How to Host a Football Themed Party

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Football season is here, and that means it's time to start planning your football party! Whether you're hosting a small gathering of friends or a large tailgate, there are a few things you need to do to make sure your party is a success.

Planning

The first step is to plan, if you fail to plan then you plan to fail! Location is key to your success. Will this be at a venue or home?  Decide how many people you're going to invite, what food and drinks you're going to serve, and what kind of activities you're going to have. If you're hosting a tailgate, you'll also need to figure out the logistics for others to participate. 

Food and Drinks

No football party is complete without food and drinks! When planning your menu, be sure to include finger foods that are easy to eat while watching the game. Some good options include pizza, wings, sliders, and chips and dip. And of course, you can't forget the beer and juice boxes if we’re going for a kid-friendly event. Be sure to have fun with the food. Take a play on the food with X’s and O’s. 

Activities

In addition to watching the game, there are a few other activities you can have at your football party. Some popular options include playing cornhole, foosball, or beer pong. You can also set up a TV in another room so people can watch other games or movies. This is perfect for a family friendly event, having movies and snacks specifically for the children.

Decorations

No football party is complete without decorations! Hang up some team banners, put up some football-themed streamers, and don't forget the balloons! You can also set up a table with all of your team's gear so people can show their support. Make it a fun competition and have a small gift for the best dressed couple or family.

Foil Football Balloons, Football Party Supplies, Foam Finger, Referee Shirt, Party Favors

Clean Up

After the game is over, it's time to clean up. Be sure to take out the trash, put away any leftover food and drinks, and clean up any messes. When hosting, I make sure I have large trash bins that are accessible to my guests. When having a large gathering, people will tend to float inside and outside, having a trash bin in both locations making cleaning up a breeze.

Following these tips will help you host a football party that your guests will love! So get planning and get ready for some fun!




Celebrating Galentine's Day: Honoring the Power of Friendship

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A sweet friendship refreshes the soul. Proverbs‬ ‭27:9‬‬ MSG

In our fast-paced lives, it can be easy to overlook the importance of friendships. We often prioritize romantic relationships or career goals, leaving little time to appreciate the special bonds we share with our friends. Galentine's Day, a holiday dedicated to celebrating female friendships, offers the perfect opportunity to show our appreciation and love for the women who make our lives richer.


Embracing the Essence of Galentine's Day:

Galentine's Day, a term coined by the beloved sitcom "Parks and Recreation," has evolved into a global celebration of friendship. It's a day to celebrate the unique, unbreakable bond between women, reminding us of the power and support we find in each other's company. I am blessed to have some truly amazing women in my life that love and support me. I may not speak with them everyday but I know they’re just a phone call away.

Ways to Celebrate Galentine's Day:

There are countless ways to celebrate Galentine's Day and show your appreciation for your girlfriends. Here are a few ideas to inspire your celebration:

  • Galentine's Brunch: Organize a brunch or breakfast gathering where you and your friends can enjoy delicious food and meaningful conversations. Share stories, laughter, and your favorite dishes to create a memorable experience. Have everyone bring a dish or collect funds and have the brunch catered.

  • Friendship Photoshoot: Capture the essence of your friendship by organizing a photoshoot. Choose a scenic location or a fun studio to create beautiful memories that you can cherish for a lifetime. Pictures are worth 1000 words and being able to have these special photos will mean so much to you. I love taking pictures with my girls!

  • DIY Craft Party: Plan a crafting session where you and your friends can create handmade gifts or engage in creative activities. It's a great way to express your artistic side and bond over a shared love for crafting. A DIY paint and sip would be perfect; find a picture online and order canvases or hire someone!

  • Spa Day Retreat: Treat yourselves to a day of relaxation and pampering. Book a spa day where you can receive massages, facials, and other rejuvenating treatments. It's a perfect way to unwind and recharge together.

  • Galentine's Movie Night: Host a cozy movie night featuring your favorite films. Prepare a selection of snacks, drinks, and comfy seating for a relaxing evening of laughter and shared entertainment.

Galentine's Day is a reminder of the strength and significance of female friendships. It's a day to celebrate the women who inspire us, support us, and make our lives brighter. By embracing the spirit of Galentine's Day, we can deepen our bonds, create lasting memories, and remind each other of the incredible power that comes from the bonds we share.


I’m a Barbie Girl | Diversity in Mattel Barbie

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Let’s face it, if you haven’t seen the Barbie movie or didn’t want to be a Barbie this summer you really missed out! Kudos to the Barbie marketing team because they hit this one out of the park. After watching the movie, it allowed me to take a moment to see what types of barbies were available. The goal of the movie was to showcase a variety of barbies in different races and roles, although this missed out on the cultural part, but it was a start.

