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Peanut punch is a traditional and popular blended drink made in the Caribbean. Each island has its own variation of this nutritious drink that is served primarily during holiday celebrations. They all carry the key basic ingredients of peanut butter, milk, condensed milk, and cinnamon. For the adults who drink, we spike with a little rum. Whether you're drinking the alcoholic or non-alcoholic version of peanut punch, you can never go wrong with this festive, creamy Caribbean peanut drink. Here is my recipe. Caribbean Peanut Punch You’ll need: 2 cups whole milk 4 heaping spoons of peanut butter crunchy or smooth 11 oz or 3/4 can of condensed milk 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp vanilla extract *Optional: rum Put all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Chill and serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon if you would like. I can taste it already. I hope you enjoy it. (Photo of Peanut Punch in Mason Jars/ The Seasoned Skillet )

What are your plans this weekend? This weekend, we were planning to head to Brooklyn to visit my mom, but we changed plans after Mom suggested we come another day. I quickly found an activity for the girls and I to attend. It's the Taste of Korea happening in our neighborhood. The girls are super excited since this is one of the cuisines that my family enjoys. Afterward, we are going to head to the mall to visit a few stores so that the girls can get ideas. I have to say that I am somewhat heartbroken that it has been unseasonably warm this autumn. To make up for this, I will just keep watching my Lifetime Christmas Movies where I can just be jealous of watching people frolic in the snow. Uggggghhhhh! Maybe the local high school play we will be attending might help me feel like the holidays are near, because this weather is not helping at all. I had the opportunity to hear their choir group perform and they sounded like angels, so I am convinced that they will deliver on this play. We are also late putting up our Christmas tree so tonight we will be setting this up while we make pumpkin soup with dumplings, potatoes, and chicken . This is the food of my childhood and that is all I want to eat today in this cold rainy weather. I am also going to make churros to remind me of NYC. My older daughter is really excited that we're making churros after I jogged her memory on what they are. I reminded her of how much she loved eating them when she was younger. I'm just really looking forward to a cozy night at home with good food and the best people in the world. I plan on getting lots of snuggles Share your weekend plans. (Photos: Pumpkin soup Taneisha Morris/The Seasoned Skillet Blog , Churros Adrianna Adarme/A Cozy Kitchen )

I believe recipes should get to the point, the recipe , without the fluff. There is no counting of calories here. So as promised, here is the recipe for the delicious kimchi rolls that can be served as an appetizer or dinner rolls I made last week. Kimchi Cheese-Filled Rolls For the rolls: 1 parcel of premade pizza dough ¾  - 1 cups of kimchi Mozzarella cheese (any form) Goat cheese Garlic Butter 2/3 tbsps of butter 2 garlic cloves finely grated or diced ⅛-¼ tsp oregano Dash of black pepper Preheat the oven at 350°. Dice the kimchi into very small pieces and use a cheesecloth, towel or a strainer to squeeze out the liquid. Place your dough on a different chopping board with a thin layer of flour in a round shape and cut it into 6-8 triangles depending on the size that you would like ( for an appetizer 8, as a dinner roll 6 ) Form each piece into a ball while applying flour to your hands to prevent sticking, then flatten the dough with a rolling pin or widen using your hand (expert level). Add a tablespoon of kimchi in the center of the dough and top with a small amount of mozzarella cheese and goat cheese on top of the kimchi leaving about 1 inch of space from the edge of the filling and the edge of the dough. Pull the edges to the center to cover the filling. Ensure there are no gaps then roll gently in your hands to seal. Place on a liberally floured dish. Brush garlic butter on the rolls, place in the fryer or oven, and bake for 12-15 minutes or till golden brown. While the rolls bake, h eat the butter on low heat. As it slowly starts to fizzle, add the garlic. Mix and allow to become translucent or slightly brown. Add oregano and black pepper and stir a little more. Remove from the heat and brush the garlic butter onto the rolls. Enjoy.

