You Deserve Wealth

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
Custom Search

Rich Single Momma

Showing posts with label quality of life. Show all posts
Showing posts with label quality of life. Show all posts

Monday, November 10, 2008

The Cash-Strapped Parent's Guide to Christmas: How to Have a Merry Christmas For Free

I walked into Wal-Mart this weekend and was met with Christmas displays and trees. As I walked down the aisles I heard the Christmas music playing softly in the background. I admit that I was a little agitated that Thanksgiving has been completely ignored or at best got one day of attention (probably on the day nobody really went shopping).

I got over the agitation and proceeded with my shopping. But it was not without thinking about the thousands of single moms out there who feel burdened by the Christmas holidays. I’ve faced this dread myself in years past. I know what it’s like to wonder where I’ll get the money to buy gifts for my kids. Several times I’ve made the decision to only purchase one gift or no more than three (in the spirit of Christ’s birth). As much as I wanted to give my precious little ones everything they wanted I just couldn’t. I didn’t have the money because I needed to pay the rent or car note. I needed to make sure there was food in the house for the days after Christmas.

There are so many moms like me out there who need a helping hand this year. So I’ve done some research and came up with a pretty long list of resources. These are organizations that help needy families during the Christmas holidays. They give toys and sometimes clothes to families that need a helping hand during this time of year.

Most of the organizations have local chapters so you will have to contact the one nearest you for more information. Please don’t be shy about calling. They are there to help and often are looking for people to help. The more localized the better for you. Also remember to get a head start on applying for help. Some deadlines have already passed but try anyway. Your persistence will pay off.

Toys for Tots – this organization has many local chapters. Their deadline in some places was in October but they are still taking applications. If they have toys left you will be contacted.

Angel Tree – This program is for kids who have parents in prison.
Salvation Army – Contact your local chapter for information about their program. They don’t collect money in those little red pails for nothing. You just may be one of the families they help this year.

Shiners/Lions/Masons – These organizations are famous for the help they give to children. Call your local office and find out when and where they are taking applications.
St. Vincent de Paul/Catholic Charities – These Catholic organizations help people year around. They have offices in many locations so call and find out where you can go for help.

VFW/American Legion – Your local organization may have a Christmas toy donation program. Be sure to call and find out.

County Help Lines – Your county help line may have information about other local organizations that are helping the needy this Christmas. To find your state or county helpline, Google “[your state] + helpline”. It may show up as a crisis hotline but they may also have information that you can use.

Local Churches – There are likely churches in your area that are collecting toys to give to needy families. Open the phone book and call the churches near you and ask if they have a program. Find out how to get on the list.

Local Businesses – I worked for a large corporation that collected toys every year for needy families. They may work in cooperation with other charitable organizations but many may offer direct help. Look in the newspaper for announcements and call a few to learn about which companies are helping the needy. Also ask your friends if they their companies have programs.

Libraries/Banks – The local library and banks often have Angel or Giving Trees. Ask how you can get your kids’ names on the tree to receive Christmas gifts this year.

United Way – this organization is the umbrella unit of hundreds of charitable organizations. Call your local office and find out what programs they have to help kids for Christmas. I’m sure they can point you in the right direction.

There are likely many more resources out there you just have to investigate the options. Please do not be put off by the word “needy”. It is not an indication of you as a person but a temporary status. We are living in tough economic times right now so everyone is struggling. Fortunately you now have a few resources now to help give your kids a great Christmas.

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Thank You President-Elect Obama (An Open Letter from a Single Mom)

Dear President-Elect Barack Obama,

My heart is singing right now because now my 8 year old son has the chance to become the President of the United States of America one day. If not the president of the USA, perhaps the president of a corporation or the president of his own company.

My son is a struggling second grader at Manning Oaks Elementary. He is a little black boy who seems to have so many odds stacked against him. I am a single mother and like your mother I want the best for my son. I want to see him rise up and become a great man. I showed him your picture today and he saw clips of you on the news. I told him that your name is Barak Obama and that you are our new President. He asked me if he could do that too and I proudly and honestly told him Yes! Yes he can grow up and become president because today we have seen that in America it is possible for a black man to be elected by the people, for the people.

