have clients in escrow!

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MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

Welcome to MomsTown!

In the month of love, we aptly chose the theme “Love Life.” This theme can be viewed from several different angles; love your life, your romantic love life, and loving life. Our cover story, featuring Maureen and Skip Coomber of Coomber Family Wines, is a blend of all three. In our interview with Maureen, she shares their story of building a family business around passion. She shares her love for family, a love for wine and a love for our local community. A taste for good wine starts on page 16.

Also, this month — getting organized as an act of self-love is the theme in this month’s article by Tracy Paye, AKA Miss Organized.

Local Mom, Sally Soricelli helps us bring a little more love and warmth into our homes with some easy and affordable decorating tips. Karen Fernandez shares pointers on getting kids to love learning.

We also recognize the hardships facing moms who have been displaced in the workforce. We bring to you excerpts from our interviews on MomsTown365, The Daily 10-Minute Podcast for Mom Creators. Marketable Mama founder, Emily Stark is helping moms with their resumes and we learn how one mom upskills her way into a job allowing her the flexibility of remote working with a paycheck that honors her abilities. In our article, “Rising to Success,” Nicole Route calls the opportunity, “The holy grail for me and my family.”

On that note, MomsTown365 is hitting its stride. January was a month when MomsTown365 surged in downloads and unique listeners. If you’re a mom interested in creating your own podcast, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Podcast@MomsTown.com. We’re launching The MomsTown Podcast Network and bringing together a chorus of mom podcasters to the microphone and to the network. Let’s grow together!

We also want to extend our gratitude to our sponsors, who make it possible to share stories and the tips, tricks, shortcuts and breakthroughs from our expert contributors.

Let’s stay in touch! Head over to MomsTown.com and sign up for our newsletter.

Reach out. Tell us about you. MomsTown is dedicated to shining a light on you! Be Bold! Be Creative! Love Life!

Warmly, Heather & Mary

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

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THE FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE | VOL II

ISSUE

MOMSTOWN IS A COMMUNITY OF MOM CREATORS ON A MISSION TO INSPIRE & MOTIVATE. MOMS CREATE FAMILIES, COMMUNITIES, ART, CULTURE, BUSINESS, FOOD, TRADITIONS & SO MUCH MORE—

FEEDING OUR CHILDREN

P. 07

TEACHING THE LOVE OF READING

P. 08

CHANGING THE WAY WE USE BABY REGISTRIES

P. 09

5 steps schools are taking to feed children Local mom, Karen Fernandez, makes reading fun A mom on a mission

BUILDING HEART-HEALTHY HABITS IN PRESCHOOLERS P. 10

Nutrition & physical activity tips based on national studies

RECIPES:

LEARN HOW YOU CAN BE FEATURED BY MARY & HEATHER

P. 1 1

▶ Spiced Ginger Mocktail ▶ Carmelized Onion Hummus ▶ Quinoa Salad w/Orange & Cilantro Dressing ▶ GREAT GRAPES: Spinach, Chicken & Grape Pita & Grape & Salmon Power Salad

COVER STORY: COOMBER FAMILY WINERY

P. 16

Local mom pours love into the family wine business

RISE: THE MOM PROJECT

P. 20

5 CRUCIAL STEPS FOR RETURNING TO WORK

P. 22

HELPING OUT-OF-WORK MOMS

P. 23

Scholarship program for upskilling & elevating women of color Emily Stark’s tips on returning to work in today’s environment Owner of Marketable Mama, Emily Stark, offers 20 ideas

SMART MONEY MAMAS Hedge fund mama leaves high-paying career for more purpose

CREATIVE TEAMS What you need to know about working with a creative team

P. 24 P. 25 P. 26

BUILDING STRENGTH & A BUSINESS Mom uses yoga to rebuild strength after major health setback

LOVE YOUR LIFE

GO TO MOMSTOWN.COM & SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER

Health strategist, Lauren Chante, specializes in wellness coaching

P. 27

ADD LOVE & WARMTH TO YOUR HOME

P. 28

ORGANIZING IS AN ACT OF SELF LOVE

P. 29

5 simple tips for adding a little warmth to your home decor Author, Tracy Paye, offers quick tips on organizing

CONTRIBUTORS FOUNDERS & EDITORIAL DIRECTORS

PUBLISHER

Mary Goulet & Heather Reider

Inspired Media, Inc.

GRAPHIC DESIGN/LAYOUT

ADVERTISING

Reproduction or duplication of any part herein requires written permission from Publisher (Inspired Media, Inc).

All information herein is correct to the best of Publisher’s knowledge as of publication date. Corrections should be forwarded to Publisher at: PrintingandMail@gmail.com.

Paid advertisements or advertorials herein are not endorsed or recommended by Publisher; therefore, Publisher shall not be held liable for business practices of advertisers. Publisher or MomsTown, Inc. not liable for images or content accepted in good faith.

Dana Grizzél — MADink Agency © copyright MOMSTOWN 2021

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Advertising@MomsTown.com OR Call (760) 445-2022

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

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For Information email us: Podcast@MomsTown.com

Join us 2021 BETTER

TOGETHER!

We're launching a Network of Mom Podcasters Our mission at MomsTown is to shine a light on mom creators, every day, 365 days of the year. We want to shine a light on you.

Tell us about what you’re creating.

Together, MomsTown and Simplecast will be bringing you great shows that make a difference and working to make a difference for the podcasters who join us!

We share stories in print and on our signature podcast, MomsTown 365.

If you’re an aspiring podcaster or have an existing podcast please don’t hesitate to reach out.

The MomsTown Podcast Network is dedicated to helping you start and grow your show! Reach out to us at Podcast@MomsTown.com.

We are excited to announce MomsTown is partnering with one of podcasting industry’s leading companies to build something special. We’re partnering with Simplecast to build The MomsTown Podcast Network. The network will bring together new and seasoned podcasters. All of the shows will be dedicated to delivering content that inspires, informs and entertains.

We also look forward to featuring your podcast on our signature show, MomsTown 365, The Daily 10-Minute Podcast for Mom Creators!

Simplecast, recently acquired by SiriusXM and Pandora, is one of the industry’s leading podcast hosting and distribution companies.

Our aim at Simplecast has always been to build the best tools for publishing and insights so podcast creators can thrive–whether that means scaling their audience, generating revenue, reaching a specific niche, or any other goal they set their sights on when they launched their show...More resources and our new teammates will allow us to improve our product and execute against our roadmap faster than ever before. We can’t wait to show you what we’ve got in store! —Simplecast

Podcasters

Wanted 6

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

schools 5 steps are taking

to feed children

Nearly 30 million children in the United States rely on school meals for a significant portion of their daily nutrition. Since the start of the pandemic, the number of food-insecure children has increased 20% to 1 in 4. Although many schools are operating remote or hybrid models, most are still open full-time for feeding students.

An issue-framing report by GENYOUth, a national nonprofit dedicated to creating healthier school communities, addresses what’s at stake for schools today, progress that has been made, challenges they face and key opportunities that exist.

Due to COVID-19, school nutrition professionals, bus drivers and volunteers are taking measures to distribute and deliver school meals through a variety of methods that enable social distancing, including grab and go, bus stop drop off and drive-thru pickup.