I did not think I would be here yet, but here I am. I always planned on my daughter getting her first phone at thirteen, but that’s not the way it actually happened. I stepped into my room while her aunt stopped for a visit, and by the time I returned, my nine-year-old was pleading with me to let her have a phone. Her aunt offered her a cell phone as her present for her ninth birthday. I wasn’t happy at all, and to make it worse, Dad said it was okay, so to avoid getting into a massive conflict with my daughter, I said yes. I let her know immediately there would be strong limitations on how and when she can use it. She was fine with that. When we got the phone, I put every parental control you can think of on that device. She only spends about thirty minutes a day reaching out to her Nana, aunt, and one friend. So when she came to me yesterday that a friend added her to a group chat, I asked who was on there. It was five of her classmates from last year who I am familiar with. I instantly noted that we needed to talk about how to navigate group chats and my expectations of her behavior in the chat. Here are some of the things we talked about regarding navigating group chats safely and respectfully. Setting Ground Rules Privacy and Security We talked about the significance of privacy. Once she assured me that she knew and trusted everyone in the chat, we went ahead on identifying the names of all five people. I also highlight the need for keeping personal information private and not sharing any photos and videos of herself or our family. Respect and Etiquette The importance of treating others with respect in group chats was discussed. I reminded her to think before posting, avoid gossip, and refrain from bullying or making hurtful comments. If at any point she observes or experiences inappropriate behavior, I expect her to speak up or leave the group. Managing Digital Footprints Permanence of Online Posts I explained that anything shared in this group chat can be saved, shared, or screenshot by others. Even if a message or photo is deleted, it may still exist somewhere online. Therefore, she needs to conduct herself in the same manner she would if I was present. Appropriate Content We discussed what is deemed as appropriate content for group chats. No offensive content and/or jokes. Don’t share anything that could be considered inappropriate, illegal, or harmful. I reminded her that all it takes is one act and a complaint from a member of the group chat for things to go wrong. Handling Conflict Responding to Negative Behavior From the time my girls started playing Roblox, we talked about strategies to handle conflicts or negative behavior. This applies to group chats. We talked about trying to stay calm and seeking help from a trusted adult if needed. I encouraged her to report any bullying or harassment in the chat to myself or dad. Leaving a Group Chat Sometimes, the best option is to leave a group chat. If the conversation makes her uncomfortable or unhappy it is time to exit. Her well-being is more important than staying in a toxic environment. We have a saying in our house: “No friends are better than mean friends, because mean friends are not friends.” Ideally, this is not a bridge I wanted to cross, but we are doing our best to help our 9-year-old navigate what has become a significant part of modern social interaction. To ensure that she does so responsibly, we will continue to set limits on screen time to promote a healthy relationship with technology, maintain an open line of communication with her, and encourage her to share her thoughts and concerns. We will always be approachable when she seeks advice or help and do our best to provide the guidance she needs. This is a conversation that we will continue having as many times as she needs to be reminded. Our kids are learning and so are we. All we can do is be proactive with the best intentions in mind.

Everywhere you look, someone is encouraging you to purchase something you more than likely do not need. Overconsumption is a major issue globally, leading to cluttered homes, wasted resources, and unnecessary expenses. Adopting mindful habits can help you prevent overconsumption and create a more sustainable and organized living space. Here are ten habits to start implementing today: Use few organizing items Overconsumption has been rebranded as organized and cute. Those restocking videos are the embodiment of overconsumption making them unrealistic and costly. Learn how to organize your space without the use of expensive organizing items and help the planet in the process. Select timeless decor Purchase items that are versatile for year-round use, adapting them as needed for different seasons. While it’s tempting to decorate for every holiday, focus on acquiring a few accent pieces. This habit curbs impulse buying and ensures you only obtain things you truly need or genuinely desire. Declutter Regularly Set aside time each month to declutter your home. Go through your belongings and donate, recycle, or discard items you no longer use or need. Regular decluttering, especially in small spaces help you keep track of what you own and prevents you from accumulating unnecessary items. Thrift By choosing secondhand items, you extend the lifecycle of products. Thrift stores offer a wide variety of unique and