I am thankful to you Mr. Obama for being courageous enough to share your story. Thank you for never giving up amidst all the mudslinging and hateful rhetoric. Your eloquence and intelligence, your firm commitment to rise above the fray has inspired me to teach my son to do the same. I may have to struggle day after day to motivate my son to get his lessons just like your mother did for you. I may have to cry many days and nights because I am exhausted, but I will. I have a dream though, a vision of greatness for my son just like I am sure your mother had for you.

You have made your mother proud and have proven that the sons of single moms do not all grow up to be thugs and drug dealers. They don’t have to be behind bars but, like you, they can pass the bar and go on to teach others how to do the same. The son of a single mother can become the President of the United States of America. A little black boy with wide-eyed dreams, and who now wants me to buy him books, can be whatever he wants to be.

So thank you again Mr. Obama—President-Elect Obama for standing strong. For listening to your mother and for being the change you wanted to see in the world. You have inspired me, you have inspired the world and we stand behind you to re-build America so that my son can have a better future!

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Did You Vote? Your Lone Voice Counts!

Today is one of the most important days in history. Are you a part of that history? Did you get out and vote? If you are reading this post and it's still Tuesday, November 4, 2008, then you probably still have time to get out and vote. Don't waste this opportunity to have a say in who leads your city, state, and country.

Women have fought for the right to have equal pay for equal work, the right to work, and numerous other rights. The right to vote is monumental in our lives. Sometimes it seems like the choices we are a choice between the lesser of two evils. It seems discouraging but I urge you to look deep within your heart and look deep within the eyes of your children and do what is right for the both of you.

As a woman and mother you are the most powerful person in the lives of your children. They depend on you to be a good example. I'm sure that if they are in school they are hearing about the election and may be asking questions. Some may have had mock elections in their schools and proudly exercised their right to vote. My daughter asked me if I voted and a smile and nod of approval crossed her face when I told her that I did.

Being a part of the democratic process is a wonderful feeling. Your vote counts and it will make all the difference in your little world. Your kids will be proud!

Monday, September 22, 2008

The Best Birthday Ever!

These are the words that make any mom happy and I'm sure you're no exception. But sometimes planning an elaborate birthday can be expensive and stressful. So here is a great way to make sure your child has a great birthday the next time around.
You can sign them up for the numerous kid's birthday clubs sponsored by national and local restaurants. Here are a few that I've found and believe me I am going to sign up my kids. They will get coupons for a free meal and/or dessert as well club goodies in the mail.
So go ahead and get them signed up right now. Hint: Get an auto-filler program like the one Google has or Roboform to fill out all those forms. It will save time and effort. Most clubs are for kids 12 and under but some have a cut off of 10 and under.
Here's the list:

Restaurants:

Moe's Southwest Grill

Kids Eat Free on Monday nights - one free kids meal for each adult entree purchased
Also join Mini-Moe's Birthday Club for a free Kids Meal at Lunch or Dinner for your Birthday

Coldstone Creamery Birthday Club
Register and get a free "Creation" for your birthday - coupon has 14 day expiration window

California Pizza Kitchen
Register in Advance
- Children 10 and under can get a free meal during the month of their birthday

Baskin Robbins Birthday Club
Register in Advance
- Free 2.5 oz. Scoop of ice cream on your birthday

Burger King

Join to get great offers at participating BURGER KING® Restaurants plus cool birthday surprises on your special day.

Boston Market Birthday Club
Register in advance
- Coupon for a free kids meal, drink and dessert
http://www.bostonmarket.com/specials?page=kidsBirthdayClub


Red Lobster's Overboard Club
Register in advance
Get a special gift on your birthday and other discounts throughout the year

Bob Evans Birthday Club
Register in Advance
Get a free kids meal for your birthday

Red Robin E-Club
Register in Advance
A free gift for signing up and a free Burger on your Birthday


Shoney’s
12 years old or younger, you can join the Cub Club


Famous Daves
FamousDaves BBQ Bdayclub TX OK ND SD NE MN IA WI IL OH IN KY CO TN AL GA VA MD NJ DE Free GC On Your Birthday from Famous Daves BBQ Birthday Club

Captain D’s


Abbott's Frozen Custard

Get a free frozen Custard on your birthday.

