You're On a Special Assignment by Brook Marie Eneas

As a mom, you are on a special assignment. In your very capable hands, you have the awesome responsibility to help shape the next generation. This is an incredible thought. Just to think about how legends in the past must have been impacted by their households makes me realize how really important my assignment is to raise up my sons to embrace the future leaders they will become. Very often, I hear the importance of creating a vision for life but this principle is vitally important when considering child rearing. What is your vision for your child? How will you develop their character? How will they treat and relate to the opposite sex? We must visualize where we want them to end up and then learn to break our overall vision into bite size pieces so that we can create the masterpiece we desire.

When both my sons were born, my husband and I sat down and wrote out life plans for our sons. Don’t get us wrong, we didn’t plan out every detail of their lives but we did, however, develop an action plan on how we would create an atmosphere conducive to pulling out every gift our sons were divinely designed with. Did you know that now-a-days, the average college student takes 6 years to finish a 4 year degree due to multiple changes in majors; and, 40% never finish at all. Only 10-15% of those who finish college go on to work in the field for which they spent years and thousands of dollars preparing. When I hear statistics such as these, I wonder how good a job we are doing in parenting.

We have an obligation as mothers to:

• Help our young ones figure out their purpose and teach them not to run after careers because of fame or fortune. In our society, we are enthralled with these two themes and deter our children from fulfilling their passion resulting in generations that are out of place and who seek affirmation in things and status versus their Creator.
• Take notice of each of their gifts--no matter how small it may appear. Write down your observations and help them put the pieces of the puzzle together. Just imagine before David became King, he was overlooked and not even considered for the position.
• Choose to speak life. Words are extremely powerful and have the ability to mold their perspective and shape their lives. This truth holds true especially when their behavior is contrary to our expectations. Remind them of who they are.
• Develop relationships, have mutual respect and cultivate a connection with your children. My mother was a rock star at this and because she took the time to know each of us in a very special way, we have remained extremely close even to this day.

One day, you children, like Abraham Lincoln will turn back with gratitude in their hearts and say, “All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother." Embrace your assignment.

Brook Marie Eneas @dgiinspired, has an uncommon gift to inspire women and girls to live their dreams through her passion as a life coach, fitness coach and motivational speaker.  www.dgiinspired.com

Would you ever carry a Skunk Purse???

Skunk-Fur Purse by Tom Ford

Ok, so I'm confused....even in the name of fashion I don't understand why anyone would want to carry a skunk purse.  Sure, black and white is a classy color duo...but when I think of skunks I think of stink, not beauty.

Well apparently, designer, Tom Ford thinks that women will pay $1660 for a purse covered in Skunk Fur....The purse is being carried at Neimen Marcus. 

Hmmmm. Sorry, but not this Stiletto Mommy.

Would you carry a skunk fur purse?

The Scariest Stilettos I've Ever Seen!

Ok...So I am officially traumatized!  I have just witnessed the scariest pair of stilettos known to man.  The shoe is appropriately called, "Scary Beautiful," and is the creation of artist Leanie van der Vyver and Dutch shoe designer René van den Berg.  According to the video commentary on Vimeo, the shoes serve as an example of today's impossible standards of beauty.

The stilettos appear backwards on the foot, so the wearers feet point straight down the back, as if in ballet shoes, with their shin leaning against the front "heel" end of the design to balance.  Look at the video below to see the model walking...VERY CAREFULLY...in the shoes.  Imagine chasing your kids around with these on...



Scary Beautiful (Leanie van der Vyver) from Lyall Coburn on Vimeo.

Self Defense for Women Part One: What's in Your Purse

For the next three weeks I am taking a Women's Self-Defense Class!  I was really excited to be part of the class and took a BAZILLION notes, lol.  Over the next few days I am going to be talking to you about the things I learned in that class as the teacher encouraged us to share with all women that we know.

