#balancing motherhood and self-care

[365momme]

The Art of Saying No: Protecting Your Time and Energy

As moms, we often wear many hats—mother, worker, caregiver, chef, chauffeur, teacher, friend, and the list goes on. With so much to juggle, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and stretched far too thin. The result? Anxiety, burnout, and a constant sense of being pulled in too many directions. While we may have heard the phrase “self-care” countless times, the truth is, it’s more than just…

[rfyimmo]

My Quarter-Life Crisis is trying to kill me. | MillennialMomManifesto

My kid was watching a nursery rhyme that said "Don't throw your junk in my back yard, my backyard’s full," and I froze, my mind spiraling until I sank into the floor and cried, Summer Walker style. Panic attack? Adult tantrum? How many times are my peers and women of my generation finding ourselves in positions like this?... And Why...?

The more I gain the confidence to speak with my peers about instances like these or the catalysts for such, I realize things like this are happening to most of us right now. Our unhappiness is mentally & physically showing itself in our faith, health, mind, bodies, actions and reactions.

Sociologists say "Mid-Life" by today's standards is between ages 35-75 🧐

What do you count as middle-aged? At almost 30, I feel like I used to think this was it, but now, I refuse to accept that. All my life society and media showed us mid-life crises were usually for 30 or 40-something year old men buying sports cars and trading in their wives for newer models, but today what does that look like? 

I'm calling it a quarter life crisis (and not mid-life crisis) because if the people in the Bible lived hundreds of years & there are still Centenarian Blue Zones on this modern day planet, I hope this is not the middle. I hoping we have so much more to go. Most people want to live longer and climb the proverbial ladder quicker - so that's where the crisis kicks in. My peers and I are trying not to be crushed under student debt, living costs that don't match the wage gaps, and dreams we don't know how to make come true, but still daily haunt us. Queue the panic about not being where we thought we would by now or how much we feel we should have gotten accomplished and comparison to our peers' highlight reels online.

Being super is tough: It's a constant battle of figuring out when to use your powers (for good or for evil), balancing your secret identity, maintaining your energy and constantly improving your powers or learning new ones.

Good Vs. Evil: Remember that panic from earlier? You know, the panic enacted by milestones you thought you would reach by now? Write down what you want, how you want to get it, and form a timeline to make it happen. Seeing your plan on paper can help ground you.

Secret Identity: Make the best of this time! Even if it doesn’t feel like it, you are supposed to be here in this moment. There is more than one way to navigate life, careers, etc. Why else would there be so many paths if people were not meant to be different and explore different options. Do what works for you! Your powers are different form the supe next to you, and there are still muggles and mortals with no powers at all. Queue the Gratitude & Mindfullness.

Maintaining Energy: They say life gets better with age, so think of yourself and where you were 1, 3, 5, and even 10 years ago! You would KILL to know, do, have the things you do now & you learn daily how to do this life thing a little bit better than yesterday. Consider this quarter or midlife crisis a pitstop for refocus, weather this transition with reflection and grace for yourself. Identify the wisdom you have and apply it to new areas. 

"The purpose of your life is to find your gift, the work of life is to develop it, and the meaning of life is to give it away."

As far as Powers: I leave you with this quote:

"Midlife is when the primary operating system of your life shifts from the ego to the soul. It's a period when people start to rearrange what gives meaning to themselves."

As a 'SuperMom' This is How I'm Running on Sustainable & Renewable Energy:

While the early 20s and late teens are living their "Rich 'Hot Girl' Era", I'm trying to find my way into "Wealthy Hot Mom Era" who Dabbles in "Mob Wife."

✨A few Podcast Recommendations:🌤️

From Broken To Branding: B Simone on Nice & Neat

Highlighted Quote: "I wasn't protected as a child so I think that's where a lot of my comedy comes from I walk on eggshells a lot trying to people please and I have a lack of boundaries because I want you to like me because I need validation from other people instead of getting it internally I wasn't I wasn't protected so I feel like I did a lot to make adults happy around me that were supposed to be there to protect me but really didn't make me feel comfortable as a child"

You've Been BLOCKING Your BLESSINGS! | Tabitha Brown

Tia Mowry: You’re Unhappy and You Don’t Know it - Learn to Leave the Comfort of Being Unhappy

✨Here's my Money & Positivity Playlist (to help you see the bright side:)🌤️

About the Author: Proud milso & toddler mom. Lover of art, creative writing & blogging 🎨 Believing in the power of efficiency & innovation 🌟 Passionate about helping small businesses thrive 🚀 Avid traveler & coffee enthusiast ☕️✈️

I love meeting new people and hearing their stories. Whether you're a fellow mom, a small business owner, or just someone looking for a bit of inspiration, let's connect and support each other on this incredible journey.

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[irene2025]

Always remind yourself 🌹

[theblackfemininesociety]

Mastering Time Management: A Love Letter to Our Besties 💝

Hey there, beautiful souls of the BFS! 💋

As your accountability partner, it’s important we express how important it is to master one game-changing skill: time management. As we juggle our 9-5s, motherhood, college assignments, and entrepreneurial dreams, managing our time effectively can feel like an uphill battle. But fear not, because we are going to show you how mastering these skills can help us avoid burnout and lead us to a more balanced, fulfilling life.

📝 The Power of a Planner

First things first: if you haven’t already, it’s time to invest in a cute physical planner! There’s something magical about putting pen to paper and mapping out your days. A planner not only helps you organize your tasks but also serves as a motivational tool. When you have a beautiful planner in your hands, it becomes easier to look forward to planning your week, setting goals, and checking things off your list.

Here are our top picks for planners that will inspire you to stay on track:

The Bookd store: Their planners are not just functional but also aesthetically pleasing, making planning a delightful experience.

Visit The Bookd store: HERE

Girls with Goals and Bankrolls: This planner empowers you to set your goals and achieve them, all while keeping your style in check.

Visit Girls with Goals ans Bankrolls: HERE

By writing down your tasks, you’re not just keeping track; you’re taking control of your life, one day at a time.

💤 Sleep is Your Superpower

Next up, let’s talk about the importance of sleep. We live in a society that often glorifies busyness, leading us to believe that sacrificing sleep is a badge of honor. But let’s get real: prioritizing sleep is crucial for our mental and physical health. Going to bed early allows your body to recharge, enhances your focus, and improves your mood.