CREATING EXTENDED MEAL PICKUP TIMES During the initial lockdown, many families were home and had greater flexibility to pick up meals during a narrow window of time; however, as people return to more typical work schedules, their availability to take advantage of provided meals is compressing. Some districts are expanding, even doubling, their pickup windows to provide greater access for families.

ELIMINATING BARRIERS TO PROVIDING MEALS School feeding programs are typically required to collect income eligibility applications from families to determine if children are eligible for free or reduced-price meals. Due to the pandemic, the United States Department of Agriculture is allowing schools to waive those requirements and offer free meals to every student.

In addition, many school feeding sites don’t require students to be present to pick up food; parents, siblings or caregivers can collect the meals.

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

RAISING AWARENESS OF OPTIONS & LOCATIONS In response to crisis-level food-insecurity, GENYOUth, working with multinational software corporation SAP, engineered the SAP4Kids digital school-meal locator app so families in need can find food and other resources near them amid the pandemic while also providing ways for organizations to offer additional support.

PROVIDING MULTIPLE MEALS AT A TIME Scheduling is also a factor, leading some schools to offer multiple meals at a time. Whether it’s meals for a full day or enough food for several days, offering multiple meals at a single pickup time streamlines scheduling for both the school and families. In addition, it reduces points of contact, helping to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

SEEKING ASSISTANCE & SUPPORT Federal funding continues to support school meal programs, but schools are also partnering with a wide range of organizations committed to students’ nutrition needs. One example is GENYOUth’s Emergency School Meal Delivery Fund, which has provided thousands of schools with millions of dollars in grants and in-kind support.

To learn more about the report or donate to the COVID-19 Emergency School Meal Delivery Fund visit: genyouthnow.org OR text “SCHOOLS” to 20222 to make a one-time donation of $25

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HOW to TEACH a Love of Reading

TEACHING KIDS TO RECOGNIZE LETTERS Memorizing the alphabet is not a measure of intelligence, but properly learning the sounds of the letters does set children up for future reading success! Learning the letter sounds should come before learning the letter names because knowing the sounds allows them to read and write. Here are a few quick ways to help your child learn their letters while keeping it fun, developmentally appropriate and engaging.

INSTEAD OF TEACHING THE LETTER NAME & WORDS: ("A is for apple") teach your child letter sounds, “aaa, is for apple.” Letter sounds (sounds letters make) are learned first so we can read sooner.

Letter names can be learned later.

INSTEAD OF FOLLOWING ABC ORDER: Start with letters in their name. This brings more meaning and personal involvement to the learning.

motor activity and then have them trace on the carpet with their fingers for a small motor activity. One of my favorite activities is to pour a cup of pudding (store-bought is fast) on water color paper and have little ones use their hands and fingers to draw letters. This involves seeing, touching, smelling, tasting and hearing if you tell them the letter sounds as they play.

TEACH LOWERCASE LETTERS FIRST: They are used more often in reading and writing than capital letters.

LASTLY, HAVE FUN! Every child’s pace on learning letters will be different. Follow their lead and be consistent.

KAREN FERNANDEZ

AVOID TEACHING VISUALLY SIMILAR LETTERS TOGETHER: For example, teaching letters 's and t' together is a better choice than 'b and d' and 'p and q.'

INTRODUCE ONE NEW LETTER A WEEK: Repeated exposure and review through play will cement their learning.

INSTEAD OF OLD-FASHIONED DRILL: Use multi-sensory learning to explore new letters. Have children trace them in sand, or on a tray with salt or sugar.

Let children paint them with their little fingers. Have them use their whole arms to trace them in the sky for a large 8

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

A MOM ON A MISSION

to change the way we use baby registries I am a mom of two energetic boys and the founder of the Flourish Collective, Inc. The company’s mission is to improve access to wellness for all moms from pregnancy through motherhood. I was inspired to launch my business after experiencing pregnancy and postpartum recovery.

While being pregnant with and delivering my two beautiful, healthy babies were the most amazing experiences, the process took a toll on my body. I wasn't prepared for all the emotional, hormonal, physical and mental changes. There were few resources to help me adjust to motherhood and heal my body. When I sought medical help, I was told this is how it is once you have a baby.

Through research, I quickly realized that other countries provide more support and care for new and expecting moms than the United States. Studies show that taking care of mothers results in healthier babies, families and communities.

Many of the programs and therapies offered to new and expecting moms in other countries include preventative care through nutrition counseling, postpartum physical therapy, prenatal fitness, community support groups, and in-home midwife/nurse support immediately postpartum. Most of these therapies have also been clinically proven to better the mom and baby's health and potentially prevent long-term health issues such as postpartum depression, bladder issues, and pelvic floor prolapse, for example.

I was on a mission to better maternity care in the U.S. through building awareness and increasing access to local community resources for new and expecting moms. Then it occurred to me that the first place to drive this change is with the baby registry. After all, the purpose is to help mom prepare for her baby; however, the traditional baby registry focuses on baby gear. I believe we need to shift the focus of a baby registry from stuff to support; moms, babies and families will have an easier time adjusting to the transition. So, I started the Flourish Fund Baby Registry to facilitate the change.

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

MELISSA BOWLEY

Registrants can add gift bundles that include essential baby items and postpartum care and breastfeeding products for mom, and gift cards for support. Registrants can use these gift cards for wellness experiences and pregnancy and after-delivery support. Think birth doulas, lactation counselors, postpartum doulas, newborn care specialists, yoga and fitness classes, breastfeeding and baby education classes, and more. Users also can create a no-stuff registry and include just wellness experiences, pregnancy and birth support, and postpartum help.

I hope to improve the experience of bringing a newborn home, one baby registry at a time.

Visit www.theflourishfund.com to learn more.

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BUILD

heart-healthy behaviors in

preschoolers

A pressing concern like a global pandemic can quickly overshadow other important health challenges facing families. One is the issue of childhood obesity, a problem that the slower pace of life brought on

by COVID-19 could exacerbate.

Numerous cardiovascular and mental health risks are associated with childhood obesity, and many experts expect to see increases in both mental health challenges and obesity as a result of COVID-19.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, childhood obesity impacts 40% of children between the ages of 2-5, increasing their risk for type 2 diabetes, asthma and depression.

Data from a study published in the “Early Childhood Education Journal” from the American Heart Association shows children diagnosed as overweight between 7-13 years old may develop heart disease as early as age 25; however, preventative steps taken in early childhood can help reduce this risk.

These tips from the program can help early childhood professionals and caregivers promote best practices in the daily lives of children.

NUTRITION Less than 1% of children have ideal diets, and under 10% have reasonably healthy diets, according to the American Heart Association.

On any given day, 27% of 2- and 3-year-olds don’t eat a vegetable; among those who do, fried potatoes, which are high in fat and lower in nutrients, are most common. In fact, data shows kids eat less nutritious foods up to age 19.

Children should consume a variety of foods daily, including vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, low-fat or fat-free dairies, lean vegetable or animal protein and fish. At the same time, kids should minimize trans fats, processed meats, refined carbohydrates and sweetened beverages.

