bible, children, inspiration, mom, Mommy Motivation, motivation, parenting, positive affirmations, positive parenting, prayer, single dad, single mom, spiritual

Noteworthy Nugget #09 – Give Thanks.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.  For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. (Psalms 100: 4-5)

In the most difficult times it can be challenging to give thanks. As single parents we give, give and give until we’re exhausted. During this process we ask for nothing in return. We only want what’s best for our children. Single parents delay their dreams so their children can have a solid education; good health and strength; and develop nurturing relationships.

Let us be thankful for the opportunity to educate our children. Getting an education is a right. It lays the foundation for many life lessons. It shapes how children think, process, and dissect information. Subsequently, during this process, children find their interests which influence their college major selection.

As a single parent these things are important as they are a sign we’ve raised an independent thinker who can make sound and responsible decisions. A child who has a solid education has all tools which can lead to better opportunities.

Secondly, let us be thankful for the health and strength of our children. It is through our child’s endurance and potential that we gain strength to press on. The constant need to make lemonade out of lemons, even with so few lemons, is challenging. Nevertheless, we make sure our children get regular check ups, eat well-balanced meals, exercise, take vitamins, and drink plenty of water.

Lastly, it is our responsibility to lay the foundation for our children to know the difference between a good friendship and a bad one. It is our responsibility to introduce our children to the mentors and pillars of the community who lead by example. I am thankful for those individuals who have strong morals who value people and the world around them.

On this day of Thanksgiving, it is these things that I am thankful for – the opportunity for my child to have a good education, the blessing of good health and strength; and the gift of people and positive influences.

A Lavender Place,
Thanksgiving 2020

bible, children, inspiration, mom, motivation, parenting, positive affirmations, positive parenting, prayer, single dad, single mom, spiritual

A Summer Moment

This is the day which the Lord hath made, we will rejoice and be glad in it.  (Psalms 118:24)

The morning is quiet, peaceful and serene.

He hears the birds chirp with freshness and stillness.

The children are off to summer camp to enjoy a fun fulfilled day.

He knows the kids are safe with sensational camp counselors.

He sips a cup of coffee and savors the white chocolate cream flavor.

He wonders how he ended up as a single parent raising two young boys.

Without the mother it has been a daily struggle.

To navigate and hold multiple roles has been tiresome and trying.

The sacrifice and delay of his own happiness brings tears of loneliness.

A grown man brought down by the world around him.

The exhaustion sets in, but he never gives up.

He pauses and absorbs in meditation and nostalgia.

He embraces and appreciates as the fond memories replay in his mind.

Thankful for what God has placed on his heart.


How grateful he is to reminisce on this summer moment.

-A Lavender Place

bible, children, inspiration, mom, Mommy Madness, Mommy Motivation, motivation, parenting, positive affirmations, positive parenting, prayer, single dad, single mom, spiritual

Noteworthy Nugget #06 – Patience

Patience is not simply the ability to wait – it’s how we behave while we’re waiting. – Joyce Meyer

As single parents, it is very easy to use single parenthood as an excuse for our shortcomings. However, giving excuses is not an option as we have little people who rely on us.

In the midst of a storm, stand strong, plant your feet, focus on God’s word and he will order and guide your steps.

He knows patience can position you for miracles and waiting on God can be a difficult thing to do.

Don’t breakdown when you’re about to have a break through. Continuously display patience gracefully, purposefully, and obediently. Then, celebrate when he allows you to elevate.

– A Lavender Place