Firehouse Subs

Join the Firehouse Subs Birthday Club and enjoy a free sub on your birthday.


Friendly's Restaurant

Free Kids' Meal which includes a Friendly's Kids' Sundae, sign up for the Friendly's Birthday Club.


Marble Slab

Free Child's Size Ice Cream Cone, with Mixin, for each of your birthdays, through age 12.


Panchos Mexican Buffet

Join the Birthday Fiesta Club and on your next birthday you'll be a Pancho's guest for free lunch or dinner. (Arizona, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma & Texas locations)


Ryans

Free Birthday and Anniversary coupons, plus get a Free meal for joining their club.


Sonic

Your child will receive a birthday greeting for a FREE Wacky Pack kids' meal during the week of his or her birthday.


Taco Time

Kids 12 years of age or younger can receive a coupon for a free Kids Meal on their next birthday! (Northwest area only)

Zaxby's Birthday Club

www.zaxbys.com/bday.html

Marie Callender’s:

For the birthday child, they will receive a birthday post card and it’s good for a free kids meal along with a free kids treat from the bakery! Visit your local Marie Callender’s or fill this out online. (Adults, you too can fill this offer out and receive $5 off your meal and receive a free piece of pie for your birthday!)


Other Stores:

Toys R Us

Geoffrey’s Birthday Club is for children up through age 10.


The Picture People

Sign up for their Birthday Club and you’ll receive special offers in the mail for your child’s special day.


Olan Mills

A perfect way to record your child's growth. Simply sign up, and have your child's portrait taken every year on his or her birthday, up until 3 years of age.


Hollywood Video

Come in for a free Hollywood Film Library® rental on your birthday


Kids Talk

Kids Talk is especially for boys and girls 12 years of age and younger.


Hot Wheels
Hot Wheels Birthday Club!


Oogles ‘n Googles

A birthday club. Enjoy!

Rich Single Momma

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Stress Management for Single Moms

Are you stressing? I know as a single mom stress often creeps on me and lingers for longer than I want it to. It gets so bad at times that I just want to crawl under my covers and never come out. When I was younger I handled stress better, meaning it did not take such a physical toll on my body. These days it’s a different story.

Lately when I get stressed I get insomnia. I either go right off to sleep then wake up at 3am or have trouble falling asleep then waking up at 2am. My mind rolls on endlessly about all the things I have to do or problems that are happening at the time.

The other physical effects of stress for me are loss of appetite, stomach ache, and if it’s really serious I completely miss my monthly cycle. Some would cheer over that last symptom, but it’s not fun (especially if you’re not active if you know what I mean). A couple years ago my doctor announced that I was pre-menopausal or had prematurely entered menopause. I was having all the symptoms of a woman going through “the change”.

So I’ve had to find ways to cope that don’t involve drugs. I tend to be pretty health conscious and am always looking for a natural alternative. There are several things I do to relieve the stress but the most effective thing I do is incorporate lavender in my life. Some of you may have seen the baby wash commercials a while back that claim to soothe your baby to sleep. Well let me tell you that it works for adults too. Since I have been using lavender I fall asleep and stay asleep. I feel rested and much better.

You can read more about it on my Squidoo lens. When you finish reading it please rate it and leave a comment. If you’d like to know more about the other natural alternatives I use let me know so we can get you to a peaceful place.

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

The Truth About Single Mom Grants

Grants specifically earmarked for single mothers, in general, don't exist. There are grants single mothers can apply for based on other criteria such as income-based, ethnic group, residency, career interest, knowledge base, etc. Free money or grants specifically for being a single mom is hard to come by. There may be organizations offering temporary assistance such as churches, state and/or local government (not federal), several private, and a handful of corporate organizations.

A lot of the so-called free grant information online is linked to products and services of very little value and relevance to single moms. When you click on the hyped-up ad, you most likely land on a link farm or page full of links to other pages created by a person who has several affiliate program links embedded.