This first lesson I want to share is, "What's in Your Purse?" Believe it or not there are many things in our purse that we can use to protect ourselves.  Take a look at the 3 minute video below to see how to use your lipstick as a weapon :-)

One of My Greatest Discoveries by Brook Eneas

One of the most challenging times in my life was right out of college where for the very first time in my life, I was faced with “me.”  Here I was single, educated and confused and trying to figure out who I was seemed nearly impossible in a world that could really care less. 

It was during this time that I cried the most and prayed the hardest. 

It was during this time that I realized that I was carrying hurt from my past that had been hidden from plain sight. 

It was during this time that I came to grips with some of my fears, character flaws, idiosyncrasies and gifts. 

It was during this time that I surrendered. 

As a mother, I have come to really appreciate that time in my life because it has served as a foundation for me personally and especially my household. It helped me to prioritize the things that are most important to me, shifted my perspective on my value and it placed me on a different path toward my destiny. Over the past decade, I have spoken to countless girls and women about self-discovery only to realize that there are only a few who have really taken time to know themselves. Many women are stuck in careers that they hate, in marriages where they feel alone, and in circles where they wear masks. Teenage girls are searching for themselves too but often times get caught up in the “rebelling/exploring” cycle, the “good girl” cycle, or the “vanity” cycle all the while struggling to really figure out who they are. 

While self-discovery is a life long journey, it starts with a single step. Making time to be alone in the presence of God is one of the greatest things we as moms can do. Ultimately, He is the only one who really knows you simply because He made you. Challenge yourself to endure through this time of exploration because not only will it benefit you, but everyone around you. It’s time for you to discover the greatest you ever. 

Brook Marie Eneas @dgiinspired, has an uncommon gift to inspire women and girlsto live their dreams through her passion as a life coach, fitness coachand motivational speaker.  www.dgiinspired.com

A lesson learned from my Mommy/Daughter Day

Today it was just me and the little one. My five year old princess,Amari ans I traveled through four states today. We watched birds, marveled at the shapes and caves some fallen trees had made and finished it off with some ice cream.

Initially, this was supposed to be a pamper me day, but I am so glad I chose to skip the "me" day and spend it with my princess.

Let me be very honest, Amari is the baby of the family and she is spoiled by EVERYONE. She is the child that tends to be the most challenging because she is very vocal about what she wants and what she believes is right..,, whether she really is right or not. However today she was an absolute dream.

As always I find myself learning from my children. Today we happened to pass a playground in our travels and she jumped right in playing with the children, quickly making friends. At first I was nervous about letting her run around by herself and walked around the swings and slide with her. Just as I was getting ready to follow her to another toy she looked at me and said "Mommy, you can go and sit down."

It wasn't rude, as a matter of fact it said in a comforting tone that let me know I COULD and NEEDED to let her go just a little bit.

So I did what she asked... I sat down at the table she had pointed out. It within the fenced in playground, and was close by. I sat there and slowly let her grow up... Only a little bit though I still had a very watchful eye on her lol.

The lesson for the day was learn when to let go.... Just a little :-)

My first day as a coupon queen!

I can't really say why I never took advantage of those little pieces of paper called coupons, but I had an epiphany last week.  Last week I decided to start clipping coupons.  I will be honest it was overwhelming at first...there are just so many out there!

Making my Menu

So I went to a site called The Krazy Coupon Lady (www.thekrazycouponlady.com) and my addiction began to bloom from there.

I am still learning but I finally decided to make a menu for the rest of the month and go from there.  For example, I knew I wanted to grab some snacks like Fruit Roll Ups and Little Debbie snacks for my kids, so I decided to look up coupons for specific items.  At the end of it all I saved $50 at the store!
I can't wait to keep learning how to coupon and bust my grocery bill!

Make Up Your Face in Five Minutes!