I’m even more excited to see the changes since I checked out a few curvy barbies in 2018.

The Barbie Movie

Barbie is a movie that has been in the works for a long time, and premiered in theaters on July 21, 2023. The movie stars Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken. The movie is directed by Greta Gerwig, who is known for her work on movies like Lady Bird and Little Women.

The movie is about a Barbie who is living in a perfect world, but she starts to feel like something is missing. She then goes on an adventure to find her true self and expresses the tough realities of being a woman.

The movie has gotten a lot of buzz; both good and bad. I personally enjoyed the movie and felt it hit home. I enjoyed seeing all of the throwbacks and discontinued Barbies. Do I wish it was more diverse? Sure, but I went into it being a fun movie and that’s what it was. If you are a fan of Barbie, or if you are just looking for a fun movie to watch, then it's worth checking out. 

On my recent trip to Target, I decided to take a trip down the doll aisle to see what Barbie has been up to and here’s what I found.

Barbie Fashionistas Doll with Wheelchair and Ramp 

Barbie Self-Care Rise & Relax Doll with Gray Puppy

Barbie Gymnastics Playset

Barbie You Can Be Anything Baby Doctor




Overall, I’m happy to see that Barbie has stepped up their game by providing a diverse set of Barbie dolls. There are plus size barbies, multicultural barbies, and differently abled barbies for all kids to enjoy.




Tips For Finding a Therapist

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Hey Friends! If you’ve found this article, that means you’re considering therapy, and let me tell you, it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done for myself. I want you to know that you're not alone. Millions of people seek therapy every year to help them with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and grief.

I’ve been on a healing journey for years, and one of the main things that has stopped my progress is the ability to have a good and consistent therapist. I found that in-person appointments didn’t work for me. It required too much time and resources, so virtual sessions became my perfect solution. I aim to continue working on myself every day and showing up as the best version of myself. In doing so, that required me to start therapy again. 

Finding a therapist can be daunting, but it's important to find someone who is a good fit for you. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you're starting your search:

  • Do your research. Before you start interviewing therapists, research to learn more about different types of therapy and what to expect from therapy. You can find information about therapy online, in books, and from friends or family who have seen therapists.

  • Talk to your doctor. If you have a doctor, you can ask for a referral to a therapist. Your doctor may be able to recommend someone who is familiar with your medical history and who can help you with your specific needs.

  • Ask for recommendations. Talk to friends, family, or coworkers who have seen therapists and ask for their recommendations. You can also ask your local mental health association for a list of therapists in your area.

  • Interview potential therapists. Once you have a few names of potential therapists, schedule an interview with each one. This is your chance to get to know the therapist and see if they are a good fit for you. Ask the therapist about their experience, their approach to therapy, and their availability. This may often be referred to as a consultation and may be offered for free.

  • Trust your gut. When you're interviewing therapists, pay attention to your gut feeling. If you don't feel comfortable with a therapist, don't feel obligated to see them. There are plenty of other therapists out there who can help you.

I was able to find an amazing therapist via the Therapy for Black Girls Directory. I entered therapy in October 2020, and it was good, but that therapist no longer fit the needs and style of therapy that I needed. I was in a crisis and wanted to find help immediately. It was huge for me to realize this, and starting my therapy journey again in 2023, I took a new approach. I researched long and hard; I knew the things I wanted help with the most, and I only sought out a therapist who could provide that for me. 

Starting therapy can be a big step, but it can also be one of the most rewarding things you do for yourself. By finding a therapist who is a good fit for you, you can start on the path to healing and recovery.

Here are a few additional tips for finding a therapist:

  • Be prepared to answer questions about your mental health history and your goals for therapy.

  • Be honest with the therapist about your expectations and concerns. (When you have the right therapist, you’ll feel comfortable being honest.)

  • Be open to trying different types of therapy.

  • Don't be afraid to ask for help if you're not sure what to do.


If you're struggling to find a therapist, there are a few resources available to help you. You can contact your local mental health association or crisis hotline for assistance. You can also find online directories of therapists in your area.

Finding a therapist can be a challenge, but it's worth it. With the right therapist, you can make progress on your mental health goals and live a happier, healthier life.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. You can also reach the Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.

You can also call 1-800-985-5990 or text “TalkWithUs” to 66746 at the SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline. Trained crisis workers will listen to you and direct you to the resources you need.

Wishing you all the best!