When you wake up feeling refreshed, you’re more productive, creative, and ready to tackle whatever life throws your way. Plus, a good night’s sleep can help you approach challenges with a clear mind, reducing the chances of feeling overwhelmed.

😵‍💫 Avoiding Burnout

Now, let’s connect the dots: mastering time management helps us avoid burnout. When we learn to manage our time effectively, we create space for self-care, relaxation, and time with our loved ones. This is especially important for our 9-5 warriors, multitasking mothers, ambitious college students, and fierce entrepreneurs.

By prioritizing tasks, setting boundaries, and scheduling breaks, you’ll find that you can accomplish more without feeling drained. This balanced approach will not only improve your productivity but also allow you to enjoy the journey. After all, life is meant to be lived, not just endured!

Ladies, let’s commit to mastering time management together. Grab that planner, prioritize your sleep, and watch how these small changes can lead to significant transformations in your life.

💌Note: you are worthy of balance, joy, and fulfillment. By taking charge of your time, you’re not just avoiding burnout; you’re creating a life that reflects your dreams and values.

We have had an open discussion about avoiding burnout; view that post here

So, who’s ready to conquer their days with intention?

✨ HOW TO STAY ON TRACK?

Join our “Ladies Room” group chat: HERE !

Follow us on: Instagram • TikTok • Facebook

[astrolovecosmos]

Demeter: Bond Between Mother and Child

The asteroid Demeter (1108) has a focus on the protectiveness and intense emotions and instincts associated with motherhood. May have slight a focus on mother-daughter relationships, but this can still be looked at through the lens of any parent-child relationship. It can embody what you are willing to do for your child.

Demeter in Aries: A fiercely protective and assertive mother figure, embodying a warrior-like instinct when it comes to safeguarding and providing for children. Has a proactive nurturing, where the mothering/parenting role is driven by action, independence, and a readiness to fight for loved ones. Shows love through bold, hands-on care, prioritizing children's needs with strong leadership. Can be impatient and impulsive with children, their anger being the main tool they use to protect and guide which has its power and problems.

Demeter in Taurus: Likely patient, consistent, and stable in their nurturing instincts. Their mothering/parenting instinct can also be very strong and come naturally. This placement emphasizes the importance of providing material security, comfort, and a nurturing home environment. They can be possessive and determined in how they protect and sacrifice for their children. Demeter is associated with Earth and it is debated whether she is connected to Taurus or Virgo. Causing a famine and disaster to get her child back.

Demeter in Gemini: Is engaging, communicative, and playful in their bond with their child. They foster mental growth, encouraging learning, conversation, and versatility in their children. May allow their children plenty of freedom and may not seem traditionally protective. However they will use their intellect, flexibility, and swiftness to protect their children. May struggle with inconsistency or spreading themselves too thin in efforts to provide. Always open to a good or new idea from those they trust or their own children.

Demeter in Cancer: Has deep, powerful mothering/parenting instincts. They focus on creating a safe, loving, and comforting home. Demeter in Cancer is highly sensitive to the emotional needs of their children, offering unconditional care, empathy, and close emotional bonding. They can be overprotective with a passion and intensity that rivals Demeter herself. Can be clingy and won't hesitate to use manipulation if they think it is for the best.

Demeter in Leo: Expresses a nurturing style that is proud, generous, and infused with warmth and creativity. Instinct is focused on instilling confidence, individuality, and a sense of personal pride in their children. Provides through attention, affection, and encouraging self-expression, often taking on a leadership role in their family and shining as a central figure in their lives. I have read this placement as "taking their parenting duties or protection too far", but can you really take things "too far" or "too extreme" for your children? Maybe their overbearing side can manifest negatively. May seek validation from their family or outsiders for being a parent.

Demeter in Virgo: Focuses greatly on nurturing the health and minds of their children. Will go to great lengths to provide. Shows mothering/parenting instincts through acts of service, offering practical solutions and care, and by being thoughtful. Strives for the best for their family. Can be critical and negative at times to their kids. In the myth with Persephone it describes Demeter's great worry and frantic destruction searching for her daughter, on par with Virgo's famous engulfing worry. Even a Virgo mother will sacrifice their devotion and duties for their children.

Demeter in Libra: Teaches their children cooperation and fairness. Nurtures by encouraging diplomacy, emotional balance, and strong social connections, often prioritizing children's social wellbeing and sense of justice. Provides through emotional support and creating a sense of unity, though they may sometimes struggle with indecision or placing too much emphasis on maintaining harmony at the expense of addressing deeper emotional needs.

Demeter in Scorpio: Will be intensely protective but also loving. Has a mothering/parenting instinct marked by loyalty and a powerful drive to shield loved ones from harm, both emotionally and physically. Demeter in Scorpio provides through profound emotional connection, often diving deep into their children's inner worlds to understand and guide them through life's challenges. Nurtures with unwavering devotion, but may struggle with possessiveness or control, as their protective instincts can sometimes verge on being overwhelming or secretive in their efforts to safeguard family.

Demeter in Sagittarius: This mother or parent nurtures their children's independence, curiosity, and maybe passion. They may be most protective over the information and beliefs their children are exposed to. Their instincts may feel ancient, natural, and impulsive. When it comes to protecting their family they take the approach of empowering their children. Teaching them to be strong and encourages developing resilience via experience. They can at times have a temper, be highly hands-off, or lack emotional closeness or reassurance.

Demeter in Capricorn: Is focused on security, providing, and boundaries. This placement emphasizes care through structure, practical support, and ensuring their family has the resources and stability they need to survive and succeed. Their nurturing comes through actions rather than words, offering a reliable, steady presence, though they may sometimes struggle with being emotionally cold or overly stern.

Demeter in Aquarius: Will make an effort to appreciate, recognize, and/or truly get to know their child on an individual level. May have some sort of unconventional bond with their children. Maybe they act more as a friend or advisor or maybe they give them advice that isn't common or raise them in a way not inline with their society. Demeter in Aquarius protects by teaching loved ones to be self-focused and adaptable in the face of societal changes. They often support their children in pursuing their ideals, causes, passions, or callings. They can be emotionally detached, unaffectionate, or hard to understand.