The Hype about Single Mom Grants

Everyday millions of single moms, desperate for financial assistance scour the web looking for grants. They see ads touting millions for single moms only to be disappointed when they land on the webpage which is usually full of links or other irrelevant ads. Not to be deterred she searches high and low for grants she seems to qualify for. Frustration sets in and she usually gives up. In one last ditch effort she heads over to the forums and inquires and again she is pointed to the same websites full of links to pointless pages of ad hype. Even though the search seems fruitless, there are sources of grants and financial assistance but only under certain circumstances. Here are a few sources of grants for single moms which require more than a quick glance. It requires research and asking the right questions.

Check locally for Single Mom Grants

There may be local organizations, usually non-profit that give grants or assistance to single moms. These resources may not necessarily be in the form of money, but may be housing assistance, food, or job training. Resources could also be in the form of grants to children of single moms for summer camps, sports or music lessons, or medical assistance. Do a search on your city or state plus the words “grant”, “financial assistance”, or “scholarship” and you may come up with a few sources meeting your needs.

For more information about grants for single moms grab my free eReport on the right. It contains lots of great information and an interview from a very successful grant writer.

Rich Single Mom Sam

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Hydrogen Peroxide - Natures Cheap and All-around Sanitizer

I have been using Hydogen Peroxide for years now. My mom used it when I was a little girl whenever I scraped my leg or arms. It stung for a minute and bubbled up but it worked. I never got infections and it healed pretty well.
A couple years ago I found out that Hydrogen Peroxide has many more benefits than I could have imagined. It gets out blood stains, disinfects tooth brushes, is a great mouth wash and tooth whitener, and so much more. Do a search on the "benefits of Hydrogen Peroxide" and you many websites will come up that tells you in much more detail than I can. But here is what I came up with and summarize.
Hydrogen peroxide is the world's most natural effective
sanitizer. Why? Because it is the only anti-germicidal
agent composed entirely of water and oxygen.

The chemical formula for hydrogen peroxide is H202, and
the body produces it naturally when in a state of
optimal health. When the body becomes weak or diseased,
it is unable to produce the high amounts of H202 needed
to kill off infection and when the body is unable to
fight off infection, disease results.

H202 works by creating an environment of intensive
oxidation, which can be described as a type of chemical
reaction which causes the breakdown of organic
substances. H202 is vital for maintaining the body's
natural health. In fact, the effectiveness of
penicillin is related to its capacity to rejuvenate the
level of H202 in the body. In essence, penicillin works
by helping the body build up enough H202 to fight off
bacteria and viruses. Most harmful bacteria are
anaerobic, which means they can not survive in a highly
oxygenated environment.

Newer research suggests that we need certain levels of
hydrogen peroxide in order to facilitate normal
chemical reactions and to maintain the proper balance
of good bacteria in our system. Good bacteria are
generally aerobic, which means they will function well
in oxygen rich environments.

Aside from the health benefits of hydrogen peroxide,
there are many other uses for this "wonder" compound.
Anecdotal information suggests that hydrogen peroxide
can be used all over the house, in the following ways:

1) To clean and sanitize the kitchen. Use a 3%
solution to refresh counters and sanitize lunch boxes.


2) To clean vegetables and fruits. Add 1/4 cup of H2O2
to a sink of cold water. Add vegetables and fruits wash
thoroughly and rinse with cool water. This will prolong
the freshness and taste.

3) Wound care. Bathing or misting a wound with hydrogen
peroxide will help clean it while it speeds healing.

4) For your toothbrush. Soaking your toothbrush in
hydrogen peroxide between uses will keep it clean and
prevent transfer of germs. This would be particularly
helpful when your or someone in your family has a cold
or the flu.

5) As an astringent. Dabbing hydrogen peroxide on
pimples or acne will have you on your way to clearer
skin.