affordable options, allowing you to find quality pieces. Being mindful of your purchases not only benefits the environment but also promotes sustainable living and thoughtful consumption habits. Repurpose and Reuse Before discarding items, think about how they can be repurposed or reused. Glass jars can be used for storage, old clothes that cannot be donated can become cleaning rags, and furniture can be refurbished. All it takes is a little creative thinking to reduces waste. Create a Shopping List Get in the habit of writing down items as soon as you notice they are finished, or when the need arises on your phone or any other writing tool. This will create an up-to-date shopping list before running your errands. Stick to the list to avoid impulse buys and unnecessary items. This simple habit can significantly reduce overconsumption and save you money. Cook at Home Frequent dining out or ordering takeout often results in food waste and excessive packaging. Cooking at home more often than not, allows you to better control portions and ingredients, reducing food waste and fostering healthier eating habits. It’s a win win. Limit Single-Use Products Reduce your reliance on single-use products like plastic bags, disposable utensils, and paper towels as much as you can. Opt for reusable alternatives such as reusable bags, metal cutlery, and cloth napkins. This habit significantly cuts down on waste. Be Mindful of Energy Use Overconsumption isn't limited to physical items. Be mindful of your energy use by turning off lights, unplugging devices when not in use, and using energy-efficient appliances. Reducing energy consumption lowers utility bills and your carbon footprint. Educate Yourself and Your Family Learn about the environmental and financial impacts of overconsumption. Share this knowledge with your family and encourage everyone to adopt mindful habits. Being informed empowers you to make better choices and foster a culture of sustainability at home. You have to be mindful and intentional about overconsumption. By adopting these ten habits, you can create a more sustainable lifestyle, reduce waste, and enjoy a clutter-free home. Small changes can make a big difference, leading to a more fulfilling and environmentally-friendly way of living.

Summer in the Capital Region means sun-soaked days, warm evenings, and a perfect opportunity to splash around in some of the area’s best public pools. Whether you’re looking for a place to cool off, let the kids burn off some energy, or simply enjoy a relaxing swim, the Capital Region has you covered. Here are three public pools that the girls and I have been enjoying and you should consider visiting this season: Central Park Pool in Schenectady Located in Central Park Schenectady, the new $10.1 million city pool which opened June 18, 2024 is becoming a local favorite. This pool features: Peerless Pool:  Ideal for younger swimmers with a maximum depth of 3 ft 6 inches. Deeper Connected Pool:  For older swimmers seeking a swim in deeper waters. Play Area:  A shallow zone for young kids with water features and splash pad. The pool is surrounded by a deck area topped with artificial grass to mark as a gathering spot for families to replace lounge chairs. The surrounding Central Park also offers additional amenities, including a playground and sports courts. Location:  500 Iroquois Way, Schenectady, NY 12305 Hours:  M-F 8am-9am (Lap Swim Only), M-F 12:30pm-6:30pm (Open Swim), S&S 12pm-6pm (Open Swim) Peerless Pool at Saratoga Spa State Park Peerless Pool, a gem in the heart of the picturesque Saratoga Spa State Park hosts a large, well-maintained pool that's perfect for families and individuals alike. Highlights include: Generous Pool Size:  A large pool with ample space for both leisurely swims and active play. Waterslide:  A thrilling feature that adds an extra layer of fun for anyone who can meet the height requirement. Kiddie Pool : A smaller pool for toddlers. Picnic Areas:  Nearby shaded areas and tables make it easy to enjoy a meal before or after swimming. The surrounding state park also offers picturesque walking paths, a playground, and natural springs for a full day of outdoor fun. Location:  19 Roosevelt Dr, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Hours:  Daily, 9 AM - 6 PM Colonie Mohawk River Park and Pool Complex Situated in the town of Colonie, this pool is a community favorite and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. Features include: Olympic Size Pool:  With options for both gentle wading and deeper dives. Kids’ Area:  A special section with water games and features designed for younger swimmers. Facilities:  Bath house, two pavilions, picnic area. Town of Colonie swimming pool also boasts walking, hiking, jogging, and picnic spots, making it a wonderful location for a combined swim and outdoor experience. Location:  71 Schermerhorn Rd, Cohoes, NY 12047 Hours:  Daily, 10:30 AM - 7 PM Final Tips for Pool Visits Bring Sunscreen:  Protect yourself from UV rays, especially during peak sun hours. Stay Hydrated:  Drink plenty of water to stay refreshed. Follow Pool Rules:  Adhere to safety guidelines and regulations for a fun and secure experience. These public pools in the Capital Region offer something for everyone, whether you’re seeking relaxation, recreation, or a day of family fun. Dive in and enjoy the summer! (Photo Central Park Pool/ Times Union , Peerless Pool Saratoga Spa State Park/Facebook , and Colonie Mohawk River Park and Pool Complex)