I don't claim to be a make up artist, but I have picked up some tricks of the trade along the way with doing pageants and such.  I find that though I love applying make up, sometimes running behind four children tends to put makeup on the back burner

Over the years I've learned that if you concentrate on your Eyes, Lips, and Cheeks, you will be good to go.  This will not only add a little glamour to your life, but it will also give a natural look and glow to your overall look.
Gather a Few Items:

• Foundation
• Moisturizing Lotion (that you can apply to your face...scented lotions may be an irritant to your skin)
• Eyeliner (in the video I use a Gel liner)
• Mascara
• Blush
• Bronzer
• Lip Gloss
• Lip Stick (A few shades lighter than your lips for a nude look)

Watch this quick 'How To Video" for getting glam in five minutes!

Child's death prompts recall of window blinds

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in conjunction with Blind Xpress of Livonia, Michigan, have recalled approximately 139,000 custom made vertical blinds and 315,000 horizontal blinds. Therecall was issued due to the death of a two-year old girl from Commerce Township, Michigan. The death happened in 2009 when the toddler was strangled in the loop of the vertical blind cord that was not attached to the wall or floor.

Though it has been three years since the toddler’s death, the recall was determined to be the best course of action. According to the CPSC report, “Blind Xpress custom vertical blinds have an adjustment cord that forms a loop that is not attached to the wall or floor. In some instances, this loop has a weighted device at the bottom. The custom horizontal blinds do not have inner cord stop devices to prevent the accessible inner cords from being pulled out. A child can become entangled in a cord loop and strangle.”

Blind Xpress Recall

Photo credit:  

Blind Xpress 

The blinds were sold at various blind specialty stores in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana from January 1995 through December 2011 for between $16 and $380. Consumers are being urged consumers to immediately stop using the window coverings and contact the Window Covering Safety Council (WCSC) to receive a free repair kit. For more information, contact the WCSC toll-free at (800) 506-4636 anytime or visit www.windowcoverings.org. View the full recall on the CPSC's website:www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml12/12273.html.

See this article on the Examiner: http://www.examiner.com/article/child-s-death-prompts-recall-of-window-blinds?cid=db_articles

Halle Berry wows on the Red Carpet Toronto Film Festival

Stiletto Mommy, Halle Berry was seen at the Toronto Film Festival for the premiere of her new film, "Cloud Atlas."  Berry stunned the crowd in a figure-hugging Roberto Cavalli Suit and Sheer Top with a black lace bra underneath.

Berry receives 5 Stilettos from us at Motherhood in Stilettos.  We understand that everyone wouldn't wear the outfit, but it is so rocker chic given the right time and place, and it takes a HAUTE mamma to rock this outfit...not to mention you can see that she is still in great shape.

Moms can opt to recreate this look by going with a form fitted suit, sheer top, and maybe add a camisole if you are uncomfortable with showing your bra.

Dixie Chicks' Emily Robison welcomes fourth child

Dixie Chicks' Emily Robison gave birth to her fourth child on Tuesday, September 4th at 3:01 a.m. Baby girl Violet Isabel Strayer weighed in at 8.5 pounds.  40-year-old Robison is also mom to twins Juliana Tex and Henry Benjamin, age 7, and son Charles Augustus, age 9.  The children are from her marriage to ex-husband Charlie Robison.

A representative for Robinson told US Magazine, “Mom and baby Violet are doing well and Dad couldn’t be happier.”

Violet Isabel Strayer is the first child together for Robison and her boyfriend Martin Strayer.  Martin Strayer is the guitarist for Court Yard Hounds, a country music duo founded by Robison and sister and Dixie Chicks’ member, Martie Maguire.  The band was formed during a hiatus from Dixie Chicks.

The Dixie Chicks are the highest selling female group in any genre. They are the only country group in history and the only female group of any genre to earn back-to-back Diamond Awards signifying 10 million in record sales. For more information about the Dixie Chicks log onto: www.dixiechicks.com

Read this article on the Examiner: http://www.examiner.com/article/dixie-chicks-emily-robison-welcomes-fourth-child

Jessica Simpson uses her battle with weight to inspire all women

Jessica Simpson is used to being scrutinized for her body.  The singer-fashion mogul recently revealed in an interview with USA Today that her baby weight hasn’t just fallen off like many women experience.  "I let myself indulge in everything I wanted because it was the first time I was ever pregnant,” Simpson said. “I wanted to enjoy it. I wanted to be happy and eat what I wanted." 