Demeter in Pisces: Highlights a mothering/parenting instinct rooted in emotional connection, spiritual care, and a strong sense of empathy for their family's feelings and needs. Demeter in Pisces protects by creating a safe, loving, and emotionally supportive environment, often acting as a healer or emotional anchor for loved ones. May sometimes struggle with boundaries or become overwhelmed by family's emotional needs, as their instinct to care can lead to self-sacrifice or overextension.

[tarotbydelilah444]

✨🤰Details Of Your Future Pregnancy + Baby

hi guys, I’m back with another pac reading. This pac reading will be about your future baby + details about your future pregnancy. This reading is for entertainment purposes. I hope that you enjoy the reading and continue to keep following and sharing my posts, if you enjoy the content. Sending you love and light 🤍✨ - Delilah pile 1 | 🤎

Your pregnancy might be unexpected, so you were not expecting nor planning to have a baby when you find out. You could have been in denial or doubted that you were pregnant. You will definitely be shocked when you find out and try to hid this information from your person. For some, you could have strategically planned for this pregnancy without your partner knowing ( it may not have been in a malicious way), maybe you wanted a baby but your partner may not have been ready for one at the time.

Your partner will likely not be happy, but they won’t be mad about it either when they find out or when you tell them. They will likely confront you and you two will talk it out and kiss and make up in the end.

Your family will have very mixed feelings about the news of your pregnancy, but they will happy about the news for the most part. They will see this pregnancy as a blessing no matter the circumstances. They may see this baby/pregnancy as a miracle that will bring healing and reunite the family and bring balance into everyone’s life. Maybe you could have had issues with your family in the past, but this baby will put an end to any animosity/ issues within the family.

You will be glowing during your pregnancy. Motherhood will definitely look good on you and your baby will be healthy and growing. Everything will go well during your pregnancy journey. You may get spoiled a lot by others and your partner. You will be very relaxed and well taken care of. People will buy you gifts for the baby and you will start buying gifts and necessities for your baby before their birth. You will also be eating healthy and prioritizing you health to ensure a healthy pregnancy. Overall your pregnancy will be very peaceful and you will enjoy every moment and milestone during your pregnancy.

Your baby might be a girl. You and your partner might think it’s a boy, or you or your partner wanted a boy. Either way, you and your partner only care if the baby is healthy and whole. You could possibly have twins, so a boy and girl. Your baby/ies will be gifted, she/he/they will be able to hear and communicate with higher realms or spiritual beings. Your baby will be very aware and alert, they could also start talking or learning at a faster rate than most babies/toddlers. They will be very talkative as they age and self expression will be very important to this child. Your baby will be very intelligent as they mature. They will likely make good grades in school and they will like to learn a lot. They will be very loving, kind, caring, sensitive, independent, studious, curious, and dependable as they get older. Your baby will likely cry a lot, so you and your partner will not get much sleep for a while, but it will bring you and your partner much closer as you take in the joy of raising your child/children together. Your baby/babies could be a Gemini, Taurus, Capricorn, or Sagittarius.

channeled messages | straight textured hair, healing/self-love, healing family issues, surprised gender, spoiled-rotten, throat chakra, divine masculine, divine feminine, dark brown/black hair, brown eyes, black, or dark green eyes, angel baby, restless nights, blessed with beauty & grace, anxiety, and nightmares

pile 2 | 🧸

Your pregnancy will be exciting news that you have been waiting for, so a lot of you wanted to have a baby badly and you will be pretty excited and ready to share the news with your partner and others. You may announce your pregnancy to your partner in a creative way or in form of a present. You and your partner may make love after the news. You could have intuitively known that your were pregnant.

Your partner will be very happy about the news. They will literally get emotional once you tell them the news. This will only increase their love for you and they literally smother you with all forms of affection. They will be very supportive to you during the pregnancy.

Your family will be also happy and excited about the news. Someone may have already knew that you were pregnant, maybe they saw it in a dream or they could sensed it in general. Lots of calls and messages from your family and your person’s family to congratulate you and your partner. It will be a  welcoming and emotional experience for everyone.

You and your partner may move into a bigger home or will renovate your home to support your growing family. Your pregnancy will go very well and might go by very fast. You will feel very supported and loved through your pregnancy journey. Your family and friends might even plan you a baby shower and it will be quite a celebration. You will feel very stable, secured, and loved during your pregnancy. I also feel like you will be grateful for everything that you’ve been blessed with. You will likely like to be home a lot during your pregnancy with your partner preparing for your new arrival. You might have headaches or have a hard time sleeping while you are pregnant, so take it slow and try not to stress. You might have more dreams relating to your baby during your pregnancy.

Your baby may be a boy, but if you have a girl, she will likely have fire placements or masculine qualities, in regards to their personality. You and your partner are in it for a wild child. Your child will be a handful and likely a trouble maker. Your child will be very ferocious, brave, energetic, bratty, playful, and a ball of energy that refuses to be tamed. They may throw temper tantrums when they get upset or when you don’t give them what they want. This baby will like to explore and always looking for the next adventure or something to get into, so make sure to put them in lots of sports and have activities for them to channel their fiery energy. Your baby will love sports and is very competitive in anything he/she gets into and it may get them in some trouble sometimes as they mature. They will be very noisy or like to make a lot of noise/ or they love music. They will be very intelligent and intuitive, so you won’t be able to fool them or lie to them. They will like to be free and independent, so give them enough space to explore and learn new things on their own. They also have good emotional intelligence and they could even be an empath as they mature. Your baby could be a Aries, Leo, Sagittarius, Cancer, Pisces, Scorpio, or Aquarius

channeled messages | wears glasses, new house/apartment, angel numbers, Fire and Water, phone calls/messages, divine masculine, bossy, temperamental, ball of energy, solitude, ambivert, free-thinker, innovative, rebellious, stubborn, music lover, protective, momma-bear, red, brown, or blond hair, muscular/lean built, tall, proposal, gift from the universe, and planning mode 

pile 3 | 🤍

[TW] For some, I don’t feel like you will be happy about finding out about your pregnancy. You may wish to terminate the pregnancy, maybe due to financial reasonings or life circumstances may be too difficult and stressful for you to handle. You will likely go back and forth on whether you want to continue or terminate your pregnancy. For others, you could have had a miscarriage(s) in the past and this made you believe that you would never be able to get pregnant or sustain a full term pregnancy, and as a result, you could have given up hope, until the universe blessed you with this new miracle. Some of you could’ve had health issues that prevented you from getting pregnant, but by you changing your lifestyle and trusting in the divine, you will be able to have your miracle baby. You may find out that you are pregnant during a new moon.