Motherhood was not something I ever really thought about in my late teens to late 20s. My priority  as a babysitter was to give my best self to the children I cared for. I worked with my last family for almost seven years and it was a career that became a valuable training ground for the most important role of my life: motherhood. Looking back, I realize that many of the skills and insights I gained have been instrumental in shaping my approach to parenting. Transitioning from a babysitter to a parent is a journey filled with surprises, revelations, and growth. I thought I had a solid grasp on what parenting, but becoming a mother has expanded my knowledge in unexpected ways. Here are five unexpected lessons I learned along the way that have shaped my approach to parenting and enriched my family life. Routine Isn't Just About Structure-It's about Security : As a babysitter, I understood that children thrived on routines. I followed nap schedules, mealtime norms, and playtime activities to keep things predictable and manage expectations. However, I didn't fully appreciate until I became a parent how deeply ingrained routines are in providing emotional security. Once I had my own children, I saw firsthand how routines do more than just organize the day—they offer a sense of stability that helps children feel safe and confident. Routine helps minimize anxiety and provides a framework within which children can thrive. It’s not merely about adhering to a schedule but about creating a consistent environment that makes children feel secure and valued. For instance, maintaining a regular bedtime routine has proven to be crucial for my children’s sleep patterns and overall mood, reinforcing their sense of stability. That sense of security also extends to parents as caregivers. As a nanny/babysitter, my schedule hardly ever went up to bedtime with my charges, but as a parent, I got to see how rewarding something like a consistent bedtime is to the well being of parents. It provided a consistent schedule where I can devote time for my nightly home routine and self-care after a long day of being with my children. That was an immense benefit to my overall wellness, especially as a working parent with little help . The Power of Empathy Goes Beyond Listening: The philosophy of my life is to lead with empathy . I carry this belief in everything I do, especially working in childcare. I often practiced empathy by trying to understand the children’s feelings and concerns. I knew that acknowledging their emotions was important, but it wasn’t until I became a parent that I realized how deeply empathy impacts parenting. My level of empathy seemed to have activated on a much deeper level when I became a parent. I became infinitely aware that empathy in parenting is more than just listening—it’s about actively engaging with your child’s emotional world. It means recognizing when your child is feeling overwhelmed or upset and responding with compassion and understanding. This approach fosters a strong, trusting relationship and helps children feel valued. It also teaches them to be empathetic towards others. Through daily interactions, I’ve learned that understanding and validating my children’s emotions helps them navigate their feelings and builds their emotional intelligence. Patience is More Than a Virtue-It's a Necessity: Caring for children taught me the virtue of patience and the power of resilience, especially during challenging moments. It requires a calm demeanor and the ability to adapt to unexpected situations. Reacting impulsively or with frustration only escalated the situation, while a patient approach allowed me to handle challenges more effectively. As a nanny/babysitter, I usually acted as a support system for an overworked and sometimes overwhelmed parents, so I was usually the safe space for the children. I could not anticipate the magnitude to which my children can tests my patience. Overall, I thought I was a very patient person, but when you're a parent, especially a stay at home caretaker with little support or outlets to decompress patience can start to diminish. In moments like being asked endless questions from toddlers to managing the emotional ups and downs of preteens, patience becomes more than just a helpful trait—it’s a fundamental necessity. I’ve learned that staying calm and collected in stressful moments can sometimes be very difficult, but it is crucial. Patience allows me to handle conflicts more effectively and model emotional control for my children, turning potentially volatile situations into opportunities for teaching and growth. Creative Problem-Solving is Essential Daily: In my babysitting days, I often had to come up with creative solutions to keep children entertained or resolve conflicts. I once had a kid stick two small rocks up his nose. Don't ask me how I got it out, but we managed to remove them from his nostril. I thought this was just about managing specific situations, but as a parent, I’ve discovered that creative problem-solving is an everyday necessity. I frequently joke that if my kids are alive with little to no emotional and psychological damage, I did very well that day, because