Author: Alethea Awuku

I am a mother to 4 beautiful sons. I am a wife and homemaker. Some of my passions are the pursuit of a deeply fulfilled family life, marketing communications and creating valuable systems and products to encourage myself and other mums in homemaking. I am committed to raising my boys with excellence, wellness, fitness, writing and savouring a slower paced life.
a smiling woman writing on a board while sitting on the floor

How do I balance family and personal life?

Published on by Alethea Awuku5 Comments

Hey mama,

I hope you are doing well?

Have you ever felt like your days are spiraling at the speed of light and it’s hard to place your feet on the ground and just breathe?

Most days, I feel this exact way. Really in the thick of it as a young mother with 3 young children. Sometimes, everything is up in the air and I can’t get a grasp on anything- all the while feeling so exhausted from the sheer pace of it all.

I feel like I am in a tornado, yet in the midst of this, what do I do? Of course to get in inspiration (and let’s be honest to escape my own life for a moment and be nosey) I hop onto social media to take a peek at the mothers who appear to be doing so well in work, family life, home life and personal interests- further making me feel defeated as I struggle to keep my eyes open and motivation up to play yet another game with my boys in the day.

Can you relate?

It can be a daily battle to feel and believe that we are building balance and abundance when all the busyness and tiredness merges into one.

Yet my passion and belief is that we can all thrive in motherhood and home/family life if we keep working at it.

In today’s post, I want to talk about balancing family demands and responsibilities, while cultivating our personal lives. Balancing family and personal life is a challenge that many of us face as we expand and grow, but it isn’t impossible to cultivate a life that reflects all of our values, beliefs and desires. With prayer, wisdom, and a lot of intentional effort, it is possible to achieve a harmonious balance and consistency in this area of our lives.

Here are some guiding principles that help me greatly and I hope they’ll be an encouragement to you too. At the end of each point, I’ll suggest an action which I hope will help you to start thinking about ways that you can add more balance to your own life.

Decide what is important to you and your family

I’d begin by looking at your overall family and personal WHY. Knowing what is important to you personally, and to your family is the first step to identifying where you want to put your energy and resources. In the beautiful confetti flying chaos of raising a family, it is easy to lose sight of the bigger picture that supports and knits your dreams and ideals together with your current reality. Managing multiple daily commitments, activities, social events, plans and relationships under one household can be an extremely demanding and overwhelming responsibility.

In the midst of all the hustle and bustle of moving from room to room, and in and out of the front door, it can honestly feel like we are living in a whirlwind with no idea where everyone will eventually land. Having a family mission and regularly reviewing it, has helped to give our days purpose and helped to structure out what those days will look like. It doesn’t always flow perfectly, but it gives us a blueprint to follow and come back to during the busy and overwhelming days. It also sets as a powerful mirror that reflects back to us where we are spending our time, money and energy.

Once you have decided on what is important to you and WHY, you can build in actionable steps taking into account that season of life that you are currently living in. Having a mutual understanding with your husband about this foundational area of your lives helps you to eliminate the things that don’t serve you, and get excited about the things that do!

Action: Purchase your family mission statement today and start thinking and working through the key areas of your life that you want to build up.

Seek God first

The foundation of balance in life for us as Christians begins with our relationship with God. Matthew 6:33 reminds us to “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” I’ve found that when we look at life from a biblical worldview, i.e. asking “how does this first serve God and bring Him glory?” It helps to clarify and eliminate options that don’t serve this goal.

Seeking God first is the cornerstone of balancing family and personal life and this is not just for the social activities that we engage in, but for the way in which we guide, teach and nurture our children. When we have children and they start growing up, the clubs and extra- curricular activities become the thing that drain a lot of parents time and energy. We want our children to have the best chance at everything, and we are so passionate about exposing them to all the possibilities that this world has to offer. However, sometimes this can work against the family harmony, finances and balance.

By prioritising time with God through prayer, reading the Bible, and worship, we gain the wisdom and perspective that helps us to set the right priorities based on the season that we are in. We are reminded of what the first thing is, and we are reassured that God sees us and our household. He loves us, He will help our children to grow and thrive, and we do not need to go into overdrive in the quest of keeping them occupied. The Lord tenderly reminds us that He is all that we need to make our family feel loved and supported while, also attending to our personal needs, desires and prayer points.

When we seek God first, we are reminded of His peace and grace, which allows us to cultivate a sense of gratitude and contentment, even amidst the busyness of motherhood. It encourages us to be more present with our children and spouse, recognising the value in each one of them, and in the moment. Ultimately, placing God at the center helps us create a balanced, joyful, and fulfilling life that reflects His love and purpose, and this makes us more focused, and better equipped to handle the specific responsibilities, challenges and blessings that come with our unique family life.

Action: Set some time aside early in the morning or late at night to journal, and pray, asking God to help you seek Him first in your family life. What is unique to your family situation in this season that needs your time, energy and resources? We don’t need to do all the things that others are doing if it doesn’t flow well for us right now.

Discuss, and prioritise your roles

I remember feeling very frustrated and limited in my role as a mother because I couldn’t move about as freely as my husband. Typically, he picks himself up and he goes wherever he has to go, and does whatever he needs to do without an entourage. Simple tasks like getting into the car, popping the supermarket, going to the post office, working without interruptions are all easy for him because he doesn’t have to consider carrying the kids around with him. That part is covered by me.

I take on that weight and on some days I just feel so tired of it all lol. The constant talking sends me over the edge and I miss the days when I could just drive in peace and run quick errands. Yet when I think of it from a biblical perspective, and from the perspective of mother, I am encouraged to remember that my children are a blessing, and they like to spend time with me. I think about what the role of mother entails and it helps me to open my heart to appreciate, love and slow down as I navigate the day with my children.

Understanding the various roles that God has entrusted to us is key. Wife, mother, daughter, friend, and individual are but a few of the roles that most of us are privileged to experience. Understanding my role as a woman, as defined by biblical principles, profoundly helps me balance my family and personal life. As a Christian mum, embracing my God-given identity and purpose brings clarity and direction when I know what the Bible says about my role.

Recognising that I am called to be a helper, nurturer, and a source of strength within my home allows me to prioritise my family’s needs while also valuing my personal growth and well-being. Slowing down to love, correct and enjoy my children blesses and comforts a part of me, of which I am so grateful to experience. There are several times when I do need moments to myself and understanding this helps me establish healthy boundaries, ensuring I don’t lose myself in the responsibility of daily life.

It reminds me to seek God’s wisdom and strength in fulfilling my duties, whether it’s through nurturing my children, supporting my husband, or cultivating my personal talents and interests. Knowing that God doesn’t want us to fail is so encouraging. Within embracing our roles, we can find joy and fulfillment in serving our families and pursuing our passions, creating a balance that honours God and enriches our lives. This balance is not about perfection but about faithfulness and grace, knowing that through Christ, we can manage and enjoy our responsibilities.

Additionally, understanding our various roles helps us to appreciate the unique qualities God has instilled in us as a women, such as empathy, intuition, and compassion. These traits enable us to connect deeply with our families and communities, building strong relationships. Embracing our role also means acknowledging our worth and the importance of self-care, which is essential for maintaining the energy and joy needed to serve our family effectively.