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Consistently timed meals and pairing new foods with choices they already enjoy are two ways to help form healthy habits. Be aware that healthy choices should apply throughout the day, not only for meals but also snacks and beverages. Also make water available and accessible to children throughout the day.

For infants, feeding provides nutrition for their physical and mental growth. Healthy babies usually double their birth weight between 4-5 months of age. Infants and children with congenital heart disease and congestive heart failure or cyanosis (blueness) tend to gain weight slower. An 8-ounce-1-pound gain in a month may be an acceptable weight gain for a baby with a heart defect.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY Only about 20% of kids perform enough activity to meet physical activity recommendations. Whether you’re working with children in a childcare setting or at home, look for ways to incorporate lesson plans that offer learning experiences about healthy eating and physical activity, and ensure the daily schedule includes ample active playtime.

The Healthy Way to Grow program recommends all children, including infants, have at least two outdoor active playtimes daily, weather and air quality permitting. Toddlers should engage in 60-90 minutes while 120 minutes of daily active play is recommended for preschoolers. Half the time should be structured and led by a teacher or caregiver while the remaining playtime should be unstructured and up to the child.

Learn more about protecting the health & wellness of children in your home & community at healthywaytogrow.org.

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

SPICED CITRUS ginger mocktail

HELP YOURSELF TO (please & thank you!)

HEALTHY MOCKTAILS

The holidays always take a toll on us.

And the New Year begs us to 'start anew' and 'be healthier.'

So we thought we'd help you keep on track in the new year with a healthier spin on cocktail hour.

CONCENTRATE 1 1/2 1 1 1/2 5 2

cup fresh-squeezed orange juice cup fresh-squeezed lime juice orange peel lime peel teaspoon black peppercorns, lightly crushed cardamom pods, lightly crushed cinnamon sticks, lightly crushed

TO MAKE CONCENTRATE: In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, lime juice, orange peel, lime peel, black peppercorns, cardamom pods and cinnamon sticks. Bring to boil over high heat then turn to low; simmer until liquid has reduced by half, 3-4 minutes. Let cool and strain out solids. Transfer to a glass jar and store until ready to use.

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

MOCKTAIL 1/3 1

cup concentrate Zevia canned ginger ale ICE

Combine concentrate with ginger ale over ice.

Garnish with lime wedge or orange wedge, if desired.

Visit zevia.com/recipes to find more nutritious food and drink solutions

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CARMELIZED sweet onion hummus

HELP YOURSELF TO (yes, please!)

HEALTHIER HUMMUS

Whether you’re hosting a houseful of guests or simply keeping your family’s hunger at bay before dinner, appetizers can be a home chef’s best friend. Simple options like dips allow for personalization while keeping cook time to a minimum.

The next time you’re looking for a quick fix, consider this Caramelized Sweet Onion Hummus recipe that’s ideal for pairing with pita bread, veggies or crackers. With the layered flavor, color and texture of onions serving as a key ingredient, it’s a nutritious substitute for less health-conscious appetizers and snacks.

In fact, onions can be called nature’s ninja because of their many “skills.” Onions add abundant flavor to a wide variety of foods with just 45 calories per serving as a source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium and other key nutrients such as folate, calcium and iron. They are also rich in heart-healthy nutrients and have been shown to help prevent some cancers.

1 4

whole garlic head tablespoons, plus 1 teaspoon, extra-virgin olive oil, divided 1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas 1 tablespoon lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon) 1/2 cup tahini (toasted ground sesame seeds) 1 teaspoon salt

Cut top of garlic head off and place cut-side down on pan; drizzle with 1 teaspoon olive oil. Bake 20-30 minutes, or until garlic is soft. Once cool, squeeze garlic from each clove.

In large skillet over medium-high heat, cook onion in 1 tablespoon olive oil. Stir onion frequently until slices begin to brown.

Reduce heat to low and continue cooking until onions are soft and reach medium brown color.

Rinse and drain chickpeas; reserve 3 tablespoons liquid.

Heat oven to 350 F.

Find more recipe ideas at onions-usa.org

In food processor, blend chickpeas, reserved liquid, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, salt, remaining olive oil and onions until combined and smooth.

Serve with pita bread, veggies or crackers.

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MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

QUINOA SALAD w/orange & cilantro dressing HELP YOURSELF TO (your tastebuds will thank you!)

HEALTHIER ZESTIER SALAD DRESSING 1/2 1/4 1/2 1 1/2 1

cup Zevia Orange Soda cup lime juice cup olive oil cup fresh cilantro avocado teaspoon garlic

For a quick, healthy and fresh meal try this zesty salad!

Simply start with cooked quinoa and mix together with your preferred produce like orange slices, grapefruit and diced avocado. Add feta cheese, lime juice and diced red onion to bring the flavor to life and drizzle with the light, zesty dressing.

Maket it your own!

QUINOA SALAD 1

cup quinoa leafy greens (optional) 1 orange, cut into pieces (optional) 1 grapefruit, cut into pieces (optional) 1 lime, juice only 1/2 avocado, diced (optional) 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional) 1/4 cup diced red onion (optional)

In food processor, pulse orange soda, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, avocado and garlic until consistency is smooth.

Cook quinoa according to package directions and let cool.

Visit zevia.com/recipes to find more nutritious food and drink solutions

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

Once quinoa is cool, add to a bowl with orange pieces, if desired; grapefruit pieces, if desired; lime juice; avocado, if desired; feta cheese, if desired; and diced onion, if desired.

Top with orange cilantro salad dressing.

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GREAT GRAPES! spinach, chicken & grape pita

HELP YOURSELF TO (a boost you say!)

AN IMMUNITY BOOST

Staying healthy is important year-round, but especially in the cooler months when temperatures drop, people spend more time inside and germs can spread easily.

Nourishing meals full of fruits, vegetables, protein-rich foods and whole grains help provide the body’s immune system with the nutrients it needs.

As a nutritious food to include on your grocery list, grapes of all colors – red, green and black – contain more than 1,600 natural plant compounds such as antioxidants and other polyphenols that help protect the health of cells throughout the body. They also contain about 82% water, so they provide important fluids for hydration, which is also critical to a healthy immune system.

2 tablespoons pine nuts 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons minced shallot 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 pinch red pepper flakes 1/4 teaspoon ground sumac salt freshly ground black pepper 1 package (5-6 oz) fresh baby spinach, washed/dried 1 1/2 cups shredded, cooked chicken (about 8 ounces) 1 cup red California grapes, sliced 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese 4 whole-wheat pita breads (6 1/2 inches each), warmed and halved

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In small skillet over medium-high heat, toast pine nuts, stirring constantly until toasted, about 5 minutes. Transfer to bowl and let cool. In large bowl, whisk lemon juice, shallot, olive oil, red pepper flakes, sumac, salt and pepper. Add spinach, chicken, grapes, feta and pine nuts; toss to mix.

Stuff into pita breads and serve.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING: 445 calories; 24 g protein; 46 g carbohydrates; 20 g fat (39% calories from fat); 5 g saturated fat (10% calories from saturated fat); 57 mg cholesterol; 658 mg sodium; 6 g fiber

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

GREAT GRAPES! grape & salmon power salad

HELP YOURSELF TO (yes, I'm in!)