You and your person may be separated or you could be separated by distance when they find out that you are expecting. This person will be extremely happy and excited about the news of your pregnancy. If this was a breakup/separation, your person will want to fix and heal the relationship to provide a loving and supportive environment for the child. If you two are separated by distance, you and this person will be reunited after a period of separation. They might travel back home right away to celebrate the news with you after a period of strife and struggles. 

Your family will also be happy about the news. They feel like you will be an amazing mother. They will be very supportive of you during your pregnancy. This may be a maternal figure that will be most excited about the news. So be prepared for lots of tears of joy. Your family will also want you and your person to reconcile to provide your child with a strong family unit.

You will be very protective of your baby during your pregnancy. You will be very conscious of everything that goes on around you. You will be very conscious of your health, making sure that you are healthy to sustain your pregnancy. You will be protecting your peace & well-being, as well as the well-being of your unborn child. You will be so in love with your child and you will do anything and everything to keep them protected and always surrounded in/by love. Your child will be very active, so they will move around a lot during your pregnancy. You will try your best to ensure that your pregnancy journey goes smoothly and peacefully.

Your baby will be so beautiful/handsome. They will also be very lucky and highly blessed by the universe, but they may still go through some ups and downs in life, but they will always manage to come back more resilient and wise every time. Your child will be very powerful and they may have strong psychic & intuitive abilities that were bestowed to them by the universe. They were meant to come into this life to heal generational trauma or karmic debts in this lifetime. They are meant to heal themselves & the collective in some way, so they could be natural-born healers. They will be highly protected and guided by the universe. They will be very creative and imaginative, so they will daydream a lot or always seem like they have their head in the clouds. Your child will love to dress up or play pretend/ they may even have an imaginary friend that they interact with and play with when they are lonely or bored. Your child may be misunderstood by others because they may feel like they’re different from their peers, so they will spend most their time building and creating their own fantasy to live in and explore because they feel so disconnected from the physical world. Your child will likely be shy and quiet for the most part. They are very sensitive to other people’s energy and they will need time alone throughout their life to recharge their energy. As your child matures, they will be very successful and confident in themselves. They will have the power to change and transform their own life and the lives of others. Your baby might be a Sagittarius, Scorpio, Taurus, Pisces, or have 12th house placements in their chart.

channeled messages | 444, 777, 666, Mexico, scholarships, struggles, medicine woman/man, financially secured, emotional unavailability, fashionista, 12th house, big decisions third eye, solar plexus, November, rewards and gifts from the universe, likes to sleep, rainbow baby, wanderer, new moon, and astral travel.

[storiesbyjes2g]

3.201 Miracles

Once again, I took advantage of the dry weather, daring Mother Nature to trick me again. I grabbed the toolbox and got back to work on the treehouse. I wish I could tell you I made good, uninterrupted progress. It was Rosie this time who pulled me away. She hovered nearby the entire time, so I stopped and gave her what she wanted. She's only clingy like that for two reasons, and both of them require my undivided attention. We went for a long jog. When we returned, the house was dark, and my girls were fast asleep. The night was still young, and I wasn't ready to call it quite yet, so I had a personal care night. I'm ashamed to admit when I last did yoga, and my muscles were a lot tighter because of it. I really need to figure out how to balance taking care of myself and my life.

In the morning, I woke up to a big ruckus on the side of my house. It sounded like a loud motor, so I got up to see what was going on. To my surprise, my sister caused the racket, and she was weeding the money tree! I can't lie; I felt myself tearing up. Alessia is one of the most self-centered sims I know. There's been almost nothing she's done or said that didn't benefit her. I mean, the woman skipped my engagement dinner because she didn't feel like going, and she was my sim of honor. But there she was, in my side yard, caring for my tree. Whether it's the kids softening her, or she's finally maturing, I'm so grateful to see her considering others' needs.

"Hey, sis. What are you doing out here?"

"Oh! Did I wake you?"

"Yeah, but it's cool, I guess."

"Sorry. I never saw a tree like this, so I came to get a closer look. When I saw the weeds, I figured I may as well. What is this, anyway?"

"I appreciate you doing that. This is my wedding gift from Dub. It's a money tree."

She gasped.

"They're real?!"

"Right? I didn't think they were either."

"Wow. He's some friend."

"Yeah. He's the best."

I rarely have opportunities to be up close and personal with my sister. Her eyes look tired, and I realized I don't actually know what's going on in her life.

"How are you doing, Less? Like, really."

She shrugged.

"I'm alright, I guess."

"Really, Less?"

She shrugged lackadaisically again. Some things about her will never change.

"There's not much to tell. I have my kids and boring job so they don't eat me."

I laughed so loud. Good thing we don't have neighbors right next to us.

"What about Jace?" I asked. "You heard from him?"

"Nope."

"Damn. I was really hoping he'd step up."

"He'd have to be a man to do that."

"HA! Okay, you got me there."

I had another question I was afraid to ask. The last time I asked it, I got WAY more than I bargained for. But I really wanted an answer. I promised Mama I would look after her, and I can't quite do that if I don't know what I'm dealing with.

"So...are you seeing anyone?"

"When the hell would I have time for that?"

"Touché. You should make time, though. I don't want you to feel like you're trapped in the house with the kids all the time. That's why we moved here, remember?"

"Yeah. I know. The truth is, I kinda like those little gremlins. I thought I'd hate motherhood and being tied down, but..."

"Yeah. Kids have a way of melting your heart."

"They do. I'll get back out there at some point, but for now, I'm cool with just me and my three."

Has Winterfest come early? Because I've just witnessed two miracles, ha!

"I'm really glad to hear that. I always worried about how this would go for you because...you know. Happy to know you're enjoying the journey. Mama would be so proud of you..."

The latch on the gate behind us clicks. My cute little shadow walks through, looking like she's on a mission.

"Auntie Lessia, can Breanna come play?"

"Des, it's not even 8 a.m.," I said. "Give them time to get dressed and eat breakfast."

"She can spend the day with us, you know," Alessia suggested.