Action: take some time to reflect on the various roles that you play, and what you do in each of them. Just look at how much God has put in and around you! You are blessed! Next, if there are some areas that are causing stress or anxiety speak to your spouse about it to see if you can either change the dynamic, or get some support in that area.

Plan and prepare days or moments for yourself

This point is important and very practical. Grab a calendar and jot down all the things that a month entails- outings, work, celebrations etc. Planning days or moments for yourself as a mother is important for the below reasons:

  1. Self-Care: Taking time for yourself allows you to recharge and maintain your physical and mental health. Parenting is demanding, and without regular self-care, you risk burnout, stress, and even health issues. Self care is different for everyone. Identify a few things that encourage you to feel like you are thriving and work on actioning them in baby steps. You’ll feel so revitalised and it’ll set a reminder to your brain that you don’t need to be forgotten in the midst of it all.
  2. Role Modeling: By prioritising your moments, you demonstrate to your children the importance of balancing responsibilities and personal well-being. I believe that it is important to teach them this in a healthy way as it is part of a life lesson. They learn that God created mummy to love and raise us, but she is also a person who needs God’s love, help and strength. This teaches them valuable life skills about self-worth and healthy habits.
  3. Maintaining Identity: It’s easy to lose your sense of self when focusing solely on your family. Planning personal time can help you stay connected to your interests, hobbies, and passions, maintaining your individual identity beyond motherhood. I don’t see this as a negative thing at all. When we connect naturally with the things that we personally enjoy outside of our children, we get to bring them into our world as they witness a different side to us and it’s beautiful. When you take care of yourself, you’re better equipped to take care of your family. A well-rested, happy, and healthy mother can provide more effective, patient, and loving care to her children.
  4. Stress Management: Scheduled personal time can help manage stress by providing regular breaks and opportunities to decompress. This is certainly true for me when I go on my regular walks or runs. Simply being outdoors helps to diffuse my thoughts and gain fresh perspective on things.
  5. Enhanced Relationships: Every so often, time away from our daily routines can improve relationships within the family. It gives space for appreciation to grow which leads to more meaningful interactions when we are with our families.
  6. Personal Growth: We are always learning, and can take time out to learn new things as mothers. It enriches us and helps us to build community. By taking some time out to build this area of our lives over time provides opportunities for personal development. Whether learning new skills, pursuing education, or engaging in self-reflection, personal time is crucial for our growth.
  7. Mental Health: Regular breaks and personal time are vital for maintaining good mental health. They provide opportunities to process emotions, reduce anxiety, and improve overall mental well-being. I have found that journaling and prayer in these moments have been a real blessing.

Action: Have a look through your family calendar and see where you can slot in an afternoon, a morning, and hour or two for yourself and set it in there as an important activity that you agree on with your husband.

Communicate with Love

It can be hard sometimes to communicate to your husband that you need more assistance in an area, or that you need him and the kids to pick up a particular responsibility, but open and loving communication with our family is essential. Setting some time aside to speak with our husbands and share our needs in an encouraging way helps us to feel heard and valued in family life. This is important because as mum’s we are an integral part of our family unit, and so it’s healthy for us to practice exercising our voice when it comes to the area of communication.

Some areas where I have had to learn to communicate clearly and lovingly are:

  1. Delegation and Collaboration: Encouraging the whole family to be involved in household tasks is something that I am trying to be so consistent in because it is a genuine help to me as much as it is training for them. Often, I can do it and much quicker, however it doesn’t always help to ease my load so we work hard to encourage team effort, teaching our children the value of teamwork and responsibility. This not only lightens your load but also strengthens family bonds.
  2. Learning to say no: It’s okay to say no to additional commitments that do not align with your priorities. It’s not always easy, but we have to be sensitive the times, seasons and moments of our lives and decide accordingly. Seeking discernment through prayer to know when to say yes and when to say no is so liberating because we realise that we are in control of our schedules and the rhythm of our days. If balance is something that we are trying to build, all things need to align to that goal.
  3. Rely on community: Another point that isn’t always logistically easy for a lot of us. We are not meant to walk on this journey alone, and we can lean on others for support. Galatians 6:2 encourages us to “carry each other’s burdens.” Don’t hesitate to seek help from friends, mentors, or church family. It is a great encouragement to the heart, and in some cases can come at just the time when you need to be refreshed.

Action: Are there any of these points that you can start on?

Balancing family and personal life is an ongoing journey! It requires wisdom, patience, and grace. By seeking God’s guidance and applying these principles, I hope you can find a fulfilling balance that honours Him and enriches you and your family’s life.

Speak to you soon and here’s to thriving in this beautiful season that we are in.

Alethea x-o

bouquet of white roses on table

Why is motherhood so hard?

Published on by Alethea Awuku4 Comments

Motherhood is a journey filled with unparalleled joy, deep deep love, moments of sheer wonder, and an equal measure of complete unpredictability and overwhelm. The word itself evokes a flood of emotions that fills our hearts in the most beautiful way. But I’ve got to be real: motherhood also brings tremendous exhaustion, doubt, and sometimes a deep sense of inadequacy.

Can I be even more honest? This has got to be one of the most challenging roles that I have ever undertaken. As a Christian mother, I often find myself asking God, “Why does this feel so hard and overwhelming?” “Why don’t I always look and feel as though I am at ease on this journey- and I am only 6 years in!”

In this post, I wanted to share some thoughts on the challenging moments in motherhood from an honest and authentic place, as well as from the perspective of the redemptive and transforming hope that we have in Christ.

The Weight of Responsibility in motherhood

As I reflect on this, I believe that one of the primary reasons motherhood feels so hard is due to the immense responsibility it carries. From the very moment I found out I was expecting my first child and boy, my brain naturally went into overdrive. An overwhelming sense of responsibility took hold of me because suddenly, here I was, entrusted with the life and well-being of a whole tiny human – made in God’s image. The weight of making the right decisions—whether it’s about health, education, or instilling values in our children can feel incredibly heavy on our hearts. I now have three boys and I am always thinking about ways to train and nurture good character in them. We go to bed with a lot on our minds, and wake up with our brains running at 100 miles per hour.

“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6

This verse both inspires and instructs us to be diligent in our parenting. One of my take aways from this verse is the power of habits in the area of training. No matter what it is- good or bad, we are training our children to believe, accept and understand life from a particular perspective. The seeds we sow now, will be implanted in their hearts and shape their future later on. Being faithful to trust that God will water these seeds in their hearts helps to ease the anxiety and overwhelm that comes with such a responsibility.

While we play a significant role in our children’s lives, ultimately, their journey is in God’s hands. He loves them even more than we do, and He has a plan for their lives. God is sovereign and He works all things for our good; even our parenting blunders!

Often, the weight of responsibility also falls upon us when it comes to home management. Balancing the task of maintaining a clean home while looking after children can feel like a never-ending battle. There are days when the laundry piles up, toys are scattered everywhere, and the dishes seem to multiply each time we walk through the kitchen. It’s easy to stress about keeping everything spotless, but I’ve learned to adjust my expectations and find a balance that works for my family.