A NUTRIENTRICH POWER BOWL

Grapes can be enjoyed as a healthy snack or an immune-boosting ingredient in recipes like Chicken, Spinach and Grape Pita sandwiches and Grape and Salmon Power Salad.

Find these grape recipes and more in “Eating for Immune Health” along with additional ways to eat healthy and stay well at grapesfromcalifornia.com

GRAPE & SALMON POWER BOWL 3/4 3 1 8 1/2

cup pearled barley cups firmly packed kale leaves, torn, sliced into ribbons cup halved red or black seedless California grapes ounces cold, cooked salmon, skin and bones removed cup walnuts, lightly toasted and coarsely chopped

DRESSING 1/4 1 1/2 1/2 1 1/2

cup freshly squeezed lemon juice clove garlic, mashed teaspoon salt teaspoon freshly ground black pepper pinch cayenne pepper cup extra-virgin olive oil

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

Cook barley according to package directions. Drain and cool.

Tenderize kale by blanching in boiling water 2-3 seconds or microwaving 1 minute. Rinse pieces in cold water to stop cooking; squeeze dry. Fluff and uncrimp dry kale pieces with fingers. In medium bowl, mix barley, kale, grapes, salmon and walnuts.

TO MAKE DRESSING: In small bowl, whisk lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper and cayenne. Gradually mix in olive oil. Pour onto salad and fold gently to combine.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING: 413 calories; 15 g protein; 30 g carbohydrates; 16 g fat (47% calories from fat); 3 g saturated fat (8% calories from saturated fat); 22 mg cholesterol; 232 mg sodium; 500 mg potassium; 4 g fiber

15

LOCAL MOM

pouring

into the family wine business

"The greatest challenge to running our wine business was finding a coastal city that understood that guests at a winery are not the same people who go to a standalone bar." —Maureen Coomber

The Wine Enthusiast recognizes local "95" winemakers with a high score of 95. The Wine

Enthusiast team of reviewers tastes more than 24,000 wines from across the globe every year, covering everything from France and Italy to California, Australia, South Africa, Argentina and beyond.

We had the opportunity to chat with Maureen Coomber of Coomber Family Wines. She shares how she and her husband, Skip, are blending their love of wine and community into a growing family business.

QTell us a little bit about yourself.

Who are Maureen & Skip Coomber?

A: We've been living in North County San Diego since 1995. We are the parents of two daughters, 22 and 24. We are animal and wine lovers. We also love our daughters...and each other.

QWhy did you want to start your own wine business?

A: We invested in a winery in Santa Barbara

County and began making wine for ourselves.

We made wine in the style we like — big and bold. We were able to purchase very good grapes and our wine turned out to be very highly rated. Our first rating was from Wine Enthusiast, which awarded it a 95. Bertrand Hug of Mille Fleurs and Bertrand at Mr. A’s really liked that wine and asked if we would allow him to sell our wine. So we got our California Alcohol and Beverage Commission “Wine Grower’s License” so that we could legally sell our wine to businesses and to individuals. As time went by we dreamt of being able to meet the people who were drinking our wine and we started looking for a place to open a wine tasting room. The coastal cities turned out to be pretty tough to work with, as they didn’t differentiate wineries 16

from bars. Fortunately, Oceanside found out we were looking for a location and asked that we locate in downtown Oceanside. They made it incredibly easy for us. Now, we get to be true hosts and welcome guests into our winery and tasting room.

QStarting a wine business sounds

very romantic. How did you go about getting started?

A: It all started because we grew to love wine after taking our first trip together to Napa. So when we had the opportunity to invest in a winery we didn’t hesitate. Our dreams have truly been answered with our winery, where we have live music on our safe, covered patio seven nights a week.

QWhat has been the best part

about starting & running your own wine label?

A: We have five different wine labels that we

designed ourselves. Seeing our wines in a store or on the menu in a restaurant was something that always made us feel great. But, ultimately, the best part is getting to pour our wine for our 350 wine club members. There is a great deal of effort that goes into choosing grapes, barrels, bottles, corks and capsules. There are many hard decisions to make. After all of that effort, sitting back and watching people truly enjoy your wine is sort of the coup de gras.

QWhat has been the greatest challenge of running your own wine business?

A: Finding a coastal city that understood that

guests at a winery are not the same people who MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

go to a standalone bar. Oceanside understood that and welcomed us with open arms. We were able to open our doors to the public five months after turning in our application to the City. Oceanside has told us repeatedly how happy they are that we opened there, as we brought in a sophisticated clientele that also supported other downtown Oceanside businesses.

QTell us about the wine tasting room.

A: Our wine tasting room is often described by our guests and wine club members as very welcoming.

Most of the inside is built from repurposed wood and steel. We like to describe it as “industrial elegant” as we have exposed the original 1944 brick walls, yet we have oriental rugs throughout to soften the feel and sound. We paid particular attention to details, ensuring that the guests not only enjoy award-winning wines, but have a memorable experience. Our back doors open up onto our spacious outdoor covered patio where we have live music performances seven nights a week. We have had the opportunity to bring in very well-known local bands, as there are limited opportunities for them to perform, given Covid. In addition to the beautiful bar inside the winery we have a second wine tasting bar on the patio so guests are never very far from their next taste of wine. There are three fantastic restaurants across the street that happily deliver their food to the table of our guests, so our guests have the benefit of three quality kitchens, not just one. Also, our guests are more than welcome to bring in their own food and have a sort of picnic while enjoying wine-tasting and live music. As a winery, children are allowed and we also welcome well-behaved dogs.

QYou also have a wine club?

A: We have been very fortunate to be

so well-received by wine lovers in North County. After only a year and a half we have over 350 wine club members. We spent a great deal of time developing the different wine club options so that there is generally a suitable choice for anyone who loves wine. In addition to the expected discount on wine, our members are invited to come to a free monthly “members only” event at which we provide entertainment and significant wine sampling while they get to know their fellow members.

riesling, sauvignon blanc, malbec and gewurztraminer. We also have a sustainability program where we have three or four different wines that we have put into kegs and serve from a spigot, rather than put into wine bottles.

QWhich wine is your personal favorite?

A: People often ask me what my favorite wine is. The answer is always dependent upon the situation. With a big steak dinner I prefer a bold cabernet sauvignon. With Thanksgiving dinner I prefer a medium-body pinot noir. With sushi I absolutely adore dry riesling, which is surprising to people until they try it. Summertime-by-the-pool... sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio.

QDo you have any special wine tips for our readers?

A: Experiment! Go to a winery where you can

taste many different wines. Every day we see people who are amazed that they like a type of wine they thought they would not. Our dry riesling is a perfect example. Everyone assumes that all rieslings are very sweet; however, when they try our dry riesling they are amazed. Beer drinkers?

“Oh, I don’t like wine.” That attitude changes after they try a rosé or dry riesling.

QWhat tips do you have for moms

who are dreaming of turning their own passion into a business?

A: For moms dreaming of turning their passion into a business, you’re not going to like my answer.

