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I have never mentioned the name Santa Claus in my house. My older daughter is four years old and she knows nothing of a jolly man, with a big belly coming down the chimney to put her Christmas gifts under the tree. My girls have never taken a picture at a mall sitting on Santa’s lap, and I don’t ever plan on doing it. I know what you’re thinking. My children will be missing out on their childhood and having something to believe in. I just believe Christmas can be magical without the concept or belief in Santa Claus. It is just as special without me getting them to believe that receiving a gift is dependent on how ‘good’ they are throughout the year and a fictional character will be the one delivering it. Here is the thing. I grew up on an island where the idea of Santa Claus coming down a chimney, couldn’t remotely be part of my reality, because we had no chimneys. It’s not even real for so many kids in the United States or any developed country, because even right here in my tiny Brooklyn apartment, there is no chimney. I didn’t enjoy Christmas for many years after I moved to the United States, because it didn’t feel as special as it did when I was a child. I remembered my grandmother changing the curtains and giving the house a deep in preparation for Christmas day. Decorations were light with just lights to signify the holidays. What I do remember on Christmas Day is that I woke up to the smell of freshly baked bread and meats stewing in the pot. Later came the family sized portions of mac and cheese, rice and beans and an assortment of foods for dinner and dessert that the adults in the family helped prepare. I don’t recall gifts, but I remember waking up to this amazing day just knowing it was special. The only thing that made it special before my children, was getting cozy on my couch watching as many Christmas movies on the Hallmark Channel and Lifetime. I also watch Christmas classics like Miracle on 34th Street and the hilarious Bad Santa. Since having my first daughter, I’ve gotten a tree, decorated the house, bought gifts and made time to watch Christmas movies that both my girls have come to love. Our alternative Christmas traditions focus more on giving this year and moving forward, because this is really what the holidays and Christmas are about. It’s about family, community and giving. Even though this should already be happening throughout the year, the Christmas season reminds us to not forget. This is the kind of Christmas I want to pass on to my daughters. Whether you choose to incorporate Santa into your holidays or no Santa at all, let’s focus on the intended meaning of Christmas.

Happy Holidays from my family to yours. I know that the holidays are a time for family, sharing and giving. A time to reflect on what has passed in anticipation of what is to come. I want us to remember those who are not in a place to celebrate in a way that evokes all these feelings. I want us to remember those who are sick, those who have been abandoned by family, or have had to make the choice of severing ties with toxic family members. Let’s remember those reliving trauma, or have lost loved ones who they once made memories with. Remember people living in poverty and experiencing food shortage. Remember the houseless. Pray for them and hopefully take action to help in any way you can. Love on the little ones who are experiencing their first Christmas, and the ones who are fighting for their lives. May this be a great day for those who couldn’t buy gifts for anyone, but gave their time and love to everyone around them, because that is what counts the most. Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa, Happy Hanukkah and Happy festivities to those who simply show up for the food.