To ease some of the stress in this area, we can focus on creating a home that is functional and comfortable rather than perfect. I’ve started involving my children in the cleaning and laundry process. It not only lightens my load but also teaches them responsibility. We turn chores into fun activities, like having a race to see who can pick up the most toys or playing music while we clean. It’s not always smooth sailing, but by embracing a bit of mess and finding joy in the process, I’ve discovered that a clean home and happy children can coexist, even if it means things aren’t always picture-perfect. This approach has brought more peace and laughter into our home, reminding me that the goal is not perfection, but a loving and nurturing environment, and a balance that helps me to carry my load well.

The Sacrifice of Self

Motherhood requires so much self-sacrifice. From the moment conception occurs, our body begins to change in remarkable ways. Hormonal shifts cause everything from morning sickness to mood swings. The body starts to make room for the growing baby, which often leads to discomfort and pain. As the baby grows, organs shift, the spine adjusts, and our bodies carry additional weight. Stretch marks, swelling, and changes in skin texture are all things that we have to deal with- not to mention the moment of birth and all that comes with it. It truly is an extraordinary journey.

There are sleepless nights, countless nappy changes, and a never-ending list of demands. There are some days when I feel like I’ve lost myself completely. My own dreams and desires often take a backseat to the needs of my children. On one particularly challenging day, I remember looking at my tired face in the mirror, the incoming grey hairs, postpartum hair loss and thinking “wow, I feel like I have lost so much”.

The things I once enjoyed—reading a good book, going for a jog, even just taking a quiet moment to myself—have became rare luxuries with very young children. The sacrifice is very real, and yet I am humbled as I think of this role as a mere shadow of the life of Christ and all He had to give up so we could have life in Him. His sacrifice and death meant life for us! What a great call when we walk down this path. We are called to lay down our lives for our children, but in doing so, we must also remember to find time to replenish our spirits and care for ourselves, seeking strength and renewal in our relationship with Christ.

The demands of motherhood can make it seem like there’s no room for anything else. But over time, I’ve learned the importance of self-care. Finding time for myself, even in small ways, helps me to recharge. Whether it’s spending a few minutes in prayer and reflection each morning or taking a walk in the evening, these moments help me to center myself and draw closer to God.

Creating a “thrive list” has been a game-changer for me in navigating the demands and sacrifice in motherhood. This list includes all the things that bring me joy and fulfillment such as reading a good book, taking a walk in nature, enjoying a hot cup of tea, or spending quiet time in prayer. By intentionally setting aside time to engage in this, I ensure that I don’t lose myself in the daily responsibilities of motherhood. It’s a reminder that nurturing my own well-being is essential, not only for me but also for my ability to be the best mother I can be to my boys. Making space for what I love helps me to thrive, maintaining a sense of balance and joy in the beautiful chaos of raising children.

You can download yours for FREE here and put it in a place where you’ll see it and be encouraged to pour into yourself.

My-Thriving-ChecklistDownload

The Battle Against Perfectionism

One of the areas that can make motherhood feel so hard in today’s world, is the pressure to be the “perfect” mother because of what we see online and on the television. Social media often bombards us with images of seemingly flawless families and this can make us question our own abilities and worth. It’s filled with images of spotless homes, gourmet meals, and perfectly behaved children as people share their highlight reels. It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparison and feel like we are not measuring up when we constantly feast on these images and videos. We worry about whether we are doing enough, whether our children are thriving, and whether we measure up to other mothers as we only think about all the things that we aren’t doing.

However, Romans 3:23 reminds us, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” We are not called to be perfect; we are called to be faithful. Our imperfections and struggles are opportunities to lean on God’s grace and to teach our children about His unconditional love and forgiveness. By embracing our imperfections, we show our children that it is okay to make mistakes and that God’s grace is sufficient for all our shortcomings.

My home might be messy, my meals might not be gourmet, and my children definitely have their difficult moments as do I, but that’s okay. Responding to God’s redemptive offer time and time again helps us to keep our hearts focused on what truly matters, which is a home filled with love.

Finding Strength in Community

Motherhood can feel isolating, especially when we face challenges that we think no one else understands. However, we are not meant to walk this journey alone. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 tells us, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”

Finding a community of fellow mothers has been a lifeline for me. Whether through church groups, parenting classes, or online forums, sharing my experiences with others who understand has lightened my load. We laugh together, cry together, and lift each other up just in the moment we need it most.

I remember the first time I attended our first Homeschool co-op group. I was nervous and a bit reluctant to share my struggles. However, as I listened to other mothers speak about their own challenges and triumphs, I felt a sense of camaraderie. We were all in this together. Over time, these women have become a support system for me. Knowing that I’m not alone in my struggles has been incredibly comforting. That’s why this space Graced for Home is so precious. It is a space for us to join hands, be encouraged, share and be inspired to continue on our journey.

Embracing God’s Plan

Ultimately, the challenges of motherhood remind us to trust in God’s plan for our lives and the lives of our children. Jeremiah 29:11 offers us hope: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

When motherhood feels hard, we can find solace in knowing that God is not just with our children, but with us too, guiding us through every difficulty and rejoicing with us in every triumph. By surrendering our worries and burdens to Him, we can find peace and assurance that we are not alone in this journey.

There are days when I question if I’m doing enough, if I’m making the right choices, if I’m a good mother. The chaos can be so overstimulating for me to the point of shut down. In those moments, I turn to God in prayer. I ask for His guidance, His wisdom, and His peace. I remind myself of His promises and His faithfulness. Trusting in God’s plan doesn’t mean that motherhood will be easy, but it does mean that we are not alone. He is with us, every step of the way, providing the strength and grace we need to help us raise our little ones.

laptop beside clear glass vase

How to Start a Blog in 10 Easy Steps

Published on by Alethea Awuku1 Comment

If you’re wondering how to start a blog, and make money online, this in-depth post will guide you through the setup process step by step so that you can have your new blog up and running today!

I’ll be honest and say that it can all be overwhelming. There is just so much information out there, and as mums we already have a million tabs open in our minds. My aim in this post is to break down the process of what a blog is and how one is started so you’ll get an overview of how to start one too if you want to run a meaningful and impactful thriving business from home!

Mark today as the day that something profound shifts in favour for you and your family. You can completely change your lives, and see financial blessings over time by learning how to start a blog around a passion or interest. It is possible!

I left my corporate career in marketing and communications in 2022 to stay at home full time with my three beautiful boys, but I wanted to contribute to one of our family streams which was building our children’s savings accounts. I have tried multiple ways to make money from home as a stay at home mum. After many different ventures, I finally learned how to start a blog and make money from it. I am still learning and growing, and want to share everything with you too so that you can thrive right from home, and anywhere else in the world that you please.

This in depth guide will show you exactly how to start a blog, what tools to use, how to write your first blog post, how to get traffic and how to make money with your blog. It is a lot so bookmark this page so you can come back to it! I’ll also break down the sections for you so that you can read and link through them and come back to read when you need to.

I help and serve mums who want to start a successful blogging journey using their own authentic voice to share or provide value in the area of their passions and interests with a valued and small community. This guide can be used by any woman who desires to start a successful blog and earn an income from it!

  • It’s for the stay at home mum who wants to contribute to her family finances
  • The working mum who wants time freedom so she can spend more time with her children and loved ones
  • It’s for the mums of grown up children who want to explore a creative way of sharing their experience and advice
  • Any woman who wants to explore the world of digital marketing and how to earn an income from it!