But, you may benefit from it. The answer is, “Proceed with caution!”

The truth is, we would not be successful without the help of our consultant (who we eventually persuaded to stay and manage our business). Talk to owners of like businesses and try to get their advice and benefit from their experience. You’ll be amazed at how eager they will be to share information with you, and even to mentor you. I would also suggest that if you can’t hire a consultant, you should get a job in the industry you are interested in pursuing before you invest money into your own business.

QWhat do you want people to know about your wines?

A: Our wines all reflect our love for Califor-

nia-style wines, meaning they are bold and fruit-driven. We almost always have over 20 different choices of wine in a rotating selection, including chardonnay, pinot noir, cabernet sauvignon, zinfandel, pinot grigio, merlot, (dry) MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

COOMBER CRAFT WINES 611 MISSION AVENUE OCEANSIDE, CA 92054

17

KIMBERLY STAMM

Broker / President, CA License #0E34870 DKR & ASSOCIATES INSURANCE SERVICES (800) 331-3001 FAX FAX:: (877) 260-7474 KStamm@DKREnterprises.com Licensed in CA, OR, AZ and now TX!

Better Coverage, Better Rates, Better Service!

INSURANCE COVERAGE:

what you need to know LET'S ASK THE EXPERT: KIMBERLY STAMM

Q

Why was my water damage claim denied by my homeowners policy?

A: Water is a VERY tricky ele-

ment to triggering coverage or not. Water back-up sump/sewer could have been the reason and there is typically a small amount of automatic coverage given to this cause if your agent did not increase it. This gap can leave you cleaning up quite a mess.

Review water damage issues and concerns. It is not all equal as you may think.

Q

What if I rent out a portion of my home thru VRBO? Will my homeowners automatically cover this exposure?

Q

I hired a housekeeper & a gardener. How do I protect myself from liability issues that may arise?

A: Anyone that is in business

for themselves and provides a service to others should have the proper liability in place, including workers comp (if applicable). Although workers compensation is included on a homeowners policy, you really should make sure these workers have active insurance and you should ask for a Certificate of Insurance or copy of their Bond.

WHAT DOES BEING AN "INDEPENDENT AGENT REALLY MEAN? Being an Independent agent means we can represent multiple carriers so we can find our clients the BEST possible insurance COVERAGE and BEST possible PREMIUM out in the insurance marketplace.. Our agency is not tied to any one carrier or product. This is referred to as an exclusive agent. This we are not.

Our agency is affiliated with SIAA, Strategic Independent Agents Alliance, which is by far the largest network of independent agencies in the country.

Collectively, we have over 4,000 agencies in our network that have written 8.1 billion in premium. That’s a large market share. What does this mean for you, you might ask? Simply, we are backed by the strength of our group and we have negotiating power, which equals lower premiums for you.

Some of the carriers we represent:

A: NO. This drastically changes

the liability exposure to a homeowner insurance carrier. This should be discussed in detail with your agent so that the right coverage/endorsements get added to your policy. Your policy may need to be rewritten to carrier that allows such of an exposure to take place. If you run into any issues, please call my office so we can help you.

CA# OF23554 ♦ TX# 2461273 ♦ AZ# 197233 ♦ OR# 685057

18

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

Ken Moran Executive Vice President

Cabrillo Mortgage Direct (760) 521-8527 eFax (619) 923-3000 ken@cabrillomortgage.com NMLS 292033

Disclosure: This message contains information from Cabrillo Mortgage, and is confidential and privileged. The information is intended for the use ual or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, be aware that any disclosure, copying, distribution or use of the contents of this ohibited. If you have received this electronic message in error, please notify us immediately by replying to this message and then please delete the your system. Cabrillo Mortgage 3110 Camino Del Rio South Suite 312 San Diego, CA 92108 (Company NMLS 292211 Company DRE 01264205)

RECORD-LOW MORTGAGE RATES

What Do the Rates Mean for You? LET'S ASK THE EXPERT: KEN MORAN

Q

Ken, how long have you been in the mortgage industry and what makes your service unique?

A: I’ve been in the mortgage industry for more than 27 years.

We specialize in Jumbo loans to $10 million, government loans, and conventional loans. Our longstanding relationships with more than 100 funding sources enable us to provide preferred rates and pricing on mortgage products that many other lenders don’t have access to.

Q

What is your take on these new record-low rates for mortgages?

A: With the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage at 3.18% this

past week, according to Freddie Mac, it’s the lowest level in nearly 50 years. Rates are expected to stay near these low levels for at least the rest of 2020.

Q

What does this mean for a buyer of a home that costs $600K?

A: Interest rates are hovering near all-time lows, and for qualified borrowers in San Diego County, borrowing less than $701,000, should get optimal rates in the low 3’s.

Q

How does it look for a buyer in the $900K or $2 million range?

A: Qualified borrowers borrowing up to 2 million dollars in

Q

What makes your service unique?

A: I’m able to close creative financing to help borrowers purchase when they otherwise could not. I do cross collateral loans to help buyers purchase non-contingent without having to sell their current residence. I fund asset depletion loans using assets to create income where other lenders cannot. We have really great technology that enables us to frequently close loans in two weeks or less at market leading rates and terms.

The great products, rates and experience enable me to close transactions and provide options for buyers that might not otherwise be able to purchase a home.

Q

What kind of paperwork do you need to help a potential client?

A: It is really not too much to compile. I always request 2 years

tax returns and W-2s, 2 months of bank statements, and 2 recent pay stubs. If a buyer is self-employed, I will also need 2 years business tax returns and K-1s or 1099s. I always set up a secure link so they can just drag and drop to make it quick and easy.

Q

Do you think these historically low rates could go even lower?

A: It’s possible. My best advice is to lock in a historically low

rate now while you can. If rates go up there is nothing you can do. Rates are incredibly low. Take advantage of it while you can!

California will have great options with 15%-25% down payment.

There are great loans that are fixed for 3, 5, 7, and 10 years all with rates in the mid to high 3’s. There are also options to amortize over 30 or 40 years and interest only options for lower payments and higher cash flow.

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

19

RISE

the mom project

by Chandra Sanders. M.Ed

Women, more specifically women of color, are in the fight of their lives as America runs the risk of unraveling decades of progress in workplace equality due to the economic effects of COVID-19. All signs indicate women and minorities are hardest hit: Women are 1.8 times more likely than men to have lost their job due to COVID-19 and women of color are twice as likely to have lost jobs compared to other populations.

Stopping the dramatic COVID-19 backslide in workplace equality requires immediate action to help reverse these alarming trends. Women who have to care for children and support their families need remote roles that are family-friendly and offer flexibility to be able to handle swift economic shifts like those experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

That's why MomProject.org launched RISE, a scholarship program committed to upskilling and elevating moms and women of color to accelerate opportunity and economic increase.

The RISE program is a transformative career accelerator, awarding scholarships for highly sought-after tech program certifications and pairing participants with accelerated job placement upon completion through The Mom Project’s network of program partners, corporate sponsors and advocates.

The program is designed to be achievable, given the multitude of commitments that moms and women of color face.