My home is my sanctuary. For this reason, I like to maintain order in my space at home. Order gives me clarity, and with that comes a great degree of peacefulness and calm. By clearing up my physical space, I clear up my mental space. It helps me be more productive. I believe you can tell a lot about a person by the way they keep their hidden spaces aka, their closets, medicine cabinets et cetera. Ideally, I believe we all want to live in a clean and organized space, but there arises one of two problems. “It feels like there just isn’t enough time” The first problem is that you may be so busy working and trying to find some semblance of joy, it feels like there just isn’t enough time in day. Some days I get home from a long day and I just want to fall face first into my bed. After a long day at work, it can be hard to get the energy to do even some of the smallest tasks. Secondly, you may just not know how to organize and maintain order in your life. You may have just never been taught. In the age where it seems like just about every task can be outsourced, people who never learned to tidy up their spaces have even more an incentive not to learn. I am not here to recommend how you can organize your space in twenty four hours or a week, but rather how you can make small changes to how you currently do things and develop positive life-long habits. 1. Write everything down And I do mean everything. Visualization is the key, but also, you can’t depend on your memory to tell you what needs to be accomplished daily, so get a planner, a notebook, or calendar and write in what you would like to accomplish everyday. Saves you time and you accomplish more. I also enjoy going back to what tasks or goals I accomplished. 2. Snowball your cleaning Just like you would tackle debt by working your way from the smallest to the largest, the same can be applied here. I separate my task into two categories: daily household chores and weekly ones. Not only have you allowed yourself a slow build, you develop a routine. 3. Do a little everyday So everyday, you can commit to doing or maintaining the small tasks, and even reducing large ones to smaller manageable tasks. If you’re like me, I commit to the big ones on the weekend and do it all. To stay organized, you need to work at it consistently and continuously. 4. Delegate If you don’t live alone, get everyone else to pitch in. If you can stand balanced on your feet, you can help. If you’re a parent, get your little ones involved. Make it fun for sure. You’re not only executing tasks, but you teach them the value of teamwork and interdependence. Do it regular and you’ll have your own little helpers. You will create good habits. 5. Purge This is a very important process, because to maintain order, you need to have an “out with the old” mindset. Having too much stuff means more clutter. Keep only the things you need and a few wants, otherwise, you can trash, donate and/or sell the rest to help create that zen space. Purge at least every four to six months to reduce clutter. 6. Take stock of your accomplishments Don’t get so task driven that you can’t take a step back to see what you’ve accomplished. Seeing what you accomplished by changing your habits is an excellent motivator. Keep at it and you will develop a routine that you can maintain for a long time. It is not about the cleaning, but creating an atmosphere and a lifestyle of calm and clarity.

In my house, weekends are made for organizing, and taking care of my plants. After being given one plant by my mother, I have done quite a bit of transplanting and turned it into five. I have also added a few more of my own select plants that have grown amazingly. Growth, Renata Poleon, 2024 My mom walks in always amazed by how beautiful my plants look. I seem to have a green thumb. It really just helps calm my space and gives me something to take care of other than my sweet girls. I also enjoy having breakfast when I can near my plants. To all the houseplants that bring joy and calm everyday and the weekend. May your weekend be as bountiful as my plants. Bountiful, Renata Poleon 2024 (Top photo Tropical, Renata Poleon, 2020)

Today turned out beautifully. I woke up with the plan to simply do some organizing. The universe heard my plea and granted me a visit from mom who helped me a bit. Even though all I wanted to was sleep, I allowed my daughter to convince me to go out to play in the snow—although she didn’t have to convince me much because if there’s snow involved, I’m in. As much as I’m a planner, I leave room for spontaneity. It is really in these moments I tend to have the most fun. We were the only ones at the playground, and moved to the park. It was quiet and beautiful with fluffy snow. We were exhausted by the end of the time there. Sometimes, that’s all it takes; an exhausted parent who takes the kids out on a snowy day to make it, the perfect day. What are you up to? Photo Snow Fight, Renata Poleon, 2021