It’s possible to have a blog up and running in just a few minutes, and in this guide, I’ll show you some of the important details behind starting a successful blog. I’ll be adding a lot of links (non-affiliate) and downloadable PDFs so you’ll have all the resources you need to get started quickly!

What is a blog?

A blog is a type of website or an online platform where you regularly publish valuable content, typically in the form of written articles, known as posts. Blogs can cover a wide range of topics, from personal experiences and opinions to specialised subjects such as technology, fashion, travel, food, or business. Blogs allow readers to leave comments, creating interaction and building a personal community around your content.

Topics covered in this guide:

Step 1: Brainstorm your passion and interests

Step 2: Think about your audience (niche)

Step 3: Choose a Blog name

Step 4: Choose your blog host

Step 5: Navigating WordPress

Step 6: Writing your first few blog posts

Step 7: Add Standard Blog Pages

Step 8: Decide on a Blog Posting Schedule

Step 9: Promote Your Blog

Step 10: Make Money Blogging

Step 1: Take time to think about your passion and interests

Grab a notebook and write down some of the first thoughts that come to mind when you think about the things that you are interested in. What makes you excited? passionate, sad, happy, hopeful? What stage are you in your life journey and what do you find yourself googling a lot about as a result? What websites or social media accounts do you enjoy and why?

Your answers to these questions will help build a picture about your interests and if you think broader, the kind of audience that consumes this content. This will help you shortlist possible blog areas that you can talk about.

Reminder: You don’t have to be an expert yet, as you blog you’ll become better! As long as there is a genuine interest, you’ll build consistency easily.

A genuine worry when it comes to our interests, is whether there will be enough people in the world also interested in it to help us build a profitable income. I here you. A quick way to gauge this is: Search on Amazon. Have a look under the topic you want to blog about. Have there been a lot of books written? what do the reviews say? This gives you an idea of what people are saying- good and bad. You can also do a good old google search and see what automatically pops up. This will help you to know if there is an audience for what you want to blog about. Evidence of a strong audience means potential for income which is a great sign.

Step 2: Who is your audience and how are they linked to your passion


Finding your niche audience is a crucial step in building a successful blog or business. Most likely, your area of interest is broad (e.g. I enjoy content around cooking meals for my family). This passion is completely fine, but we can niche down even more. What type of cuisines are enjoyed? why? Any health benefits? cultural interests or preferences? Are we cooking for babies, toddlers, teenagers, or thinking about hosting for large or small family gatherings? Are we adding the whole hosting (decor items) into the mix or are we thinking purely about the food preparation? Is the content around the purchasing of the food (and where to buy the most affordable ingredients), or the actual cooking and plating of it?

See what I’ve done there? There are so many ways that you can look at just one area of interest and break it down. As you break it down, the audience is niched down and this is great because you can then get more specific, and this means you’ll be able to offer specific advice that will actually be valuable to your audience! Value equals potential for consistent and good income.

Step 3: Pick your blog name

You may have a name picked out already, but if you are struggling in this area I would say don’t stress too much about getting the perfect name for your blog right now– what you blog about is much more important than the name you choose. The name will eventually come to you. It may end up being a fun quirky name, or a straight to the point name.

Either way, you can think about something that will be memorable, not too long and possibly relevant to your topic and audience. Once you know what purpose your blog will serve, you could add in that in the title of your blog e.g. ourfamilymeals.com. A name like this gives your reader instant information about what your blog will center on. If it’s a real struggle you could also just use your own name as your blog title! The benefits of having your own name as your blog is that it’s unique and branded, but also generic enough so you can blog about any topic. Using websites to help you think of blog names is also a great way to get the ideas flowing. 

Once you have decided on a name, you can search for it in domain websites to see if it doesn’t already exist. If you want to, you can purchase the domain name so it’s ready for your website.

Once you have thought of a name you can go ahead and also create a cute logo in an editing suite. Again you don’t have to have it completely figured out at this stage as most likely, you’ll evolve and develop your branding into something stunningly beautiful as time goes on.

Step 4: Decide where you want to host your lovely blog

A hosting website service, is a platform that provides the technologies and services needed for a website to be accessible on the Internet. When you create a website, you need to store its files on a server, and web hosting companies provide the space on their servers to store your website’s files.

Key Features of Web Hosting Services:

  1. Server Space: The core service offered by web hosting providers is server space where your website’s files, databases, and applications are stored.
  2. Domain Name Registration: Many hosting services also offer domain name registration services, allowing you to secure and register the address of your website (e.g., www.yourwebsite.com).
  3. Bandwidth: Hosting services provide a certain amount of bandwidth, which is the amount of data that can be transferred between your website and its users. Higher bandwidth is necessary for websites with high traffic.
  4. Email Accounts: Hosting providers often include email hosting, allowing you to create professional email addresses (e.g., name@yourwebsite.com).
  5. Security Features: These include SSL certificates, firewalls, malware scanning, and other security measures to protect your website from cyber threats.
  6. Database Support: Many websites require databases to function (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL), and hosting services offer support for these databases.
  7. Technical Support: Reliable customer support is crucial for addressing any issues or downtime that may occur.
  8. Backup Services: Regular backups of your website’s data are essential to prevent data loss in case of hardware failure or other issues.

For most users, Bluehost and Cloudways is a great beginner friendly place to start.

There are free platforms out there, such as Blogger and WordPress.com, and they are great for hobby blogs – but if you want to monetise your site, it’s best to have a dedicated blog that is self-hosted, where you control all of the content and have complete ownership of it.

I have always used WordPress.org and found it to be such a robust and reliable website that does it all! A self hosted website on WordPress.org will mean that you control your content and can monetise as your please.

You can now install WordPress and start building your site!

The homepage will look like this: Select “Set up with a hosting provider”.

This will take you to a page where you will have the option to select a hosting provider – Bluehost.
Once you select that option it’ll take you to the Bluehost website where you follow the instructions, purchase the first simple plan, and create your domain name- linking it with your hosting site and blog site.

Step 5: Navigating WordPress and writing your first blog post

All set up? Fantastic! Congratulations! This is an exciting step to launching your wonderful valuable business! Once you have logged into your new WordPress site (be sure to safely record your password details) you’ll see a homepage that looks similar to the below:

Spend some time going through the various settings. It may be confusing at first and overwhelming, but over time, it will all start to look familiar, and you’ll be enjoying all the great benefits of this powerful site. One of the first settings I recommend you change is the permalink structure. Click on “Settings” and then “Permalinks.”

Select the “Post Name” option. It’s important to make this change before you start publishing posts. Once you publish and have inbound links to your posts, it’s a little more difficult to change the URL structure.

Some of the areas in the left hand menu that you’ll need to familiarise yourself with are the Posts, Plugins and Widgets and themes! Installing a theme is really the fun part where you can customise and personalise your site to really reflect your style, or the style of your target audience!.

You can find out more detailed information regarding your dashboard on the WordPress site.