tomorrow is another day. Parenthood frequently presents unique challenges, from dealing with picky eaters to managing sibling rivalry. Applying creative problem-solving skills has helped me approach these challenges with flexibility and innovation. For instance, I turn nightly prayers into a musical performance for my kids so that they now look forward to practicing gratitude routinely. Creativity allows me to adapt to my children’s evolving needs and keeps our family life dynamic and engaging. Self-Care Isn't a Luxury-It's a Requirement: As a babysitter, I was focused on caring for others while still being able to take excellent care of myself. My job did not consume my life so I always prioritized self-care. I assumed that those same standards of care would be attainable even when I became a parent. Unfortunately, I had a rude awakening trying to walk the fine line of caring for the ones I love while taking care of myself, especially when my kids were younger. I did not realize how hard it would be to maintain everything, but at some point, I came to the realization that self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential for effective parenting. Taking time for myself—whether through exercise, hobbies, or simply resting—is crucial for maintaining my well-being. When I neglect my own needs, I find it harder to be present and patient with my children. Prioritizing self-care has not only improved my mood and energy levels but also enhanced my ability to be a supportive and engaged parent. I’ve learned that by caring for myself, I’m better equipped to care for my family. The transition from babysitter to parent is filled with unexpected lessons and growth. While my babysitting experience provided a solid foundation, it was through the daily realities of parenting that I truly understood the depth of these lessons. Reflecting on these insights, I’m grateful for the experiences that have shaped my journey as a mother . Each lesson has contributed to creating a nurturing and supportive environment for my children. As I continue to learn and grow, I carry these lessons with me, knowing that they will guide me through the joys and challenges of raising a family . (Photo by Jurien Huggins /Unsplash)

When a black woman with a shaved head, high cheekbones and a red lip graces your FYP, you stop and you listen. On this particular day, it was Sunday Times Bestselling Author, journalist and podcaster Candice Brathwaite . Her lighthearted insight takes on the plight of black bodies, primarily Black women, whose style tends to not fall into the category of what is considered chic. In this particular video, Candice says: Having some thoughts. Hmmm. Is it chic or is it just on a white, thin body? Been seeing a lot of these "Things I Find Chic" trend videos. Do you know what I find chic? Gold grills, baby hairs, a colored wig slayed to perfection, crop tops, booty shorts, a shit ton of gold jewelry (I wanna hear you jingle jangle), a trim with some good waves, a good red lip, a great fake lash. Hmmm. Is it chic or not? or is it just on a black body so you wanna say it's ghetto. I don't know. but I'm just not feeling the 90s beige nail, silk scrunchie. I want more, and more and more. Candice brings up a subject that has been addressed on a multitude of levels and platforms with minimal change. This inquiry cuts to the core of a problematic history with cultural appropriation, selective approval and the double standards within the fashion and beauty industry that often marginalizes Black women and their contributions to style. Far too often, trends pioneered by Black women are often dismissed as “ghetto” until they are repackaged, and worn by individuals who do not know of or understand the cultural origins . It is only at that point this style becomes “chic.” The evidence of this is everywhere—trends that originate in Black communities being frequently co-opted by the high end fashion industry, only gaining widespread acceptance and praise once they are deemed palatable for a certain audience. This is not by coincidence, but rather by design and it is par for the course. For instance, Candice mentions things she finds chic—colored wigs, a shit ton of gold jewelry, a trim with some good waves— and let me add a nameplate, long acrylic nails, braids, cornrows, nail art and hoop earrings to name a few. These are elements of style that are deeply rooted in Black culture, yet they are often stigmatized when worn by Black women. Once these same elements are embraced by the fashion industry, they are suddenly seen as trendy and avant-garde, receiving praise from designers, and down to influencers who capitalize on trends they probably do not identify with. The problem here is not the adoption of these styles by others, but rather the erasure of the Black women who have long embraced these trends and the way their contributions are often ignored or trivialized. This is not just about fashion—it’s about the way we are made into guests looking in even when we are the originators of these trends. Next in Fashion Season 1 /Left in yellow, Farai Simoyi and next to her Kianga "Kiki" Milele I remembered watching season 1 of Netflix's Next in Fashion with competitors Kianga "Kiki" Milele and Farai Simoyi . These two accomplished women—one of whom Kiki, a pioneer in street/urban wear—were tasked with creating a streetwear-themed look. This episode was one to be seen, because the judges placed the team last on the totem pole, except for Haitian-American guest judge Kerby Jean-Raymond , founder and creative director of New York-based label Pyer Moss  and Vice President of Creative Direction at Reebok . Farai addressed the decision by countering with this: We were given street wear and we designed from our perspective and the thing that I've noticed in the fashion industry is it's mostly one voice that's heard. The high-end brands and designers are taking ideas from us very single day. And it only becomes cool when it's high end. For a lot of us, minorities, the underpriviledged, we want you to see us , but it's so hard to be seen. It's really frustrating.