Simpson gave birth to her daughter, Maxwell Drew on May 1, 2012.  In March, Simpson had given information that she was already 170 pounds, with the birth of her daughter she was faced with the task of dropping weight, “I didn’t realize it didn’t all come off with the baby.”

Simpson signed a $4 million deal with Weight Watchers to be their spokesperson and help her shed the extra baby pounds. The first commercial will air next week around the same time as her September 10, 2012, interview with Katie Couric.  Simpson will be revealing her post-pregnancy figure on Couric's new show.

READ MY ARTICLE ON THE EXAMINER: http://www.examiner.com/article/jessica-simpson-uses-her-battle-with-weight-to-inspire-all-women

Watch the Full Speech by First Lady Michelle Obama

Last night, September 4, 2012, First Lady Michelle Obama gave a rousing speech at the Democratic National Convention.  First Lady Obama entered the room to a standing ovation that lasted for more than a minute before she could begin.

First Lady Michelle Obama is a true Stiletto Mommy! Take a look:

Today is Your Day by Brooke Marie Eneas

What’s really holding you back from living your best life?  We tell our kids that they can be anything that they want to be when in reality many of us are not living up to our own potential and pursuing the wildest dreams that are secretly hidden in our hearts. We settle for less by thinking about all the reasons we “cannot” instead of thinking of the possibilities of why we “can”.  What’s on your list of cannot? Is it that you don’t have enough time, money, energy, knowledge, or help? Or are you just simply afraid to step out and believe what really can be yours and the very thought of “walking on water” paralyzes you?

Listen, YOU were created to create. Everything you need is already in you.

What does not exist right now may be in your reach to develop.  I have always been different—when others told me it wasn’t possible, it really was.  When I didn’t necessarily qualify for the position, I was still promoted.  When things didn’t exist, I created it.  Here’s my bucket list of principles I used to design my life:

Vicki Sarber is crowned Mrs. America 2012

Tonight, 51 women competed for the title of Mrs. America at the Lowes Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson, Arizona. Nearly two thousand viewers tuned into the three hour production on Livestream as Vicki Sarber (Alaska) captured the title of Mrs. America 2012.

The pageant was hosted by Florence Henderson from the iconic series, The Brady Bunch, and her daughter and actress, Barbara Chase. The duo kept the crowd laughing and entertained. After a high powered opening number LaHoma Caudill (California) was announced as Mrs. Congeniality, and Leah Bartos (New York) received the Publication Award.
 

Tori Spellng welcomes fourth child

From torispelling.com

Tori Spelling and her husband, Dean McDemott welcomed their fourth child, a son, on Thursday, August 30, 2012, at 5:39 p.m. "We are so excited to announce the birth of the newest member of the McDermott family," Spelling wrote on her website. "Please join us in welcoming Finn Davey McDermott."

Finn entered the world weighing six pounds, six ounces and measuring 20 inches long. Baby Finn joins Hattie, along with Stella, age four, and big brother Liam, age five. McDemott, 44, also has a son from a previous marriage

The 39-year-old, Spelling, announced the pregnancy back in March when Hattie Margaret was just six months old. Though Spelling says that she is in love with pregnancy, she announed earlier this week on her site, ediTORIal, that this would probably be the last one.