Step 6: Writing your first few blog posts

Once you know what your audience wants to see and know, and you figure out how to create value in your own unique way using your own unique voice, the next step is to create the content- aka write your blog posts! If you aren’t familiar with writing blog posts, this can take some time as you figure out. I would start with a few pillar posts. Your intial brainstorm activity would have given you enough information to know what you want to say, and how you want to present yourself to your audience.

One of the first things that I learnt when starting to think about blogging seriously was the fact that it’s super important to circulate your content around three different types of blog posts when you are just starting:

  • A blog post dedicated to growing traffic (offering valuable information)
  • A blog post to help make money (a recommendation post with links)
  • A blog post that grows your email list (offering something for free for a signup)

See examples of what post titles could look like if your blog was about making family meals:

  • Your traffic post could be, “How to feed your family on a small budget.”
  • Your money making post would be, “The Best Airfryer that saves time and makes food taste delicious.”
  • And your email list post could be, “The family meal plan that will save you time and money – free PDF”.

Keep building on this, giving relevant, relatable and valuable content.

Step 7: Add Standard Blog Pages

Setting up a few pillar posts, as well as foundational things in the first stage will help you build momentum, and will serve as a great central core for you to come back to if you need a reminder of what your blog is about and what you want to do. These posts can always be edited and updated in the future, but for now they are great to start with:

  1. 5 Pillar Posts
  2. A clear blog menu (what are the core areas of your blog purpose)
  3. A good profile picture (take one in natural lighting)
  4. An About Me page
  5. A Disclosure Page – if you plan on using affiliate marketing and selling on your site
  6. A way to contact you (you can add this to your About Me page)
  7. Links to your social media pages

Step 8: Decide on a Blog Posting Schedule

When you are first getting started it can be hard to post consistently if you aren’t used to it. But it’s crucial if you are going to build momentum, and get clearer on what you are offering to your audience. Here, I would suggest building a library of posts quite quickly so that readers have something to browse when they land on your website. Once you have 10-15 posts in place, it would be helpful to you to develop a consistent posting schedule so you don’t get overwhelmed and can give yourself time to think about what you want to write.

Common schedules include daily posts for news or dynamic niches, weekly posts for consistent engagement, bi-weekly posts for higher quality content, and monthly posts for comprehensive, in-depth articles.

You could plan your content calendar by brainstorming relevant topics and varying the types of content, such as how-tos, listicles, interviews, and reviews. Include seasonal and timely posts that align with holidays, seasons, or industry events, and ensure you have buffer time for editing and unforeseen delays. Use tools like Trello, Asana, or Google Calendar to organise your schedule, and leverage CMS platforms like WordPress for built-in scheduling features. Regularly monitor performance using analytics tools like Google Analytics, and be ready to adjust your schedule based on performance data and audience feedback.

For example, a balanced weekly blog schedule might involve publishing a new post on Monday, promoting it on social media on Tuesday, engaging with reader comments on Wednesday, conducting keyword research and outlining the next post on Thursday, writing and editing on Friday, taking a break or focusing on other activities on Saturday, and doing a final review on Sunday. By following these steps, you can develop a blog posting schedule that aligns with your goals and resources while keeping your audience engaged and eager for more content.

When you are posting at the same days and times each week, you become part of your readers’ routines and they come to expect your new posts, which makes it easier to build up a loyal community. The number of times per week or month that you post is up to you. Think about how many helpful blog posts you can publish on a consistent basis, and make that number work for you. 

Social-Media-Post-PlannerDownload

Step 9: Promoting your blog

It goes without saying that one of the first areas that is helpful to think about when promoting your blog and its content is social media. Leveraging social media by choosing platforms where your target audience is most active, such as Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest is great as you’ll be able to build community and interested and engaged followers. Creating a consistent posting schedule will be very useful in establishing yourself as a reliable and go to person for your content which is exactly what we want!

Additionally, optimising your blog for search engines (SEO) is essential. Conduct keyword research using tools like Google Keyword Planner or SEMrush to find relevant keywords and incorporate them naturally into your blog posts. Optimise your titles, headings, meta descriptions, and images with appropriate keywords, and use internal linking to improve navigation and SEO.

Building an email list is another powerful strategy for promoting and growing your blog. Offer a freebie such as an e-book, checklist, or exclusive content to encourage sign-ups, and send regular newsletters with updates, exclusive content, and promotions (if relevant). To enhance this, you can segment your email list to tailor content to different audience segments based on what they respond to; increasing engagement. Collaborating with other bloggers in your industry or area of interest is also a fantastic way of extending your reach to new audiences. You could also write guest posts for other blogs in your niche, engage in link exchanges to boost SEO and referral traffic, and partner for joint giveaways, webinars, or social media takeovers.

Utilising paid advertising to reach a broader audience can be very effective. Facebook Ads, Google AdWords, and Pinterest Ads can effectively drive targeted traffic to your blog. Creating high-quality, shareable content is crucial so do your best to use high-quality images and infographics, write comprehensive guides and how-to posts, and offer content upgrades like printable PDFs to encourage sharing and engagement. Engage in online communities by joining and participating in Facebook groups, answering questions on forums and Q&A sites like Quora, and leaving thoughtful comments on other blogs.

Networking offline can also be beneficial if that interests you or is your preference! Attending local events, meetups, and conferences related to your niche, and hosting or participating in workshops and classes to establish yourself as an authority is a great way to meet others, widen your reach and have fun immersing yourself in an interest.

Offering affiliate marketing is another way to monetise your blog. Join affiliate programs relevant to your niche, include affiliate links in your blog posts, and write detailed reviews of products you genuinely use and love. Always disclose your use of affiliate links to maintain transparency and trust with your readers. If you come across as genuine and honest in this area, you could see a real surge in your income with blogging as we are all looking for someone to share things honestly with us that will transform our lives in one way or another.

There are so many other areas that you could look at when it comes to monetising your blog, but for now I think these suggestions are enough to help you soar when learnt, implemented and mastered over time. By adopting these strategies, you can effectively promote your blog, build a loyal audience, and start generating income from your blogging efforts. Consistency and genuine engagement with your audience are key to long-term success and you can do it!

Step 10: Selling Digital Products

In this last but not least section (I could honestly keep going on!) I want to talk about digital products because when done well, and marketed well, they can be a great source of income. With this model, you create something — maybe an eBook, course, printables, and sell it to your readers on your blog. The great benefits of digital products are that you only have to do the work once when you create it. Then all you have to do is market it to your audience in the right way, or even upload it to popular sites such as Etsy, and you’ll receive an income each time you make a sale.

Unlike physical products, digital products have low production and distribution costs, allowing for significant profit potential. They enable you to leverage your expertise and provide valuable content to your audience in a more in-depth format, enhancing your authority and credibility in your niche. Additionally, digital products can be sold repeatedly without the need for inventory, making them a sustainable income source.

They also offer flexibility, as you can create and sell products tailored to your audience’s needs and preferences, leading to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Conclusion

SO there you go! What I hope is a helpful guide to help you mama. Blogging has the potential to be an incredibly lucrative business if we work consistently at it. By implementing one or more of the strategies shared above, your income could go from £0 to more than £100 a month to several thousand pounds per month over time!

Why do you want to start a blog? Leave your reply below, even if it’s just a few words!