… Now whether or not you liked the looks they created, that is a different story, but she was correct in everything she said in front of the judges. Needless to say, her plight wasn’t heard, but if " all heroes don't wear capes was a person ," it would be Kerby. He disagreed steadfastly with the conclusion brought forth by the other judges that their design was the worst and stated they he liked their look. He also gave us insight into his journey and how difficult it was for him to break into the fashion industry. Kerby eventually walked off the stage refusing to return. There was no elimination in that episode, but this highly uncomfortable and controversial situation gave us a look into the fashion industry's issues with race, particularly with recognizing the contributions of Black women designers. Another great example is the infamous Boxer Braids controversy. The issue again wasn’t that the Kardashians wore the hairstyle—it was the repeat offense of Black culture being mined for its creative output by the fashion and beauty industry. People can wear cornrows and braids every day of the week if they would like to, but this "trend" is not new to us, nor do we need celebrities and influencers who aren't discriminated against for their hair to tell us what is hot or not. It was only in June 2019, after years of advocacy, that The CROWN Act (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair) was implemented. This law ensures protection against discrimination based on race-based hairstyles by extending statutory protection to hair texture and protective styles in the workplace and public schools. The CROWN Act is a significant step forward, but it also underscores the fact that Black women have had to fight for the right to wear their hair naturally—a right that should never have been in question. The reality is that Black style is the nexus of fashion. We are the source of many trends that have taken the world by storm and we deserve our flowers. The tide has been turning and with the rise of social media and the increasing visibility of Black creators, there is a growing awareness of these issues. Black women are reclaiming their contributions to fashion, demanding recognition, and challenging the industry to do better. As we move forward, it’s important to continue this conversation and to ensure that Black women’s voices are not only heard but celebrated. Chic is not determined by who wears it—it’s about the creativity, confidence, and culture behind the style. We've been chic all along. It is they who need to catch up. (Photos: Woman with red lip @candicebrathwaite/Instagram, a woman in cornrows @jordandunn/Instagram, a woman with pink hair How Black Women Pioneered Nail Art/Boulevard, final photo Next in Fashion Season 1 /Farai Simoyi and Kianga "Kiki" Milele)

School is around the corner and we are all gathering or putting the finishing touches on supplies, clothes and shoes. If you're a parent, one of the biggest life savers and time savers is getting hairstyles that can last at least a week for your child. Some hair types can be easily be done in the morning with just a brush of the hair and minimal product, but for children with thicker, curlier and coarser hair, this takes time. So for all the moms who have kids with this hair type, this one is for you. Here are 4 hair styles that can be done by you or a stylist to make your mornings smoother. Afro Puffs . My daughter's go to. They're the easiest and my favorite because there is so much you can do with styling them. Start as always with very well moisturized hair. Part to your desired number of puffs, comb through the full length of the hair and fasten with elastic rubber bands to keep the hair together. Use a wide tooth comb to further detangle and add shape to the hair. To maintain the look, put a silk bonnet or silk scarf on before bed and refresh with water and a moisturizing agent in the morning. Box Braids . Box braids are my absolute favorite, because there is so much versatility and a great look for every occasion. This will always be a hairstyle, not a trend . They have stood the test of time for a reason. This hairstyle tends to last a good two weeks to two and half weeks if I am pushing it with my daughters. I like a feed in version which always gives a more natural look. It also the base for a braided updo and bun. Cornrows . By the age of 13, I was already combing my own hair for school and cornrows were my go to. Much like box braids, cornrows last at least two weeks, and do especially well with the addition of small