These are just a few of the many ways you can use
hydrogen peroxide in and around your home. There are
many others. Some people swear that ingestion of small
amounts of food grade, diluted hydrogen peroxide
provides complete body cleansing. (But only do this
under a doctor's supervision). People also use it to
help household plants grow, and to sprout seeds for new
plantings. The variety and possible uses make hydrogen
peroxide a "must-have" for a well stocked house.

No matter how you choose to use it, it's clear that
regular use of H202 will keep your house fresh and your
family healthy.

Rich Single Momma

Everyday Vacations

Take a Vacation Every Day

Is modern-day society leading to the extinction of free
time? It seems that the days of having plenty of time
to accomplish all of the normal day-to-day
responsibilities and having a bit of free time are
virtually gone.

How did this happen? All of the new technological
advances should be providing an abundance of free time.
Nearly everything has been automated in some way.
There are fast cars to transport us quickly to our
destination, dishwashers and robotic vacuum cleaners to
take care of household tasks, cell phones for immediate
communication and problem resolution, and computers to
speed up previously tedious tasks.

The problem seems to be that because we are capable of
doing so much, the expectations are higher. The bar
has risen. Our employers, our families and even we
have ever-increasing demands on our time. What can be
done to draw the line and hold on to a bit of sanity in
our lives?

One technique is to take a "vacation" every day. That
is not to say go away on a literal trip every day, but
rather take a break and do something enjoyable each
day. Allot some time each day whether it be thirty
minutes or even ten to do something truly enjoyable and
satisfying. For some this may mean doing nothing at
all. For others, it may mean doing something
meaningful that normally is not given full priority
over other obligations.

A sense of well-being can be accomplished with thirty
minutes of reading a good book, playing with the dog,
or simply relaxing under a big shade tree. Even ten
minutes of a relaxing activity can be extremely
beneficial in this day of non-stop constant on-the-go
activity. A ten minute rest for the eyes can really
add a spark to a dragging energy level. A quick walk
around the grounds can also offer a much needed break
and a chance to clear the mind.

Occasionally, when a greater amount of time can be set
aside, mini-vacations or outings should be planned. It
is important to include some fun in everyday life.
Extreme work schedules can ultimately lead to burnout
and other serious problems. Amazingly, time off spent
doing enjoyable activities can actually lead to more
productivity in work and family responsibilities.

It is reported that many in Corporate America are not
taking their earned vacation time in full. And, if
they do manage to take a vacation, they are taking
their cell phones and personal digital assistants with
them. It is important to find a way to take advantage
of this valuable time off. In terms of value, it is a
matter of health rather than dollars and cents. The
health of the country depends on utilizing time off for
personal relaxation and pursuits.

With a little planning and discipline, a balance
between work and life can be realized.

Rich Single Momma

Cashless Resources

Free Tickets
If you are going to be in Hollywood, California, you might want to see a TV show. Here is a link to free tickets to the most popular shows on TV. We might see you on television one day!

Free Website for Your Business
I recently learned that Microsoft is offers free websites to small businesses. You may have a part-time business, but don't have a website, so this is the perfect opportunity to get one up and running. You don't have to have a business to use the service. There are three levels of service which are all free right now, but after a while the two highest will require a monthly fee. The lowest level will remain free. Check it out.

Free Directory Assistance
Directory Assistance is a must when you are traveling or going to a new place and need information or directions to a business. With 411-Metro you can get free directory assistance, even on your cell phone. I have used it and really appreciate the service. The number to dial is 1-800-411-METRO.


Rich Single Momma

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

If Not Now? When?

It's time for single moms to get with the program. I know, I know, there are not enough hours in the day to put forth the effort to be rich. Well I am here to tell you that you better make time, because your knight on the white horse may not be coming around the corner anytime soon.

Doing this parenting thing alone sucks and being broke sucks. But you have a couple of choices, you can bitch and moan about your fate or you can get off your %$#$ and do something different. I am by no means rich, yet. But I am on the path to being rich. It will take time, just like building a bridge or incubating an unborn child takes time, so don't even think about rushing this process.

I hope you will join me on this journey as I explore the 1001 ways to make money, save money, and invest money so that it works for you. Wealth is not just about how large your bank account is, but it sure does help pay the bills! Let's get started shall we?