As much as I love my sister, she was never on my list of potential babysitters. It's not that I don't trust her or I think she won't take care of my child because I know she will; I've seen it. I've just always been painfully aware of her situation and didn't want to add to her stress. But given what she just told me, maybe we can change that.

"Are you sure? You have your hands full already."

"It's cool, Luca. What's one more child? Besides, having her over will help me. With all four of them together, everyone will have a playmate. That frees to do other things."

I never thought of it that way.

"True. Well...yeah, okay. If you're cool with it, I'm down."

"You want to help me make breakfast?" she asked Desiree.

"Okay," Desiree shouted.

"You're such a little sweetie."

"By the way," she said to me, "I'm still very upset you got the blue-eyed child. Like, what in the world??"

"I guess the Watcher loves me the best."

"Whatever! You look like a dork. What are you even wearing?? Looking like a freezer bunny threw up on you!"

[randomfoggytiger]

1998: Gillian Anderson and Her Family

Gillian Anderson is strongly protective of her 4-year-old daughter, Piper. Says Anderson’s mother, Rosemary, “Motherhood has been enormously healthy for her. She’s more secure.”

Five years ago, a 24-year-old Gillian Anderson walked onto the set of The X-Files a virtual unknown....

No longer the sidekick, Gillian (pronounced “Jillian”) Anderson has watched her popularity propel her to the top tier of her profession, financially and artistically....

At the same time, she is struggling to maintain her balance, with a non-stop workload, frenzied fans and a 4-year-old daughter. “The only thing I care about,” she says, sitting in her trailer one evening during an X-Files shoot, “is that I’m perceived as a hard worker. This is what I love to do. This is my job.”

...“She certainly has established herself as an equal partner” on The X-Files, says her mother, Rosemary, a computer specialist who lives in Grand Rapids, Mich. “When she first started, I think, she was more frightened than she tried to show. But I also think her talents meshed with the writers’, and it’s becoming more of a vehicle for her. For a while there, she used to joke that she didn’t have much to say except, ‘What do you think it is, Mulder?’ ”

...Her daughter, Piper Maru, is a fixture on the X-Files set, and on this day is being carried around piggyback by the actress. The cherubic child, with her straight bangs and tiny rain boots, has been adopted by the cast and crew and often raids the prop truck for bloodied fake hands to wave about.

Anderson shares custody with her estranged husband, former X-Files assistant art director Clyde Klotz. The actress herself admitted she was difficult to be married to — it lasted less than three years — because of her strong will and fierce ambition. There is no doubt that Anderson is focused, and single-minded. On the set, she is highly professional and self-protective. While gossips would love to play up a feud between her and Duchovny, the truth is more complex. They seem to have a symbiotic, if somewhat strained, rapport, and they retreat to separate trailers during shooting breaks....

Born in Chicago to Rosemary and Edward Anderson, Gillian accompanied the family to Puerto Rico before settling in London, where her father studied film production. Her mother says she was adventurous and welcomed “new experiences.”

“One of my very favorite stories happened when we were in London,” Rosemary Anderson recalls. “It was her first day of nursery school. Her father was taking her down the stairs and she looked back up at me, saw my face and said, ‘Don’t cry, Mom.’ She was fine. I was not.”

After nine years, the Andersons returned to America and settled in Grand Rapids.

“By the time I was 11, I had been on 40-some planes,” the actress says, lighting another cigarette. “I remember my parents taking me to parties a lot. Running around, then falling asleep. Having my pajamas on and being carried to the car. … Some of my greatest memories are of them shoving me in the back of a VW Bug and sleeping on the way home.”

Now, her mother says, having a child has changed Anderson. It’s been “enormously healthy for her. I marvel that she can juggle that insane schedule. And she’s definitely become more secure, as an actress and as a parent. I think it makes her more serene.”

Anderson confirms that. “Your life lands on a plateau of seriousness all of a sudden, and things become more weighty. Since I’ve had Piper, I’ve been a much happier person. She is the most important thing. That’s what I think of first.”

...Doing the show, which requires 16-hour days 10 months of the year, has been grueling, and Anderson says her biggest fear is “insanity.” (She was previously quoted as calling her stint in Vancouver “a death sentence,” which did not go over well with Carter.)

She takes a sip of bottled water. “I think a big fear, too, is experiencing pain that will not end. I know pain, and I also know that it passes. But I guess when I’m in that, one of my fears is that it won’t end.”

Another real fear is being adored to death. Last summer, while shooting the X-Files feature film — reportedly a $60 million project — she was stalked by paparazzi trying to snap her with Piper at a playground. “In one area,” she says, “there were so many converging on me at once that the whole shopping area got together and talked to the sheriff’s department, and they were no longer allowed in that area. It makes me furious.”

Another fear is more insidious: self-destruction, as exemplified by her faux pas at the Emmys. Or her reluctance to fully embrace her current stardom. “I have to look at how I may have been involved in creating situations in my life,” she says. “How much can I not accept good things in my life? That I have to perhaps subconsciously create something that immediately shows me I’m not …”

Her voice trails off. She seems smaller, and more fragile, than her X-Files character.

A nagging sense, after all this time and hard work, of not deserving her current success?

She exhales a stream of cigarette smoke and lets a small smile cross her face. “Ultimately,” she sighs, “it probably is.”

-February 1998

[specialagentartemis]

Ask game: Ayda Mensah

for the character ask game

First impression

She seems sweet, and nice, and responsible. A sympathetic and reasonable human to contrast against Murderbot’s 8000 personal emotional issues.

Impression now

I love her as a nuanced portrayal of a truly good person and good leader. She’s become both foil to Murderbot, and kind of a… parallel isn’t the right word, but balance, maybe.

Also I really appreciate that she is a leader and a mother and yet her leadership doesn’t need to be defined or justified in terms of her motherhood. I see that a lot with Woman Leader Characters and it’s nice that she’s able to be both independently.

Favorite moment

“I know exactly what you are.” When she faces it down and talks it down on the gunship… the confidence, the trust, the empathy, the leadership. Ahh

Idea for a story

What! Was Mensah doing! During the bulk of System Collapse! I must know!!