amounts of braiding hair to the natural hair. It's a great style and again has great versatility in terms of shape, size and appearance. Double Twists . Another cute hairstyle that can be adorned in whatever suits your little one You can start with rubber bands at the base or no rubber bands. Medium sized to small twist last longer. Style with clips and headbands. Always a great look. As a parent, having one less thing to worry about in the morning makes for a smoother start to the day. It's okay if you can't do the elaborate Pinterest hairstyles that you see. Once you cover your bases, getting creative becomes easier. What is your go to style for your children? (First and third photo by @braidiish/Instagram, second photo Adobe Sock, fourth photo @braidedbyher/Instagram, and last photo @mylaily3/Instagram)

Being a substitute teacher was not something I planned, but rather a role I fell into. I know this is a temporary stop in my journey, and it is one of the best decisions I have made. Prior to coming into this position, I was recovering from post concussion syndrome due to an encounter with the trunk of my car on a rainy October night. This not only caused the worst pain I ever experienced in my life, but also exacerbated the symptoms of my fibromyalgia . I was having frequent medical appointments not only for myself, but also for one of my daughters who was going through her own health crisis. This caused me to request quite a few late arrivals or early dismissals at my previous job. I was also experiencing bouts of chronic fatigue and brain fog that made concentrating at work difficult. I felt depleted and defeated to the point where I felt I could no longer fulfill the demands of my position. I finally made the decision to hand in my resignation and that was the best decision I made. I had no idea what was going to happen next, except I was tired of feeling unfulfilled. I was ready to start something that gave me true flexibility, autonomy, and where I wasn’t being made to feel that I wasn’t good enough. I was drawn to substitute teaching based on a combination of my life experiences, personal values, and a desire to make a difference in the lives of young people. What better place can I make an impact and feel some semblance of control in my day to day life?! Here are the reasons I have chosen to be a substitute teacher. Familiar Territory . When I first moved to the United States, I worked as a nanny/babysitter for about ten years before moving into the corporate world. I still remember the money I made working in that role! That’s a story for another day. When I finally decided to cut the cord in childcare, I had different aspirations. I envisioned a more conventional career path, one that might offer more stability or higher financial rewards. But life has a way of steering us in directions we never anticipated. My journey into education began not with a career plan, but with a series of small, seemingly unrelated experiences that planted the seeds. When I worked in childcare, people frequently stopped to ask if I was a teacher. I quickly quipped no and I have no plans of ever going into such a thankless role. Boy, did the future have a big surprise for me. When my children started school, I always wanted to be actively involved in their school life. I attended all the parent teacher association (PTA) meetings, joined the Equity Committee and the Student Leadership Team (SLT), all of which were meant to empower parents and our school community. At the time, I thought of it as just another way to give back to the community—a way to fill my time with something meaningful. But what I didn’t realize was how much those interactions would impact me. I also showed up to read to my daughters’ classmates, help at breakfast and was even the unofficial face painter at some activities. The way they would be so excited to see me when I came in gave me such joy. These small moments began to add up, and I found myself looking forward to my time with them. A Desire to Make a Difference . As I continued to work in the committees and with the kids, I saw the gaps in the education system more clearly. As we discussed subjects of equity and helping in the recruitment of students and staff of a more diverse population, I saw that schools need individuals who genuinely care about the success of their students. This realization sparked something in me. I began to think about how I could play a larger role in the lives of students, how I could help bridge those gaps, and provide the support they so desperately needed. That’s when the idea of substitute teaching came into play. I thought about it, but the timing wasn’t right. I was contemplating a move with my family to another city, so the salary from my job at the time was a necessity. Once I moved to my new city and tested out a new job in Human Resources, I resigned from that role. This was now the perfect time to pursue substitute teaching. This opportunity allowed me to be in the classroom, interact with students, and make an impact, all while giving me the flexibility to explore my options. Flexibility and Freedom . One of the biggest appeals of substitute teaching is the flexibility it offers. Unlike a full-time teaching position, which requires a long-term commitment to one classroom and a specific curriculum, substitute teaching