Discover the joy and fulfillment of creating a loving, organised, and faith-filled home! Download my free eBook, “The Homemakers Framework,” for practical tips, encouragement, and inspiration tailored for mothers and homemakers. Start your journey towards mastering home management and nurturing your family’s well-being today. Get your free copy now and transform your home into a sanctuary of love and grace!

download your free ebook here

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My Journey from Corporate Career to Stay-at-Home Motherhood

Published on by Alethea Awuku4 Comments

I transitioned from a thriving corporate career in marketing and publishing, to being a fulltime stay-at-home mother in 2022 because it was a choice that was profoundly important for our family. As an ambitious and capable woman with many dreams and talents, this shift has been both challenging and rewarding.

When I left my first corporate job to work part-time for my church, I was driven by such a desire to serve not only my local fellowship, but as a newly married woman, I knew that I had a heart for home and family life and wanted to pour well into it. My passion for building a joyful, adventurous, and successful life for my tribe became a priority to me. I wanted to learn how to be intentional in creating a nurturing environment and focus on mapping out and bringing to life our unique family values.

Alongside this, my love for marketing and communications remained strong. I often felt the tension between pursuing this interest, and focusing solely on my home life. But what if there didn’t need to be a choice? What if I could beautifully and carefully blend the two while remaining authentic to who I am, and my journey as a woman, Christian, wife, mother, daughter and friend?

I have always had a natural ability in communications, and connecting with others in my own way. My husband encouraged me to pick up my love for this again and document my journey of growth during this transformative season of motherhood so here I am. Slowly, faithfully and authentically showing up as me- Alethea. Blogging is a real gift in the sense that it provides a space for us to have a creative release, as well as building a community of likeminded people who can journey along with us.

One of my worries about being a stay-at-home mother was how we would thrive financially (as this was one of our family goals). I was also deeply insecure about being at home because up until then, I believed that success for me as a woman was only linked to my output in a corporate office. Blogging has released all of that for me and has proven to be a vehicle that has unlocked financial blessing for us as a family, and we see so much potential in it! I believe we can thrive wherever we are. It requires hard work and wholehearted dedication, but it’s possible to build a fulfilling life from what God has placed in our hands, minds, and hearts.

I am a stay-at-home mother and a homeschooling mum to three beautiful boys. Our goal isn’t to become millionaires; if I am honest, the pursuit of wealth can be so exhausting and we want to take stock of where we are using all of our energy. Instead, I aim to create a meaningful, sustainable, and slow-paced income that allows us to feel grateful for our achievements, and build on our goals slowly; all through blogging!

I want to help other beautiful mamas who feel the heart to be based from home to build their families that they can absolutely do this! Staying at home and building a life from there is just as valuable as having a corporate career. We can build systems that serve our family values, and we can earn incomes from home, and build a wonderful community all at the same time.

Life is for living and we want to live it to the fullest with our favourite people.

We don’t want to be chained to a draining 9-5 with no freedom.

We also don’t want to be chained to our laptops, hustling 24/7 to build businesses all in the quest to achieve more and more and more.

I’m here to encourage and help you build a sustainable business that not only has financial blessing attached to it, but gives you peace, enjoyment and freedom to live your dream life without overwhelm. Personally, I don’t want hustle culture – it isn’t suited to me. I don’t want boss babe. I don’t want to be on the hamster wheel, or in front of flashing lights. My heart leans towards the simple, deep and quiet.

You also were not made to spend your life working and pouring into a life that you don’t enjoy. God has put so much in you, and you can connect with that, do work you LOVE, get paid really well for it, and serve your family in a way that works for you- all through blogging.

You can start a blog too and make money from home while helping others too.

If this sounds really interesting to you and you are new to blogging, you can find out more information on how to start a blog and earn an income right from home.

Discover the joy and fulfillment of creating a loving, organised, and faith-filled home! Download my free eBook, “The Homemakers Framework,” for practical tips, encouragement, and inspiration tailored for mothers and homemakers. Start your journey towards mastering home management and nurturing your family’s well-being today. Get your free copy now and transform your home into a sanctuary of love and grace!

download your free ebook here

God Bless,

Alethea

faceless black kids drawing and playing on carpet at home

How to create a fun learning environment for kids

Published on by Alethea Awuku3 Comments

Cultivating a space where curiosity thrives, imaginations soar, and hearts are touched by the wonders of God’s creation is an incredible process to be part of. As mums we have the opportunity to provide that for our children yet at the same time, it can feel overwhelming when we think of our tidy homes being transformed into a playground for little hands, minds and feet. Creating a fun learning environment is totally doable in any environment, and with a few systems and strategies in place, we can transform pockets of areas, and most importantly our atmosphere to bring life to all the souls that dwell in it.

I lean toward minimalism, but I have still found a few ways to make room for play and imagination in my home. In today’s post I am sharing some ideas that we have incorporated into our space to make learning fun for our 3 boys.


Please note that this post contains affiliate links. The purpose of this post is to recommend items that we use or would use. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps keep this blog running.

  1. Use colourful, relatable and engaging decorations: Decorating a wall or part of it with beautiful thought provoking artwork helps to spark the imagination. Incorporating bright colours within the learning space such as posters, artwork, and educational materials related to the subjects your children are studying is useful for igniting further interest in that area. So take your time to search for beautiful imagery, because it’ll not only be visually beautiful and inspiring to look at, but it’ll naturally lead to a conversation about the creativity, wisdom and unmatched power of God.
  2. Incorporate Games and Interactive Activities: Integrate educational games, puzzles, board games, and interactive learning activities that make learning feel like play. These can also include scavenger hunts, role-playing games, and simulations. Teaching on and learning about subjects such as Maths, English, History and Science can be brought to life by incorporating hands on activities. This just cements the information and children are more likely to remember facts and information when it is presented in a vivid way. The boys love learning in a very hands on way, and with my kinesthetic learner, group activities, and hands on activities work really well.
  3. Create a Cozy Reading Nook: Design a comfortable and inviting reading area with bean bags, pillows, rugs, and shelves stocked with a variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, and picture books. This could be in the children’s bedrooms, or in the living area next to the sofa. Reading nooks serve as a personal sanctuary (no matter how small or simple it is) and encourages regular quiet reading time which is great for everyone! It helps to break reading and learning out of a box and reinforces the truth that learning can and does happen everywhere!
  4. Utilise Hands-on Learning Materials: Providing manipulatives, such as blocks, LEGO, puzzles, and art supplies, that children can use to explore concepts in a tactile and hands-on manner is great for creating a fun learning environment. They are so useful for engaging the mind during down time or “gap moments” before something else is scheduled to take place. I have found that my boys are always engaged for a while as it really suits their learning style.
  5. Integrate Technology in a Purposeful Way: Incorporating educational apps, interactive whiteboards, educational videos, and digital resources can enhance learning experiences and allow children to explore topics in innovative ways. The boys love watching Science Max at Large, Dude Perfect, Superbook, Dr Bionics and Science Planet.
  6. Outdoor Learning Spaces: Taking advantage of outdoor spaces for learning activities whenever possible is a must if you want to create a fun learning environment for children. They love to run, jump, dive, create and so much more. If you don’t have a garden or balcony space, the park or fields, trails are absolutely great for getting everyone outdoors for fresh air and fun. You can also conduct science experiments, go on nature walks, get involved in gardening projects, or art sessions in the backyard or local parks. The boys attend forest school once a week and really enjoy swinging, jumping, building dens, playing in mud and working on craft activities.
  7. Incorporate Music and Movement: Music, songs, and movement activities are so important for children as they make learning complex information really fun and easy to remember (think of times tables, poems, languages science information). A quick search online can yield so many results and helps to to enhance learning and energise the atmosphere. Create playlists with educational songs or encourage children to create their own music related to the topics they’re studying!
  8. Celebrate Achievements and Milestones: Recognising and celebrating our children’s achievements, progress, and efforts with praise, rewards, certificates, or special activities can make their learning experience fun. Positive recognition boosts motivation and fosters a sense of accomplishment. We use stickers, and an achievement “trophy” that they boys can earn when they go above and beyond to do a particular work without prompt.
  9. Encourage Collaboration and Teamwork: Providing opportunities for the children to work together on projects, to solve problems collaboratively, and to share their ideas and knowledge with one another is important when trying to build a fun community based environment. We have regular “sports days” in our garden which is so much fun. It gets very competitive which adds to my fun haha.
  10. Rotate Learning Centers: Set up different learning stations or centers with activities related to various subjects or skills. Rotate these centers periodically to keep the environment fresh and exciting. We all need change once in a while to freshen our minds and give us new inspiration. Children are no different. When we change up the space every now and again it invites new energy into activities, and I have found that engagement and focus is also improved.