In addition to balancing life as a mother and wife, Spelling is also the host of Craft Wars on TLC. Craft Wars airs every Tuesday at 8/7 Central. For more information about Tori Spelling and family, log onto: www.torispelling.com

See this article on the Examiner: http://www.examiner.com/article/tori-spelling-welcomes-fourth-child?cid=db_articles

Urban Outfitters New line of T-Shirts Promotes Drinking to Teens

By Tamika Hall, Motherhood Examiner Column

Yahoo Shine Released information about Urban Outfitters’ new line of t-shirts with such slogans as “I Vote for Vodka” and “USA Drinking Team.” One of their models is a young woman who appears to be a teenager wearing a t-shirt with blurred out letters that reads, “I Drink You’re Cute.”

*Click Here to Read the Rest of My Article on the Examiner*

Glam on the Go for Stiletto Mommies!

By Tiffany Jeffers, Beauty Expert

If you are a Mommy in Stilettos like me, then you know that looking like it sometimes can be a challenge! Between baby spit up, baby powder and other unmentionable items we have to deal with, our own grooming and beauty can be last on our list of things to do. However, it is extremely important to our health and sanity that we take at least 15 precious minutes each day to ourselves that are dedicated to making ourselves look and feel beautiful.

Now, that you have stopped chuckling, please know that I understand how daunting that task may be for you. But trust me, I have learned to fight for those moments and have even learned that my “Mommy Time” may not happen at the same time every day, however I have to be creative in making sure it happens for me…EVERY day! Why, because I deserve it…and so do you!

So, how do we make the most of our “Mommy Time?” Well, I will list a few tips that help me when I am able to grasp them…and each of these things take a few moments to do, so group them together as they fit for you!

Two Secrets to balancing Family, Fitness, & Healthy Living!

By Ericka Denke, Fitness/Nutrition Coach

Want to know two Secrets to Keeping Your Kids Vibrant, Strong and Healthy?  Well, it starts with you!  Parents, wish you could change and lead a PROACTIVE, healthy lifestyle for yourself and your family? If you answered "yes," continue reading.

 

In this article, I will tell you 2 ways to incorporate healthy eating and an active lifestyle into your day; because America's weight is spinning out of control (we KNOW this!) But as parents, it is our responsibility to teach our children the do's and don’ts of caring for themselves, so it only makes sense that we start with the basics. 

Tactic #1: Eat HEALTHY

Healthy eating means eating foods as close as possible to their natural state.

A natural, wholesome food WILL NOT contain these 3 ingredients:

1.  High Fructose Corn Syrup
2. Artificial Ingredients (Colors, Flavors, Sugar)
3.  Hydrogenated or Partially Hydrogenated Oils

Bangin' Baked Beans | Soul Food in Stilettos Kitchen

Jazz up that boring can of Baked Beans with this very simple recipe.  Special thanks to Stiletto Mommy, Tee Tunnell Harris for allowing me to film in her kitchen :-) Baked Beans are great with most meals. This dish was created for a family cook out and the taste was great with our grilled Turkey Burgers & Hot Dogs!!

Time Management for Single Mommies

By Rosanna Cooper, Single Parenting Column

Who Has Time for That? This phrase is probably the one that spends the most time in a single parent’s head. For me, I’m not even talking about time to start a new business or get another degree. I’m referring to making up my bed before leaving the house in the morning.

Yesterday, I sent a follower request Twitter to a business owner in my office building. She sent a message stating I should come by some time. I responded I work in the building and often run into her at the Chinese restaurant during lunch. My mind immediately went back to a question my boyfriend asked me Saturday, “Did you ever find a new hair stylist?” At that moment, I realized the owner did not recognize me because the pictures on my Twitter and website were often not who she saw. 

Cheers to a New Beginning on LIfe!

By Rosanna Cooper, Single Parenting Column

Happy New Year! You’re probably thinking this is an old article. But no, I’m writing this in August 2012, the beginning of the school year of most children in the country. This year is not only a new school year for us, but a new school as a whole. People often talk about the challenges kids face when starting a new school but I have never heard anyone talk about the challenges parents face.