Unpopular opinion

I think she should have marital problems more after All Of That. I think her marriage should be kinda rough now. :’’’)

Favorite relationship

Mensah and Murderbot’s friendship is So Good. She is its Favorite Human and it will kill and die for her and she mostly just wants it to live its best and happiest life for her instead and they have to mutually blackmail each other into self-care because they both care about each other so MUCH but are kinda garbage at caring for themselves! They make each other better! Even as the owner/guardian thing kind of casts a pall over that mutual care that they are struggling to define themselves around!

Favorite headcanon

Mensah came up into politics by being the president of her graduate program’s grad student organization and was the person actually getting any god damn thing done. Turns out she was good at that!

[roobylavender]

something tangential to the enforced motherhood post i reblogged but while dc's contention with this concept is pretty horrid and distasteful in general what i find worse is the fan reaction in batman circles, specifically with regards to talia and selina. on one hand, you have the very obvious projection of a racist and xenophobic trope onto talia where she is stripped of any and all personal agency and to the point her character can never be severed of motherhood or even worse only viewed as an abusive party within the concept. fans not only project their own experiences of abuse onto her despite these projections being contrary to her own ambitions and writing prior to her character assassination; they also, in the event they don't want her to be an abusive mother, decide to relegate her to a static concept of motherhood where she has no existence outside of raising damian and where there isn't even a possibility of toying with the idea that she may not have actually acquiesced to the concept of motherhood to begin with. i'm always so surprised by how little people seem to contextualize the life talia led as lex corp ceo with her potential role as a mother. how would she be able to live that kind of isolated, purpose-driven life where she could set every personal desire aside for the sake of her duty to the world if she was expected to parent a child first? this is a rare viewpoint i've never really seen expressed but one reason i find morrison's portrayal of bruce and talia as parents to be really ironic is bc i think the roles are nearly reversed. at that point in her life and with the slew of burdens and responsibilities on her shoulders i honestly think talia (regardless of what immense affection i'm sure she would have for her own child) would be the one who had trouble acclimatizing to her role as a parent, versus bruce who made it his intent for several years to parent various children and when he found out talia was pregnant impliedly committed to shielding that child (and her) from violence and a vigilante life at all costs. it's a narrative thread i really would have loved to see explored but on a practical level would likely be impossible to do not only bc of dc's handling of asian mothers and their racist degradation due to their juxtaposition against white fathers, but also bc of dc and dc fans' constricted view of motherhood to begin with. either you're a good mother or you're a bad mother. there's no room for the in-between nuance of possibly loving your child but not knowing how to balance that responsibility bc of what you view as important responsibilities you have to others

on the other hand, you have dc fans' engagement with selina's relationships with younger orphans and sex workers in her community. this is a really interesting one to dissect in light of ship wars specifically bc while i agree that there isn't any sense in having selina act as a mother-figure to bruce's children i also don't really agree with people's justification that she's not a "motherly" character. it's once again a very striking example of the restricted perception people have of motherhood or of behaviors commonly associated with that role, bc i don't think people who say this are really criticizing her ability to be a mother at all. what they're actually criticizing is her capacity to care. there's oddly all too many people who believe selina's anarchy or more self-serving nature is antithetical to any expression of compassion. so what you end up having is a phenomenon where one group of fans is eager to see her co-parent with bruce and another group of fans is eager to see her severed of any significant connections at all bc it somehow fits her "villainous" nature. and all-in-all, from both sides, her relationships with kids like holly and arizona are completely obscured. there's no room made to discuss how selina can possess deep empathy for young people whose experiences she identifies with and that she can care for them and even take them under her wing without necessarily wanting to adopt them, but that if she wanted, maybe she would adopt them. i honestly feel like that was the direction alan grant and doug moench were going in with arizona in the early 90s had mary jo duffy not abruptly excised arizona bc, like a lot of fans, she thought having significant emotional attachments was antithetical to the catwoman persona albeit there was no actual canon to back that notion on a behavioral level. i don't think selina has to be a mother, but i also don't think it's an infliction of stereotypical gender roles on her to imagine a scenario where she might adopt a stray, esp if that scenario occurs within a context where she is still independent and forging her own way of life and liberty. if anything, taking care of holly and arizona were some of the highest points of her narrative, bc they were a looking glass through which to explore selina's capacity for love and mercy, in spite of all of the trauma and abuse that she had to suffer at the hands of others

to me, the problem with dc's contention with motherhood is not so much that it's attached to these women at all, but that the definition of motherhood used is entirely framed with a heteronormative understanding of the family unit, despite the reams of potential to explore characters like talia and selina as independent figures acting outside of that traditional hierarchy

[365momme]

Reclaiming Your Identity After Loss: Finding Yourself Again

Experiencing the loss of a loved one can feel like a seismic shift in your life. Along with the emotional turmoil that follows, many people find themselves grappling with a profound sense of identity loss. The person you were intertwined with the relationship you had, and now that connection feels severed. However, reclaiming your identity after loss is not only possible but also a vital step in…

[pseudowho]

Genuine question, how do you manage to balance work and answering questions and writing and ur home life?

-someone struggling with time management as a student

First, please remember these things.

I am likely a good amount older than you, at 31.

I'm on maternity leave at the moment...but as in a previous Ask, I'd say that full time motherhood is arguably just as busy, if not busier, than working, and I do a very busy job (Midwifery).

I am high-functioning anxious, and it makes me wildly productive.

I have been a student and a mother and a full-time team leader simultaneously since the age of 24.

I have no down-time that I don't spend writing, or occasionally reading.

I write very fast-- for example, my drabbles generally take me 30 minutes, I give them a quick skim read for accuracy, and then post.

I have an awful lot of experience as a student studying more subjects than I strictly should have (think Hermione and the Time Turner), while working at the same time (during my University course, we worked 37.5 hours a week utterly unpaid, and had to do more than the standard amount of lectures and essays/dissertations as everyone else, too).

Then I did a lot of continued professional development, on top of being a full-time Midwife. Then I started coordinating full large staff teams.

Then, I have three small children and that requires military precision to take care of them all, and love them, and play with them to a high standard, alone.

The only reason I say all this? Because fuck, since I was 11/12 years old, my life has been time management.

The downside? I'm always stressed. Like, always. I always have something else to do, and I hold myself to insanely high standards, and honestly, I'll probably die of an aneurysm aged 50.

My recommendation? Focus on your studies and self-care first, and write if and when you want to.