I hope these tips and ideas have been helpful by incorporating these elements into your learning environment, you can create a space where children feel excited, motivated, and eager to explore and learn! Are there any other things that you do to make learning fun for your children?

photo of plants on the table

5 ways to be productive at home

Published on by Alethea AwukuLeave a comment


Finding Grace in the Chaos: Productivity Tips for the Christian Mother.

Being productive at home is essential for maintaining efficiency, organisation, and overall well-being. As Christian mothers, we are juggling numerous responsibilities: nurturing children, maintaining a household, perhaps working from home, and most importantly, fostering a spiritual environment for our families. In the midst of this whirlwind, finding ways to be productive at home can often feel like a daunting task. However, with a little organisation, a lot of trial and error and grace, it’s entirely possible to manage our time effectively and create a peaceful, thriving, productive home.

Whether you’re homeschooling, managing a home business, or simply trying to keep up with daily chores and tasks, these tips will guide you towards more organised and fulfilling days. Let’s transform our homes into spaces where faith, love, and productivity coexist harmoniously. Here are some quick fire tips to help us achieve this.

Streamline your routine

Simplify your daily tasks by creating a streamlined routine. Identify repetitive tasks and find ways to automate or batch them to save time and energy. Establishing a consistent schedule for chores, meal preparation, and other household responsibilities can help you stay organised and productive.

Declutter Regularly

Keep clutter at bay by decluttering your home on a regular basis. Take time to purge unused or unnecessary items. You can start small and pick a draw or corner of the house. Organising your belongings in a way that maximizes space and functionality doesn’t just provide a clutter-free environment, but it promotes a sense of calm and clarity, making it easier to focus and enjoy your living space.

Prioritise Multi-Functional Solutions:

Opt for multi-functional furniture, storage solutions, and appliances to maximise space and efficiency in your home. Look for versatile pieces that serve multiple purposes, such as a storage ottoman that doubles as extra seating, and a place for toys and games, or a fold-down desk that transforms into a dining table. Choosing multi-functional solutions allows you to make the most of your space without sacrificing functionality.

Create Zones for Efficiency:

Divide your home into zones based on functionality to optimise efficiency and organisation. Designate specific areas for activities such as work, relaxation, and play, ensuring that each zone is tailored to its intended purpose. Creating designated zones helps minimize distractions and promotes productivity by providing dedicated spaces for different activities. Sharing our living space with children doesn’t mean that our home can’t feel calm and organised. We can create fun zones for them, as well as more minimal areas that serve the purpose of relaxation, rest and productivity.

Embrace Minimalism

Embracing a minimalist mindset helps us to prioritise quality over quantity and to focus on what truly adds value to our lives. If it is your preference, curating a home environment that is clutter-free and conducive to peace and tranquility can help your mind feel much calmer. Embracing minimalism allows you to simplify your life, reduce stress, and cultivate a sense of contentment with less.

I hope you enjoyed this quick fire style post! I hope that you’ll be able to build on some of the points and they help enhance efficiency, organisation and productivity in your life.

Here’s to an ever enriched life.

God bless,

Alethea

white and pink cherry blossom

My help comes from the Lord

Published on by Alethea AwukuLeave a comment

There are days when I don’t know whether I am going or coming…

I feel an overwhelming sense of grief- partly because of what I see going on around me, and also from internal thoughts. However paradoxically I am at peace because I know that I am in the place that I need to be. I am positioned where God needs me to be in order to be pruned.

Character development is crucial.

I ask the Lord of a few things, frequently. Strength to help me to stand against the enemy, a discerning spirit to know what to pray against, and for the Holy Spirit to take control of my mind.  I have no strength apart from what He graces me with. Since I left career I have not blogged about my experience because quite frankly I have not been able to articulate the experiences, and I do not feel as though I actually have my feet on the ground…

To say that the past few months have been a blur and a whirlwind is a serious understatement. How can multiple thoughts, feelings, emotions and knowledge all co-exist and be activated all at the same time?

I suppose that is where I should be though right?

In my weakness His strength is made perfect. In my weakness, I find myself clinging unashamedly to His hope and the cross even more. In my weakness I dare not even boast in my own ability.

One MAJOR thing that I didn’t even think about, are the enemy’s attacks. They have become more vivid and more visible than I have ever experienced them to be. The past few weeks have been filled with a variety of attacks from terrible dreams, thoughts, irritations, frustrations and physical obstructions and injuries.

Until I realised…

How could I make such a bold step for the Lord and not expect the enemy, my adversary to rage. WOW.

His obsessive preoccupation is to steal from me, to kill dreams and to destroy my life (John 10:10). He will go after any and everything, subtle and obvious. He seeks to ravage my soul with his lies and and blind me to the truth of God’s goodness and provision for my life. He seeks to convince me of failure and hardship, convince me that there is something wrong with me when in fact there is everything wrong with him.

He throws things my way all to evoke anger, jealousy, annoyance and resentment regarding many things. It is very hard and it can be discouraging. Fear creeps in. I feel lost and doubtful. As soon as my mind starts to trail onto these things he ponces on them.

I realise that I have a very real enemy as a woman who stands for the things of God and who is seeking to live His way. This enemy is a terrorist to my soul..

However he does not get the victory because my Bible tells me in 1 John 4:4, But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.

I am intentional about deciding to bat away his lies by not entertaining his deceiving thoughts that come into my mind.

Be encouraged mama…

Our responsibility is to ask the Lord to help us seek out the subtle things that the enemy goes after. For me it was the seduction and temptation to accept something into my life that will ultimately take me off track and distract me from my journey. This came in the form of discouragement and doubt.

My prayer is Lord help me to discern the enemy’s work in my life.

My weapons against him are;

The Word, praising God, continuing to walk in obedience, faith, prayer, worship, and fasting.