Cost barriers are removed with fully-funded scholarships and the program takes no longer than three months of parttime participation, so women can continue to work and care for their family while they complete the program. The support of our community offers encouragement, mentorship and additional resources.

CHANDRA SANDERS Participants who complete the program receive job placement support. Moms and women of color find opportunities with companies that value their skills and lived experiences, and are committed to a diverse and family-friendly workplace.

RISE aims to maximize the power, influence and earning potential of talented women of color. The program helps meet industry demand for diverse talent, increasing representation and getting women of color closer to realizing pay parity.

American women have the power, courage and talent to lift their families up by their bootstraps — but the shoes have to fit. RISE is more than upskilling certifications; RISE provides community and support in a program that truly sees her and her needs, and elevates her without compromising authenticity.

To learn more, visit TheMomProject.com/RISE For more information about RISE or The Mom Project, visit TheMomProject.com/RISE or head over to MomsTown265. com and listen to episodes #52 with Chandra Sanders and #72 with Nicole Route.

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MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

RISE

the mom project

by Nicole Route

RISE, offered through The Mom Project, is a scholarship program committed to accelerating equity for moms of color, providing access to upskill certifications while harnessing the power of community, support and job placement — all in as little as three months and at no cost to participants!

One of the moms who received a RISE scholarship is Nicole Route. Nicole recently joined us on MomsTown365, The Daily 10-Minute Podcast for Mom Creators. Nicole shared how the program gave her the ability to create a professional life that works for her and her family. Nicole completed the Salesforce tech certification program. It’s enabled her to get a better paying job, work remotely and take charge of her career. Here is a part of that conversation:

Q

Nicole, thank you for joining us to share your experience. What are your thoughts about the RISE program?

A: The project is awesome. I personally joined the project after I saw it posted on LinkedIn. The project has just been nothing short of amazing. What was so amazing about the project is that I'm a mom, of course, and I was able to do it from home and in just a short period of time. It didn't take me long to take the course, study and ultimately take the exam.

Q

Is this program strictly in the technology industry?

A: The course I took was in the technology industry, which was

Salesforce. They do also offer a Google certification course.

NICOLE ROUTE

Q

What has been the best part of upskilling and getting a new job?

A: It was very important for me, when I decided to take the up-

skilling course, that I have flexibility. It was also very important to me that I work remotely. Like I said, I've been in the oil and gas industry and the nine-to-five schedule had become a nineto-nine and the days began to run together. I didn't want that anymore for myself or my family. So, again, working remotely and being able to take this course on my terms has meant everything to me.

Q

Q

How long did it take to go through the program?

We understand RISE is a scholarship program so moms can take these courses and get the certifications that are normally cost-prohibitive?

A: The course was six weeks, but it’s flexible. I completed the

A: Yes. Serena Williams (yes, that Serena Williams — the tennis

course in seven weeks.

Q

How does your new job compare to your past work experience?

A: I come from the oil and gas industry and I was doing pro-

curement with oil and gas. So this is totally new to me. I now work with Salesforce. I've used Salesforce more on the back end, not on the front end. So this is very exciting for me. I’m working remotely but I have the option to choose to work remotely or in the actual office or both. It just depends on you, the company that is interested in hiring you, and your career goals.

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

player) is actually the driving force behind getting the scholarships funded.

Q

Finally, what has this journey meant to you and your family on a personal level?

A: Hands down, this has been the holy grail for me and my

family. One: It changed our dynamic. Two: It changed my income. And three: It gave me and my family the freedom we've been looking for.

To learn more, visit TheMomProject.com/RISE

21

5 crucial steps

for returning to work

by

Emily Stark

Don’t Exhaust Yourself Scrolling Job Boards!

Relax!

Take a Look at these Steps for Returning to the Workforce One of the first posts I shared on return-to-work-moms was a picture of Big Bird wedged between boardroom seats filled with men and women in business suits. Jumping back into the workforce can feel like that. Taking the time to evaluate your ideal career picture is a crucial prerequisite for job search success.

Here are 5 steps to build a strong foundation and thrive in your return-to-work journey.

EMILY STARK

WHAT DOES WORK MEAN TO YOU? Few jobseekers stop to meditate on what work means to them, but it’s important for return-to-work moms because we need passion and fulfillment as part of our professional pursuit. You may notice that your ambitions and motives have changed pre/post baby — that’s to be expected. I recommend journaling about this topic and the questions below: ▶ What are three things you look forward to in your next role?

People, type of work, schedule . . . ▶ What skills, expertise and insights do you want to bring to your next role? ▶ What do you want out of your career in the next 3-5 years?

TAKE STOCK OF YOUR MOTIVES Journaling about your return-to-work is a cornerstone because the transition in redefining yourself as a working mom will come with floating-on-cloud-9 days and lowly ones, too. Revisiting your WHY can be used as a grounding message and replenish your drive.

A PERSONAL BRAND TO TRANSCEND YOUR JOB SEARCH DOCUMENTS The time spent diving into your career journaling will funnel into your resume, cover letter and LinkedIn profile. You are mapping out who you are and what you want in the next chapter of your professional life. Use these career stories, wish lists and top talents in your job search documents to stand out.

22

FORWARD-FOCUSED RESUME, COVER LETTER AND LINKEDIN You want to move forward in your career, right? Adopt a futurefocused perspective in the language throughout your job search documents. Organize the information that shows you are competent in the job you seek in hierarchical fashion; use your transferable skills and valuable experiences to lead the way in your first lines because the recruiter will read from top to bottom.

GET OUT THERE! Equipped with confidence and clarity you are ready to share that you are open to work! For moms, I recommend diving into your network first. Motherhood brings many dear friends and acquaintances who want to support you. Approach these conversations clearly stating what you want to do in your next role and request that they connect you with a specific person or known opportunity. Follow up with gratitude and your resume to easily forward along.

Motherhood and careerhood are both incredible journeys to discover and challenge yourself more deeply. Enjoy the process and always strive for more!

For more information visit Marketable-Mama.com

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

20 ideas to help

Many families, whether it’s your family, the family next door or across the country, are facing a lot of uncertainty. By now, most of us know a woman, probably more than just one, impacted professionally by the pandemic. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 865,000 women dropped out of the labor force in September compared to only 216,000 men.

out-of-work moms

courtesy of Emily

Stark

Our friend, Emily Stark from Marketable Mama, shares with us how we can all show a little love to moms facing professional and economic uncertainty.

20 ideas 1. Give her a LinkedIn endorsement &

11. Offer to host a Zoom activity for her kids

recommendation 12. Share virtual career event info 2. Connect her to a hiring stakeholder 13. Call just to check-in 3. Give a job referral on her behalf 14. Mail her an inspirational card 4. Share trusted, reliable childcare info 15. Share career advice hubs: 5. Send her a relevant job post

(i.e. The Mom Project)

6. Tell her about a stellar company you know

16. Send her a useful article, like: “Ace Your Job Search While Managing Virtual School”

7. Email a career story of a time she shined 17. Introduce her to other out-of-work women 8. Read over her resume 18. Share a professional organization with her 9. Tell her about a career coach for moms 19. Share her LinkedIn posts 10. Share remote work sites: (i.e. Fiverr, FlexJobs and Upwork)

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

20. Send her dinner

23

smart money

MAMAS

Chelsea Brennan leaves the world of high finance as a hedge fund manager to find more purpose in life and to fulfill a dream.