Yesterday, my daughter was practicing her anime art which she started about three weeks ago. She paused for a moment and said to me, " My brain keeps saying I need my drawing to be perfect, but I know it doesn't have to be ." That hit me like a ton of bricks, because I know I have battled with my need for perfection much of my adult life and have eliminated it from my parenting style. We talk about mistakes being good and how failing allows us to become better, but my daughter feels the need for perfection. At that moment, I thought of the many ways we seek perfection. Imperfection is where true beauty and creativity resides. Life is so often portrayed as a quest for perfection - flawless Instagram feeds, aesthetically pleasing homes, and impeccable lifestyles dominate our screens. However, in this pursuit of flawlessness, we tend to forget one essential truth: imperfection is where true beauty resides. Let's delve into the art of embracing life's messiness and discover the profound beauty that lies within imperfection. The Illusion of Perfection There is pressure to have it all together or at least look like you do, even though your world may be falling apart. That feeling is overwhelming and can even be anxiety inducing for so many. Striving to present a polished image to the world and meticulously curating our lives to fit into neat little boxes can be a major disservice to who we are struggling. So what if we challenge this status quo? What if we dare to embrace the beautiful chaos that comes with imperfection? Our lives may be a mess at times, but it is our beautiful mess that can be cherished for where it is at that moment. Finding Freedom in Imperfection Embracing imperfection is not about settling for less; it's about finding freedom in authenticity. In embracing imperfection, we release the need to constantly strive for unattainable perfection, allowing ourselves space to breathe, learn, and evolve without fear of judgment. It opens doors to creativity and innovation, as we embrace experimentation and risk-taking without the paralyzing fear of failure. It's in our vulnerabilities, our quirks, and our failures that our true essence shines through. Embracing Life's Unpredictability Life is messy, unpredictable, and beautifully imperfect. It's in the unexpected twists and turns that we find the most profound moments of growth and self-discovery. It encourages us to relinquish the illusion of total control and instead find beauty in the spontaneity and surprises that each day brings. By embracing life's messiness, we open ourselves up to a world of endless possibilities and opportunities. We are empowered to live more fully and to cherish the journey as much as the destination. The Beauty in Flaws Flaws are not weaknesses; they are what make us unique and human. Just like a piece of art is more interesting with a few imperfections, our lives become richer and more colorful when we embrace our flaws. It's okay to have bad days, to make mistakes, and to stumble along the way. In those moments, we learn, we grow, and we evolve. Flaws invite empathy and connection, encouraging us to see beyond the surface and to embrace the profound beauty that lies within the imperfect, the unique, and the real. Cultivating Resilience Through Imperfection Embracing imperfection is not always easy. It requires resilience, self-compassion, and a willingness to let go of control. But in this journey of self-acceptance, we build inner strength, courage, and a deep sense of empathy towards ourselves and others. Imperfection becomes our greatest teacher, guiding us towards a more fulfilling and authentic life. Letting Go of Perfectionism Perfectionism can drive us towards excellence but it can also lead to anxiety, self-doubt, and burnout. Uncontrolled perfectionism can be harmful to your mental health in ways that can be crippling and prevent progress. By letting go of the need to be perfect, we free ourselves from unrealistic expectations and open the door to self-love and acceptance. It liberates us from fear of judgment, empowering us to take risks and pursue our passions wholeheartedly. Imperfection is not a sign of failure; it's a celebration of our humanity. Embracing Imperfection Every Day Embracing imperfection is a daily practice, a conscious choice to be kinder to ourselves and embrace the messy, beautiful journey of life. So let's raise a toast to our flaws, our quirks, and our imperfections - for they are what make us perfectly imperfect. In conclusion, life's messiness is not something to be feared or avoided; it's a gift to be cherished and embraced. Imperfection is where the magic happens, where authenticity thrives, and where true beauty shines through. So let's take a deep breath, let go of perfection, and revel in the beauty of life's glorious imperfections. Embrace imperfection, celebrate authenticity, and live life to the fullest - for the messy, imperfect moments are often the most beautiful ones. Let's paint our lives with all the colors of imperfection and create a masterpiece that is uniquely ours. Join us in embracing imperfection and discovering the beauty in life's messiness!

I am a self professed logophile or lexiphile. As a child, I read the dictionary for fun, even while walking to school near a busy highway. Not the smartest, but true. Reading for pleasure is something I don’t get to enjoy as frequently as I would like to lately, but I take great pleasure in viewing the daily Instagram posts from three word enthusiasts. Add the visuals and sounds and I feel like I’m in heaven for a few seconds everyday. If you’re a logophile/lexiphile, here are three accounts you should be better acquainted with to bring you a daily dose of joy. 1. Word.Addiction 2. TheWordMeanings 3. Aesthetic_logophile To the new and soothing new words you will encounter daily. Enjoy and please feel free to recommend more.

This weekend, I am on a mission to rest. I have been quite busy and in a headspace that is struggling. They say, adversity makes you stronger, but sometimes all it does is bring forth deregulation. The only thing I take comfort in is knowing: You do not suffer because things are impermanent. You suffer because things are impermanent and you think they are permanent.” — Thich Nhat Hanh This weekend, I plan on reading through Malcolm Gladwell’s The Tipping Point: How Little Things can Make a Big Difference. I hope to also start watching Gilmore Girls which I hope to discuss in a later post. That show is amazing with so many things to unpack. Hopefully I will be rejuvenated come Monday and ready to conquer the world. I hope you feel the same.

