SL Momilies

at a nice restaurant that welcomes fat pants, serves tenderloin and cabernet—and when we get home we’d all curl up on the couch dogs and all, watch a movie that everyone would love, and fall asleep right there

SL: What’s the one song that means the most to you? EE: This is hard because I love music, can often be found at impromptu dance parties with my daughter, and I am constantly cooking to my newest favorite album. I would’ve been the next Taylor Swift if God had given me a voice others would love to hear sing—but “Amazing Grace” speaks to my soul in a way I cannot put into words.

SL: What advice would you give to your younger self about Motherhood? EE: Elena, the road will be hard. You’ll question every decision that you make. Listen hard for that still small voice and obey. Keep praying and believe that miracles happen every day. Know its okay to not know what to always do, but always be true to yourself. Trust that if God put the dream inside of you that He will make it so. Remember that love is enough. Put your faith above your fear and let love lead your way (and one more thing...) They will all eventually be potty trained. Breathe.

SL: Is there a quote, saying, words of advice or scripture you consider words to live by? EE: I need to fill the rest of this page so I will answer all of them. Quote: “She believed she could, so she did,” by author R.S. Grey. I love this quote and have it framed in my home above my daughter’s bookshelf so she will know she can do anything she sets her mind to—it’s a good reminder for me, too. Saying: “A closed mouth catches no flies” and “Pretty is as pretty does.” My grandmother used to tell me both of these and she told them to my mom also. It’s just a good rule of thumb on how to behave and be respectful of others. Words of Advice: When my husband passed away, my mentor told me to, “Just keep showing up.” Those words have been my mantra for the last decade and keep me making

As Mother Used To Say

the next right decision. Finally... Scripture: “When I am afraid, I will trust in God” Psalms 56:3. Being a single parent is hard. Making decisions alone is hard. For me, knowing that I don’t have to burden it alone means everything.

SL: If you could share a meal with any woman past, present or future who would it be? Why? EE: I would love to actually meet my identical twin daughters face to face. I lost them both with a double miscarriage. I rest now knowing I will get to meet them someday.

SL: What Mom from real-life or even TV/movies do you admire most? EE: I admire Mary, mother of Jesus. How strong she had to be in a time it wasn’t acceptable to be pregnant without a husband.

SL: At the end of a long day, what do you do for fun or relaxation? EE: Close my office doors—I work from home and this creates boundaries for me. I cook some amazing food and grab a glass of wine. I spend time hanging out with my kids and my dogs and then watch a movie that makes me laugh. I would also love a bubble bath!

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– Momilies Column –Would you like to answer these 20 questions about motherhood and becoming a mom? If so, you could be featured here in our next Momilies column with your kids and family. Our photographer will take professional photos of you all for the article as well. We even give you some to keep! Please send an email with your contact to: elena@societylifemagazine.com

– FatherHood Column –Dads can also send in their stories about fatherhood to be considered for an upcoming issue. He can share his memorable moments with our readers by emailing his story of fatherhood story to our editor at: elena@societylifemagazine.com

HIS PERSPECTIVE: STORIES FROM FATHERHOOD | BY JABARI COLON

FATHERING A CHILD IS DIFFERENT THAN BEING A DAD.

A father is defined as a male parent of a child, one who shares DNA with the child, but may not share responsibility for the child’s growth and development. “Dad” is a term of affection and familiarity, and dads actively participate in their child’s life. To achieve the title of Dad, we must learn to apply the three P’s: Provide, Protect, and be Present.

Provide

Children are the primary recipients of the fruits of a dad’s labor. There are so many expenses for the needs of a child, which include adequate housing, clothing, food, and medical care. Additionally, children have many wants—from buying toys and electronics to playing sports and taking vacations. The act of providing is dependent upon receiving income, which typically occurs outside of the time with children. The more you can strengthen yourself in your career or field, the better position you will be in to provide for your children.

Protect

So many factors today can harm your children. Bullying, human trafficking, and discrimination are just a few risk factors dads need to consider. Some threats are clear, while others may not be immediately apparent. These dangers can be subtle and hard to detect. Paying close attention to the actions and location of your child and fostering an environment for open communication will be your best chance at identifying unknown dangers. You must apply the third P in order to accomplish this goal.

Present

Being present is the most important of the three P’s. There is nothing more important to a child than being physically and emotionally available for them. I once read a quote, “Children don’t just need your presents, they need your presence.” It is important that some of your children’s fondest memories and experiences include you—their dad. If you are not around, you will miss their life’s milestones and achievements. Time passes that you cannot get back. Nothing can substitute being present in your child’s life.