She launched Smart Money Mamas.

Her dream is to help moms build: ▶ more generational wealth for their children ▶ a powerful relationship with money ▶ a strategy for taking control of their finances Chelsea recently joined us on MomsTown365, The 10-Minute Podcast for Mom Creators. We talked about the online platform she created and her mission to better the financial lives of moms.

Q

Q

Do you believe moms carry a lot of the pressure of the family budget on their shoulders?

A: Absolutely. Two out of three women manage the household budget in heterosexual couples. Obviously there's a huge percentage of single moms as well. They completely manage all aspects of their household finances as well.

Q

With this in mind, tell us exactly how Smart Money Mamas helps moms?

A: Smart Money Mamas is an online media platform. We have a podcast and we have a YouTube channel. We have a membership called the Motivated Mama Society, which really takes a holistic view of money in your life as a mom. Our training takes you through getting control of your mindset, figuring out where you stand with money and then setting goals you can achieve. We also have ongoing support because money is not something we do once and then check the box and walk away.

Thank you for joining us. Tell us, who is Chelsea Brennan?

A: I'm the mom of two crazy toddler boys and married to a

stay-at-home dad. We live in Connecticut and I've been running Smart Money Mamas for a little over three years. Prior to that, I was a hedge fund manager. So I've made quite a lifestyle change.

Q

For more information visit SmartMoneyMamas.com —This is an excerpt of our conversation with Chelsea Brennan on MomsTown365. We also talk about the reality of moms living paycheck-to-paycheck. To get her tips and to hear more of our interview with Chelsea, visit MomsTown365.com, episodes 70 & 71.

Life as a hedge fund manager is a very high stress job, correct?

A: Yes. High intensity and long work hours but very intellectually stimulating. There were definitely benefits to that job; however, when I had my first son I was just really hit with the lack of greater purpose in my job. I always knew that I didn't want to stay in the high finance world forever. It was always going to be a first act career, but having my baby was really an impetus for me to look at how I was modeling “living your purpose” to my child. We decided to make a big, big pivot to leave my job and start this business (Smart Money Mamas).

Q

Leaving a high-paying career had to be a difficult decision. What kind of lifestyle did you want?

A: I wanted more flexibility. I wanted to control my schedule much more significantly than I could in my old job. Being pulled away to travel, working really late (and long) hours was not something that was going to suit me, but more important to me was purpose. I love to teach. I love trying to improve kids' lives and the lives of families.

I think that moms are the real root to changing generational money stories. If we (moms) can take control of our own money mindset, our own money habits, we can change that for our children and their children and so forth.

CHELSEA BRENNAN

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MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

A CREATIVE BRIEF

for a creative life

ROBIN MARVELLI

“In my experience, using a brief leads to the most effective brand creative”

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WORKING WITH A CREATIVE TEAM Your brand comes to life through your website, logo, social media content, and other types of marketing collateral. To succeed in today’s ultra-competitive world, every message you put out needs to capture your audience’s attention through compelling design and copywriting. A good creative team will help you achieve your business goals by developing content that engages your customers and potential clients. Effective communication through design is vital to your company’s success. Today I’m sharing some tips for hiring a creative team and achieving your marketing goals.

WHO MAKES UP A CREATIVE TEAM? Depending on your needs, you may decide to hire a graphic designer or a graphic designer and copywriter. Graphic designers create visual elements, and copywriters come up with the words that go with the design. They often work together to brainstorm concepts. If you’re having just a logo done, then you may not need a copywriter. But, if you’re seeking a logo and a tagline, consider hiring a copywriter to help with the slogan.

Since graphic designers and copywriters usually work as a team, consider hiring a writer and designer simultaneously. If you choose a graphic designer first, they can recommend a copywriter and vice-versa.

process of writing a brief may also help you clarify your business goals. As concepts get developed, you and your team can refer back to the brief to ensure the creative is on strategy.

WHEN WRITING A CREATIVE BRIEF, YOU’LL DESCRIBE:

• • • • • •

Brand background The Problem Opportunity Target Audience Key Messaging Project Type

In my experience, using a brief leads to the most effective brand creative. It can also save you time and money because everyone will be on the same page from the project’s beginning.

To view samples of my work or to connect visit lamplightcreativestudio.com or email info@lamplightcreativestudio.com

RESEARCH DESIGN STYLES Before interviewing candidates for your creative team, research the design style you want for your brand. Gather artwork from other brands that resonate with you — within your industry and outside of it. TIP: You may want to hire creative professionals with experience in your particular industry — they’ll have a good sense of what works and doesn’t for the category.

HAVE A PLAN You and your creative team may have different communication styles, and that’s totally okay. To circumvent any miscommunication, discuss a strategy with your team at the beginning of the project and document it in a creative brief; it’s like a map for the whole team to follow. The brief lays out your strategic plan, helping you convey your vision for your brand. The

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

25

BUILDING

strength & a business

from a chair

by Kelly Wislar

My journey with yoga began at age forty-five, while recovering from thyroid cancer. At the time, I had three children, ages 16, 15 and 12; I was lucky to be a stay-at-home mom devoting most of my time to looking after my family. Our lives changed abruptly when after three surgeries and radiation I was left with very little energy and unable to do the things I had before to ensure our household ran smoothly. I had always been active and enjoyed a variety of physical exercise but didn’t feel I had the strength to jump back into my normal routine.

I discovered a yoga class in my neighborhood that allowed me to gradually regain my strength, not only physically but emotionally and spiritually as well. I was hooked. It became part of my daily routine and in 2016 I got certified as a yoga instructor. I soon realized the need for the benefits of yoga for people who might not have the physical capabilities to get onto a mat, so I developed my seated yoga program, Have-ASeat Yoga. The program provides all the benefits of a traditional yoga class, only done from a chair without the need for any props or special clothing.

At first, my teaching focused on the senior population— I got such joy helping them to not only feel better physically but also to see how it improved their mood by alleviating anxiety and depression and giving them a sense of calm and optimism. I saw a need for people to be inspired to try something new, that might seem unattainable, by giving them the tools and encouragement necessary, so I created a corresponding book of inspirational messages that came out in January 2020, two months before my business came to a screeching halt due to COVID-19.

Suddenly, millions of people were working from home. I saw a new need for people to adapt to their new situation, stay connected to co-workers and customers, so I began teaching to corporations via Zoom in April of 2020. Being able to take something I had built and put my whole heart into, now with the ability to reach more people than I could have ever imagined via Zoom, has been the realization of a dream I had from the very beginning — to share the benefits of seated yoga with everyone.

26

KELLY WISLAR Author of, Have-A-Seat Yoga, Inspiration to Get Started, Stay Connected, and Keep Going.

Find her at www.haveaseatyoga.com.