allows for a more varied experience. This was particularly appealing to me as someone with an unpredictable chronic illness and the co-parent of young children who does not have a support system around us. As a substitute teacher, I have the freedom to work across different grade levels and subjects, which has given me a broad perspective on the educational system as a whole. One day, I might be teaching elementary school students how to add and subtract, and the next, I could be discussing Shakespeare with high school seniors. This variety keeps the job exciting and allows me to continually learn and grow as an educator. My partner and I were able to coordinated our schedules where he would do morning drop offs and I would do the afternoon pick ups. I appreciate not having to rush out from work to pick up my children. I am able to easily cancel jobs when crises or health matters arise without feeling like I was causing massive disappointment to my colleagues. Additionally, the flexibility of substitute teaching has allowed me to pursue other interests and commitments outside of the classroom. Whether it’s furthering my education, working on personal projects like this blog or spending time with family, substitute teaching provides a work-life balance that is often hard to find in other careers. Building Relationships with Students . One of the most rewarding aspects of being a substitute teacher is the relationships I’ve been able to build with students. Though I may be in different classes every day, I’ve found that even in these brief interactions, there’s an opportunity to make a meaningful connection. Amazingly, the group of students I feared the most—high schoolers—have turned out to be the most rewarding. There’s something special about being the “new” teacher in the room. Students are often curious and eager to see how the day will go, and this gives me a unique opportunity to engage with them in a fresh way. I’ve learned that being a good substitute teacher isn’t just about following the lesson plan left by the regular teacher; it’s about bringing your own energy, creativity, and compassion into the classroom. Over time, I’ve developed a knack for quickly reading the room, understanding the dynamics of each class, and finding ways to connect with students. Whether it’s through a shared interest in sports, a love of books, or simply taking the time to listen to their stories, I’ve been able to build rapport with students that often leads to positive learning experiences. I remember one particular instance where I had a particularly difficult third grade class. The disruptions were out of control. There was a group who were amazing, but a few others who were arguing with each other. I was in my second week and completely unprepared for that. By the end of the day I was able to pull everyone together to listen to a story time that they very much enjoyed and participated in. Moments like these remind me of why I chose this path. Facing the Challenges . Of course, substitute teaching isn’t without its challenges. There are days when it feels like everything is going wrong. These days can be frustrating and leave you questioning whether you’re making any impact at all. But I’ve come to realize that these challenges are part of what makes the role so important. Being a substitute teacher requires adaptability, patience, and resilience. It’s about being able to walk into a classroom of strangers and quickly establish a sense of order and trust. It’s about being willing to learn on the fly and not being afraid to admit when you don’t have all the answers. Personal Growth and Fulfillment . Substitute teaching not only allows me to make a difference in the lives of students but has also been a profound journey of personal growth. It has pushed me out of my comfort zone, challenged my assumptions, and taught me more about myself than I ever could have imagined. It has also made me a more confident public speaker, with a level of assertiveness that I never had before. Through this role, I also have a deeper understanding of the lives of children and teenagers. I’ve come to appreciate the diverse backgrounds and experiences that students bring to the classroom, and how these differences shape their learning. I take pride in trusting my judgment when it comes to my interactions with students, especially when all they need is a little empathy. Moreover, substitute teaching has given me a sense of fulfillment that I hadn’t found in previous jobs. There’s a unique joy in knowing that, even if it's just for a day, you’ve made a positive impact on a child’s life. Whether it’s helping a student grasp a difficult concept, offering a word of encouragement, or simply being a positive presence in their day, these small acts add up to something much greater. I’ve come to appreciate the unique position that substitute teachers hold—we’re not just fill-ins, but integral parts of the educational ecosystem, providing support and stability when it’s needed most. Most importantly, it has shown me that sometimes, the best decisions are the ones that aren’t planned. It has given me my life back in a way that I could not foresee. Even though this may just be a pit stop, I will value the lessons that this profession has taught me. I will continue to make a difference—one classroom at a time.