Honestly. Please don't ruthlessly bully yourself like I do to myself. Yes, I am time efficient (I often write while I'm bopping a baby on my hip, and intermittently one handed chopping/stirring/cooking dinner), but it's a lot of experience and very demanding.

Sorry...this might be unhelpful.

You're doing brilliantly. You need downtime for your brain to function. Your hobby (if writing is your hobby) shouldn't feel like a job.

Love,

-- Haitch xxx

[tmnae]

Girl's Night Out @ Monolyth Hookah Lounge

Balancing the demands of motherhood left her yearning for a break, and the opportunity presented itself when her sister Alysia called.

Alysia, understanding the challenges of raising a young family, suggested a much-needed girls' night out. Tiana hesitated at first, torn between leaving her little ones for an evening and the desire to enjoy a rare moment of freedom. Eventually, she agreed, knowing that her husband was more than capable of holding down the fort... As the night unfolded, Tiana found herself immersed in the lively ambiance of the Monolyth Hookah Lounge. The sisters laughed, reminisced, and even tried a few exotic hookah flavors. The evening was a delightful escape, allowing Tiana to recharge and appreciate the importance of self-care.

Hookah Lounge by @shaymoo22

[haydenigmatic]

Sorry if this has already been asked before, but you mentioned that we’ll eventually have kids with the ROs. Which ones want kids, how would they be like during the pregnancy, and what would they be like as parents?

Sorry if this too many asks lol feel free to ignore them if you want. Either way I’m really looking forward to what comes next!

wow that's a lot to answer, but that's totally fine anon, it is actually a good question it made me think it trough and let's see:

With a little long post starting with the female RO's

ODETTE

Definitely wants children, especially with MC, as for how would she be while her pregnancy, well I picture her embracing the experience with grace. She'd radiate an air of serenity, cherishing each moment of the journey. Focusing on creating a harmonious and loving environment for the child. As a parent, she would prioritize instilling values of kindness, empathy, and integrity. Her interactions with her child would be marked by warmth and understanding, encouraging them to explore their passions while providing a secure and supportive foundation (I do picture her as a great mother really).

NESRIN

She would be content with having two or three children. While she might not openly express vulnerability, her actions would reflect a deep concern for the well-being of both herself and the child. She'd meticulously plan for every detail, from health routines to the nursery's design. As a parent, Nesrin would develop a profound dedication to her child's development. She would be firm yet nurturing, providing a structured and intellectually stimulating environment. Nesrin's love would manifest through thoughtful gestures and lessons, ensuring her child is well-prepared for the complexities of the world while experiencing the warmth of a loving home.

JASIRA

She also wants a few, having to grow up in a big family herself, she definitely not want to be a baby machine as her mother. During pregnancy, Jasira's strong-willed and adventurous nature would persist, although tempered by a newfound sense of protectiveness. She might face the challenges of pregnancy with resilience, continuing to pursue her activities with careful consideration for the well-being of both herself and the baby. As a parent, Jasira would instil a spirit of independence and fearlessness in her child. While being firm and setting clear expectations, she would also encourage curiosity and self-expression. Her parenting style would involve teaching practical skills like archery and swordplay, fostering a sense of discipline, and imbuing a deep appreciation for the importance of justice and integrity. She would become a nurturing and empowering presence in her child's life.

VERENA

Once believing she did not want children, would find herself navigating this new chapter with a mix of vulnerability and determination. The experience would momentarily soften her sharp edges as she grapples with the physical and emotional changes. However, her strategic mind would soon kick in, and she'd approach motherhood with the same calculated precision she employs in politics. As a parent, she'd be firm but fair, fostering a sense of discipline and ambition in their child. Despite her initial reservations, motherhood would allow her nurturing side to emerge.

SORIN

She doesn't want too many children, but would love to become a mother. During pregnancy she would be fiercely protective and nurturing. She'd approach it with practicality, ensuring a balance between her adventurous lifestyle and the needs of the child. As a parent, Sorin would instil resilience, resourcefulness, and a love for exploration in her child. She'd go to great lengths to protect her child, using her skills and instincts to create a secure and unique upbringing. Her parenting style would emphasize self-reliance, adaptability, and an appreciation for life's diverse experiences.

DAMON

He's protective, ensuring the MC's comfort and happiness, while also showering MC with thoughtful gestures and gifts. Damon spares no expense in pampering and spoiling his child. He indulges their every want, from extravagant gifts to special treats. He would melt into a doting parent, readily bending to fulfil the child's desires. Being ready to father more children with MC, he does want a big family.

HANNIEL

During the pregnancy, Hanniel, though initially hesitant, would become a pillar of support for MC (he did not want children mostly due to social status concerns). His protective instincts kick in, and he ensures her well-being with unwavering care. Despite his initial reservations about fatherhood, he gradually embraces the idea, finding joy in anticipating the arrival of their child. As a parent, he is both loving and principled. He instils a sense of honour and justice in their child, sharing his values through bedtime stories and life lessons.

AURELIA/N

Aurelia/N does want to have a big family or as many as MC wants. Her/his protective instincts heighten. While maintaining her/his composed exterior, s/he becomes more attentive,(either for her or a fem mc) ensuring the MC's comfort and well-being. They may express their love through subtle acts of care, like preparing soothing teas or reading stories to the unborn child. In their own unique way, imparts life lessons, blending their practicality gained from her travels. their love is steadfast, expressed through a combination of gentle guidance and a commitment to being a present and supportive parent (something their father was not).

DORIA/N

Initially frustrated by the news of impending parenthood, is overwhelmed by fear rooted in past traumas (as they never thought themselves as a parent). The prospect of becoming a parent triggers memories of their own difficult childhood and the loss of their mother during childbirth. This fear, however, transforms into a silent determination as the pregnancy progresses.

As a parent, Doria/Dorian approaches the role with a unique blend of protective instincts and guarded affection. Their parenting style is influenced by a desire to break the cycle of familial strife. Their tough exterior remains intact, but their child becomes the soft spot in their heart. they teach the child to navigate the world with a guarded yet perceptive outlook.

[mysteriouslytransparentwitch]

34 years in November, finally I publish now, I opened the comment space

I start writing my post on August 8, 2023, I will be back to work soon, I hope. These 18 months have been very difficult in terms of health, my last hospitalization between February and May clearly opened my eyes to my life.