Overcoming Post-Partum Depression

I released an article on Singer/Songwriter Alanis Morrisette who recently spoke openly with British Magazine about her experience with Post-Partum Depression.  I silently suffered with this in 2007 with the birth of my daughter.  Here is my experience with it:

  Read my article on Alanis Morrisette:  www.examiner.com/article/alanis-morrisette-talks-about-overcoming-post-partum-depression

Summer Cold, Lack of Sleep, and Kids...Oh My!

I have been dealing with the worst Summer cold I have ever had...yikes! One day I was trying to get some sleep and my children kept interrupting my sleep with crazy issues like fighting over toys and the fact that one was starring at the other one.  I promise I think one complained that it was Monday and not Tuesday...I'm just sayin.

Anyway, that day was the motivation for this latest video, "Can I get Some Sleep Please?"

Mommy & Me Classroom| Piano Class Lesson #1

Tee Tunnell-Harris of The Keys Productions brings us her virtual piano class to Motherhood in Stilettos.  This first lesson focuses finger placement and the C-Major Scale. So grab your computer, pull up to your piano or keyboard, and you and your child will begin to learn how to play the piano. Please leave a comment and let us know that you have been taking the classes and how you are progressing :-)

Spanish Time! Lesson #1: Hello, My Name Is

We love the Spanish language in the Hall house!  There aren't any classes for kids where we live so my husband and I have taken to teaching our children how to speak the language.  Here is an early lesson from 2010.  Learn how to say. "Hello," "What is your name," and "My name is!"

Funny Parenting Tip #2: Keep those hands off the wall

I have white walls in my house and I have to wash them at least once a week. Eeek!  The reason? My kids act like they can't walk anywhere without being supported by putting their hands on the wall. So....(hehehehe) I created The Mommy Buzzer.  Check out this 2-minute video.  It's a quick solution for keeping your walls nice and pearly white :-)

The Make Up Lesson

I was in the bathroom doing my makeup when I looked down and realized that my daughter was following my every move. So I decided to step out of the norm, squatted down to her level, and allowed her to mirror me and my motions.  I captured this special moment on video.  Take the next 60 seconds to find out what I learned from my oldest daughter that day about makeup:

Let's Cook! Family Fun Nacho Night!

What are you cooking tonight?  If you are short on time or you want something fun for the whole family to dig into, try our Family Fun Nacho Night dish.

Parenting in Stilettos: Stop Whining!

I adore my children, but the one thing that will make me want jump out of my bedroom window is whining. Ugh...I can't stand it.  Want to know how I manage not to pluck my own eyes out?  Watch this quick parenting tip on how to stop the whining :-).

Conversations: Getting through the Airport with a Paper ID!

Honey, I know it's a hot mess!!! Lol

So I'm trying to get through the airport and I actually get stopped by two supervisors! Go figure!  Anyway, it was an interesting thirty-five minutes. I actually thought I wasn't going to be able to go home. It had to do with the lack of ID.  Watch this short 3 minute video to find out how I got through the airport with this paper ID.

Shrimp & Tomato Basil Scampi

This shrimp scampi recipe is not only tasty but incredibly easy to make!  A quick recipe made with shrimp, butter, basil, oregano, lemon pepper, & stewed tomatoes.  I didn't use White Wine in this recipe but I explain where you can add it in easily.

 

 

Homemade Ranch Dressing

Ranch Dressing is an absolute necessity in the Hall household. We love it so much that I set out to create an easy and affordable recipe. Take a look!

Grandma's Easy Peasy Rice Pudding

My grandmother (I call her Mom-Mom) makes THE BEST rice pudding I have ever eaten! I've always thought it was something that was difficult to make and took a lot of time. Well, I've come up with a quick recipe that takes about 15 minutes to prepare! I'm serious! Take a look:

 

Three Bean Turkey & Sweet Sausage Chili

Learn how to cook Tamika's family famous, Three Bean Turkey & Sweet Sausage Chili. We know...it's a tongue twister, but the taste is a CROWD PLEASER! This meal takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and can be made under $10.