Creating a harmonious shared living and play space can be a challenge. As someone who lived in 450 square feet with a family of four , I understand the full scale effect of having to manage sharing small spaces. Children are balls of chaos while many adults thrive in organization and order. It can be difficult at times for the two to coexist, but there are ways to keeping a small shared space tidy . I have found that shelving can be your best friend in this endeavor, offering versatile storage solutions that keep your space tidy and functional. Here are some tips and ideas for maximizing shelf storage in a shared living and play area. 1. Multi-Purpose Shelving Units Opt for shelving units that serve multiple purposes. A unit with both open shelves and/or closed cabinets can store toys and games while displaying books and decor items. This helps maintain a clean look while providing ample storage. 2. Use Baskets and Bins Incorporate baskets and bins into your shelving units. They are perfect for grouping similar items together and can easily be moved around. Choose bins that match your decor to keep the aesthetic cohesive. Labeling the bins can also help kids know where to put their toys away. 3. Floating Shelves for Vertical Storage Floating shelves are great for utilizing vertical space. Install them higher up for adult items like books, plants, or decorative pieces, keeping them out of reach of children. Lower shelves can be designated for kids' toys and games, making it easy for them to access and put away their belongings. 4. Rotating Toys and Books To avoid clutter, rotate the toys and books. Keep some items on display on the shelves and store the rest in bins or storage closets. Regularly rotating these items keeps the space fresh and exciting for kids without overwhelming them with too many choices. 5. Create Defined Zones Use shelving to create defined zones within your shared space. For example, one section of the shelves can be dedicated to toys and games, while another can house books and adult decor items. This helps create a sense of order and ensures everyone knows where things belong. 6. Incorporate Low Shelves for Easy Access For younger children, low shelves are essential. They provide easy access to toys and books, encouraging kids to play independently and teaching them to put things away when they're done. Make sure these shelves are sturdy and safe for little hands. 7. Regularly Declutter and Reorganize Regular maintenance is key to keeping a shared space tidy. Set aside time each month to declutter and reorganize the shelves. This helps keep the area functional and prevents it from becoming overwhelmed with unnecessary items. 8. Safety First Ensure that all shelving units are securely anchored to the wall to prevent tipping. Safety is paramount, especially in spaces where children play. Check regularly that the units remain stable and secure. By implementing these shelf storage ideas, you can create a shared living and play space that is organized, functional, and enjoyable for everyone. Shelving can significantly enhance the usability of your space, making it easier to maintain a tidy and inviting environment. This was me creating such a space in our 450 square foot apartment before moving to a larger space. Feel free to adapt these suggestions to fit your specific needs and style. Happy organizing!

There seems to be a common thread in this pandemic, and it has a lot to do with the quality of sleep that people have been getting. It seems like so many people on social media platforms have been complaining about their sleep hygiene being trash throughout the pandemic. It seems worse among mothers or primary caretakers single or married. I’m right there with you. Even worse is that I have been struggling with sleep since before the pandemic. It was 11:28 p.m yesterday when I finally got a moment to pause. It is a little more frequent than I would like to admit. Some days, bedtime goes on for longer than planned, and given that I share a 450 square foot apartment with two children, I make sure to tidy up the apartment every night, while the girls sleep. It is so easy for things to pile up, that I make sure I do a little every day, especially folding the never ending laundry situation. It makes me want to cry some days. This week started with me being in a little bit of a rut. It’s been a roller coaster of emotions, but somehow, I have always been the person who can push through even in the midst of a difficult time. I sat down on my yoga mat, crossed my legs and turned on my Goodful Meditation. I needed everything to stop. I needed my mind to pause for a few minutes so I did a 10 minute guided meditation for sleep. This is a difficult time for everyone, but it is especially hard on parents. We’re about to hit the one year mark, and I am so grateful I am making it through, nonetheless, this pandemic has truly been the ultimate test of mental health for so many people. I laid on the floor, uncurled my eyebrows, unclenched my jaw, and relaxed my shoulders in an attempt to release the stress of the days, weeks, and the past year, just so that I can make it to bed. Here are three things that are helping me achieve better sleep. 1. Stretching 2. Guided sleep meditation 3. Sleep manifestation and affirmations