This is the first time that I am excited to celebrate my 34th birthday with dignity on November 3rd. To finally close this chapter of my life (I'm not healed yet)

I realized a lot of things:

life is short

life is worth living

money is a flute of energy

many people come to open up to the world and they are ready to welcome you in their arms too.

social life is not easy

we can really create little moments of happiness (a bouquet of flowers per month)

I really like to surround myself with artisanal products

I can continue like this, I registered on a friendly dating application and I really liked my experiences, I hope to balance my professional and social life with my return to work. The week of August 8, I have a girl meeting then I proposed a meeting at the Musée d'Orsay which remains one of my favorite museums. My goal is to open myself fully to the world.

For some time now, I've been trying to make choice prints on a plus theme in keeping with my current life.

I work on my feminine energy, because I have a masculine energy, I have always worked with this part and I was raised in this energy, my mother took care of 4 children on her own. I realized that I was really too anchored in this energy and I want to find a balance between my feminine and masculine part.

I have regained a taste for paying attention to my look, putting on make-up…. doing certain things in conscience. I realize it's more than that.

I am also aware that we are in survival mode for 90% of the world's population because societal life is very difficult.

Just tired of fighting, I want to have fun and stop sacrificing everything.

about my love life, I try to be optimistic and stay open but I am aware that time also passes. I hope to find the person, however I am open to the idea of starting my own family because yes before I thought it was selfish to do that because the child deserves better especially since I lived without a father. But motherhood is still there even if some aspects scare me. I'm open to all options. I leave myself until the age of 36, I remain open to the proposals of life.

on my professional life, I leave myself until the end of May (if the company does not fire me before lol) to put my finances in order, I continue to work on my self-employed project which is progressing well, I am happy

[petrungaroplasticsurgery]

What Are the Benefits of a Mommy Makeover in Chicago?

Becoming a mother is a life-changing experience, but the physical toll it takes on the body can leave many women yearning to feel confident and vibrant again. A Mommy Makeover in Chicago is the ultimate solution to reclaim your pre-pregnancy body and boost your self-esteem. This transformative procedure offers a combination of surgeries tailored to meet the unique needs of mothers. Below, we delve into the significant benefits of this life-enhancing treatment.

What Is a Mommy Makeover?

A Mommy Makeover is a personalized cosmetic surgery plan that typically includes procedures such as a tummy tuck, breast augmentation or lift, liposuction, and sometimes additional enhancements like vaginal rejuvenation. These procedures aim to address the physical changes caused by pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.

Enhanced Physical Appearance

One of the most noticeable benefits of a Mommy Makeover is the restoration of your physical appearance. Pregnancy often leads to stretched abdominal muscles, sagging breasts, and stubborn fat deposits that don't respond to diet or exercise. Here’s how a Mommy Makeover can rejuvenate your body:

Tummy Tuck: Removes excess skin, tightens abdominal muscles, and gives you a flatter, firmer stomach.

Breast Enhancement: Corrects sagging breasts, restores volume, and improves symmetry, helping you regain youthful contours.

Liposuction: Eliminates stubborn fat from areas like the abdomen, thighs, and flanks for a more sculpted look.

Boosted Self-Confidence

Motherhood brings immense joy, but it can also affect your confidence when you’re not comfortable in your own skin. A Mommy Makeover helps women feel beautiful and confident by addressing insecurities related to their post-pregnancy bodies. Feeling good about your appearance can enhance every aspect of your life, from social interactions to professional opportunities.

Customized Solutions for Every Woman

Every mother’s body changes differently during pregnancy. The beauty of a Mommy Makeover lies in its customizability. Board-certified plastic surgeons in Chicago work closely with patients to design a treatment plan tailored to their specific goals. Whether you want to focus on your abdomen, breasts, or overall body contour, a Mommy Makeover is designed to meet your needs.

Improved Physical Comfort

Beyond aesthetics, a Mommy Makeover can significantly improve physical comfort. For instance:

Tummy Tuck: Repairs diastasis recti (separated abdominal muscles), reducing back pain and improving posture.

Breast Reduction (if included): Alleviates discomfort from overly large breasts, such as neck and shoulder pain.

Fat Removal: Liposuction reduces excess weight in targeted areas, making physical activity easier and more enjoyable.

Long-Lasting Results

With proper care and a healthy lifestyle, the results of a Mommy Makeover can last for many years. Most women find that the procedure motivates them to maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise routine, ensuring long-term satisfaction with their new look.

Advanced Techniques and Expertise in Chicago

Chicago is home to some of the country’s most skilled plastic surgeons, offering state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge techniques. Surgeons in this city prioritize patient safety and satisfaction, ensuring you receive the best care possible. Many clinics also provide financing options, making this life-changing procedure accessible to more women.

Quick Recovery and Comprehensive Support

While a Mommy Makeover is a surgical procedure that requires recovery time, advancements in techniques have made the process more efficient. Many patients can resume light activities within two weeks and fully recover in a few months. Surgeons in Chicago provide comprehensive post-operative care, ensuring you have all the support you need during your recovery.

Emotional Well-Being and Empowerment

A Mommy Makeover does more than improve your appearance—it’s an investment in your emotional well-being. Many women report feeling empowered and more aligned with their personal and professional goals after undergoing the procedure. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about feeling like your best self again.

Is a Mommy Makeover Right for You?

If you’re considering a Mommy Makeover, it’s essential to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon. Ideal candidates are women who:

Are in good overall health.

Have completed their family (no plans for future pregnancies).

Are close to their ideal body weight.

Have realistic expectations about the outcomes.

Why Choose Chicago for Your Mommy Makeover?

Chicago stands out as a top destination for Mommy Makeovers due to its exceptional medical community and world-class facilities. The city offers access to highly experienced surgeons who are well-versed in the latest cosmetic surgery techniques. Additionally, Chicago provides a vibrant, supportive environment for recovery, with plenty of spas, wellness centers, and recreational activities to help you feel rejuvenated.

A Mommy Makeover is not just about restoring your body—it’s about rediscovering your confidence and joy. Whether you’re addressing physical discomfort, emotional well-being, or aesthetic concerns, this transformative procedure is the ultimate way to celebrate your journey into motherhood while reclaiming your sense of self.