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

LOVE

your life

by Lauren Chante

Have you ever wondered if your fitness goals are hurting your happiness, instead of helping it? We live in a culture that constantly shows us being beautiful and thin is important, and that “worthy” people care about exercising and healthy eating. We’re influenced by this messaging from such a young age that we’re blind to it, and many of us never pause to wonder how it’s impacting our lives. If we did, we might wake up and realize our happiness is more important than our dress size.

After nearly 15 years of helping women, I’ve noticed success starts inside. Women make wellness goals for one of two reasons. The first reason is love; she loves herself so deeply that she is called to care for her body. After all, you take care of the things you love! The second reason is the opposite; fear. She’s afraid she’s not good enough because she’s not what society expects her to be.

For the first woman, her health and wellness is authentically a top priority. For the second woman, health may seem like her top priority at first; however, a deeper look shows that her top priority is actually hustling for her self worth.

This difference in intention is like the difference between a real designer handbag and a knockoff. At first, both bags look the same; however, carry them around for a few weeks and you’ll notice the knockoff doesn’t act the same as the real thing. It feels different, smells different and ultimately wears out quickly. That’s why using fitness and healthy eating to hustle for your self worth never works long term.

Just like that knockoff handbag frays, your motivation wears out quickly.

Spend time reflecting on your priorities. Is health and wellness really, truly a priority for you? If it’s not, I want you to know that’s okay. You get to be who you are, even when that’s not what society expects you to be. The important thing is to become aware of your priorities and make a conscious choice about who you’re going to be, so you can feel whole. With wholeness comes power and deep motivation.

You’ll have a solid foundation from which to make changes to your wellness if that’s what you really want.

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

LAUREN CHANTE With your head in the right place to move forward with wellness goals, the right approach matters. Diets don’t work long term, so starting with a fad diet will quickly demoralize you. You need to learn how to eat when you’re not on a diet. So, slowly work on introducing healthy habits. Focusing on habit change helps reset your body’s autopilot, so you naturally reach for foods that serve you.

Lauren Chante is a health strategist, specializing in helping women to stop jumping from diet-to-diet so they can find what works for their unique bodies and lives. Lauren teaches her signature method of wellness coaching to students globally. She has a master’s in Exercise Science, is a certified nutrition coach, strength and conditioning coach and yoga teacher. As a mom of three, she 'gets' momlife and all the details that make moms different.

CONTACT & SOCIALS: Instagram, Facebook, Instagram & Pinterest: @LaurenChanteOfficial Clubhouse: @LaurenChante Web: laurenchante.com

27

5 WAYS

to add love & warmth to your home

With all our extra time at home it’s more important than ever to add warmth, life, and of course love, into our spaces. At the end of the day, we just want to feel good about our homes, right? Wondering how? Well, let’s dive in and learn simple ways that you can add a little love into your home’s decor.

ADD TEXTURE TO BRING IN WARMTH

Crank up those cozy home vibes with layers of textures and fabrics. Chunky knits, velvets and linens are a great start. Add pillows, rugs, throws and drapery panels to instantly elevate your home design and warm up your space.

Skip the safe solids and be sure to mix in lots of fun patterns to keep things interesting and feel more personal and custom.

LIGHTING LOVE

Good lighting is key to creating cozy, inviting spaces. And bad lighting can kill a room’s mood in an instant. When choosing light bulbs go with warm ones (2700 Kelvin) that cast a soft, flattering glow. Cooler bulbs (3100+ Kelvin) are harsher and give a brighter, blue tinge.

Also be sure to add dimmers to your lights so you can control the brightness.

BRING NATURE IN

Natural materials and colors are so on trend right now. Bring touches of nature inside with flooring, furnishings and plants. Soft, wood tones naturally add life, coziness, and warmth to your home. Adding greenery and plants— real or faux, is also a good way to go. And don’t worry if you don’t have a green thumb.

Faux succulents look so real you’d never know the difference.

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OVERSIZED

What’s cozier than curling up on a big, oversized sofa to binge your favorite show on Netflix? It can be scary to go with bigger pieces, but know that a large piece of art, a grand chandelier, or an overstuffed sofa will make a big impact in your home. They fill the room and make your home feel more inviting.

ADD FAMILY PHOTOS We want our homes to reflect us and tell our personal story. Adding family photos is such a beautiful way to add those personal touches to our home. There are so many wonderful family photographers in our area that can capture the love your family shares. And be sure when choosing outfits for your family photo session that you choose outfits that complement the colors in your home for a cohesive look.

SALLY SORICELLI

Visit me at nestorations.com to get more design tips, inspiration, and join my exclusive email club. I can’t wait to connect with you!

Talk soon, Sally

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

TRACY'S TIPS FOR

organizing—

an act of self-love February, the month of love where gifts of candy, cards, flowers and jewelry are given and received as expressions of love.

But, what about showing yourself some love?

Acts of self-love are the oxygen masks we must put on ourselves first to be able to love others. Not doing so can lead to fatigue, resentment, depression and sickness. It can burn us out and make us feel like we have nothing left to give.

Massages, quiet time, a nature hike and bubble baths are wonderful ways to express self-love.

But would you believe organizing is, too?

Organizing helps to calm and clear the mind. It creates a supportive and nurturing environment that meets your personal needs and preferences. It saves time by making cleaning easier. It restores energy, boosts confidence and increases overall well-being.

HERE’S SOME ORGANIZING TIPS TO GET YOUR SELF-LOVE FEST STARTED TIP 1 — PURGE clothes that don’t serve you. Walking into your closet and being reminded of what doesn’t fit you anymore is a subtle drain on your energy. Conversely, having a closet full of clothes you love will start your day on a positive note and make you feel much better about yourself.

TIP 2 — CREATE a home spa. Organize all of your spa products like bath salts, candles and essential oils in one spot so you’re ready to go when you want to unwind.

TIP 3 — SET UP a workout space. Loving yourself is much easier to do when you physically feel good. Whether it’s yoga, weight training or cardio, you’ll more likely exercise if your workout gear and equipment are easily accessible.

TIP 4 — ORGANIZE your calendar to schedule YOU time. With all of the responsibilities we have taking care of others, it’s easy to forget about taking care of ourselves. Even if it’s only for 30 minutes, schedule time for YOU. TIP 5 — DESIGNATE a YOU-only spot. Whether it’s an entire room or just a small space on a countertop, creating a sacred space for only you sets boundaries, which is a form of self-care.

Focusing on loving yourself, is vital to loving others. So, go ahead and self-love yourself to death.

MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021

TRACY PAYE

Tracy Paye MissOrganized.com Tracy@MissOrganized.com

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Rates Approach 30 YEAR LOWS! Purchase Or ReÞnance Now! Lower Your Payments Today!

Do Not Miss This Opportunity!

Qualify For More / Lower Payments / Cash Out

Call Me Today To Get Pre-Approved Or To Lock In A Lower Rate!

Ken Moran President / Managing Partner

Cabrillo Mortgage

Direct (760) 521-8527 ken@cabrillomortgage.com NMLS 292033 MOMSTOWN • FEB 2021 ConÞdentiality Disclosure: This message contains information from Cabrillo Mortgage, and is conÞdential and privileged. The information is intended for the use

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We have clients in escrow!We have clients in escrow!We have clients in escrow!We have clients in escrow!We have clients in escrow!