I realise that the greater my commitment to the Lord, the more the enemy will try to attack. Whenever there is a move into a new season of your life/work/ministry he will do all he can to wear you down with discouragement, sickness confusion, guilt, strife, fear, depression or failures. He threatens your mind, emotions, health, work, family and relationships. I realise that Abba has given me this portion to diligently engage in spiritual warfare. I cannot afford NOT TO.

2 Corinthians 10:3-5 –Though we walk in the flesh we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but they are mighty through God for the pulling down of strongholds, casting down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself above the knowledge of God, and bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.

You see when we go through things in life we have to know that it is not in our own strength to overcome. God is at work behind the scenes- even in the seemingly ugly. We must continually stand on God’s Word, and hope in Him alone. This season of my life is EPIC and I look at all the things that God is doing with me right now! Cast them down with the authority that I have been given. My life is beautiful not because of any material/outward possession.

My life is beautiful because I have Jesus Christ and He alone is my strength and hope. Forever.

Stay encouraged, be encouraged my love. Overwhelming victory is ours through Christ Jesus no matter the storm or life experience.

crop anonymous black mother holding hand of baby lying on bed

9 Hacks to help you thrive in motherhood

Published on by Alethea Awuku1 Comment

Being a mother is one of life’s most rewarding experiences, filled with joy, challenges, growth, and never ending love. When we bring our babies home, our lives are changed forever and when you weave the threads of our Christian faith into this journey, it takes on an even deeper significance.

Christian motherhood is not just about raising children; it’s about nurturing and training souls, instilling values, and guiding young hearts to know and love God and others. It’s about embodying Christ’s love and grace in every moment of our lives, whether we’re comforting a crying baby, helping children with homework, diffusing tantrums and outbursts, and encouraging anxious, frightened and insecure hearts. It is a deep work. A deeply fulfilling one and as much as we give out, we also must dig deep to fill ourselves constantly for the marathon journey.

One of my deep desires is to thrive in motherhood and to be truly happy and joyful in my home. In this post I am sharing some “hacks” to help you thrive in motherhood. These tips aren’t don’t really lean towards creating shortcuts, but rather they are methods that when implemented, help us not just live efficiently, but to enjoy our days and feel deeply fulfilled as we laser in on building a life that truly matters to us.

1. Daily journaling

Being intentional with our time can be achieved as we seek to be held accountable for the every day choices and decisions that we make. I have found that documenting my thought patterns and behaviours, and journaling through some of the experiences that I go through helps me to pinpoint areas that could use some improving, as well as celebrating the things that I enjoy about my life.

The practice of keeping a traditional hand written journal has fallen out of favour in recent years due to the influx of digital and social media/podcasts etc, however nothing can truly replace the practice of maintaining a journal.

Journaling is a deeply intimate and private thing. It is the recording of your thoughts and your heart. You write things that you would not consider to share with others on social media or in person. What I love about it, is that it is a beautiful way to explore and work through your thoughts and experiences in private.  This can be deeply impactful as you converse with yourself and God about some of your struggles, weaknesses, pain, joys, and the different experiences that you go through in life.

Using different tools and techniques to journal will help you to rediscover what makes you tick and encourages you to do more of what makes you happy. It can help to plan a schedule, write down some goals and journal about your achievements at least once a week to keep you encouraged.

2. Fill up your own well frequently

There is wisdom in filling ourselves up before we give to others. Prioritising regular “me time” for activities that recharge you can look like reading a book, taking a bath, or going for a walk. Investing in self-care is essential for maintaining balance and well-being.

As a busy mum, it is easy to spend any down time binging on things that don’t necessarily feed my soul because I feel tired and drained after a long day with my children. As relaxing as it can feel to go through a series on Netflix in one sitting, or watch countless Youtube videos, after a while I am still left feeling drained.

Finding creative ways to squeeze in things that inspire and encourage my soul has been a real intentional effort as I seek to shape and stir my mind towards things that delight and inspire me to love my home and family better. I listen to podcasts while cooking, audiobooks while taking a walk or doing the food shop, and read books/ my Bible during my morning breakfast. All of these practices help build up contentment and joy in my heart.

3. Simplify Your Wardrobe:

Creating a capsule wardrobe filled with versatile pieces that mix and match effortlessly is a big hack for us busy mums as we often have children waking up through out the night and early in the morning. Using an already tired brain to think of what to wear for the day (so I look and feel put together) can add to my stress and frustration.

I have found that taking the time to streamline my closet, and thoughtfully select pieces that I actually would love to wear has saved me time and reduced decision fatigue, leaving me feeling confident and stylish every day. Simplifying your wardrobe as a busy mum is a game-changer in the quest for efficiency and sanity! With a streamlined closet of versatile pieces, you spend less time agonising over what to wear and more time focusing on what truly matters—like tending to your family’s needs or stealing a precious moment for yourself in the morning. A simplified wardrobe means fewer decisions, less clutter, and effortless mix-and-match options that ensure you always look and feel put together, even on the most chaotic days. Sometimes, if I can get dressed quickly, I am able to steal a few moments to listen to a favourite podcast, or put some makeup on which equally makes me feel great.

4. Meal Prep

Knowing what you want the family (and yourself) to eat on most days of the week is important in helping you to not only run your home efficiently, but to beat the overwhelm that comes with not knowing what to make and having little time to make it. Having a scheduled weekly plan is a great way to organise your thoughts, allocate budget and enjoy the process of cooking for multiple people. Spend a few hours each week prepping meals and snacks to save time and make healthier choices. Batch cooking and meal planning can simplify your weeknights and ensure you always have nutritious options on hand.

Meal prepping is a lifesaver for busy moms, providing a solution to the perpetual question of “What’s for dinner?” With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can save valuable time and energy throughout the week. By dedicating a few hours on the weekend to batch cooking and putting meals together in advance, you ensure that wholesome and nutritious options are readily available for your family, even during the busiest of days. You don’t see the true value of meal planning and prepping until the week begins and you are carting back and forth to different activities. Arriving home after gymnastics and knowing that dinner is already there – it just needs to be heated up or quickly cooked is a real blessing when you have children ready to eat!

5. Learn to be present and content

This point is so important. Your intentional lifestyle will look completely different to mine. You are your own unique person with your own tastes and preferences. Your family is unique and your household rhythm is unique. How you choose to live your life and how you order your days should be unique to you.

In our wonderfully connected social and digital age, most of us spend our time drawing inspiration and motivation from so many different sources, creators and influencers. I’ve found that personally over time this becomes a big distraction for me actually being present in my own life and tending to the unique demands and needs of my own heart and that of my children and my husband. When our eyes are constantly looking “over there”, we can easily fall into the trap of comparison as well as building something that is essentially a carbon copy of someone else’s life.

Of course we can get some great suggestions and inspiration from others, but ultimately to be present in our own life journey is where the true beauty lies, and is the starting block to building a thriving experience for ourselves. We begin to learn about ourselves and those that we live with on an intimate level, and this helps us to make decisions that are uniquely ours to treasure for a life time. This truly excites me! Looking at my marriage and focusing on what my husband and I can do to improve it leads us to make intentional decisions that not only will bring us closer as a couple, but create beautiful lasting memories that fill our hearts with joy and gratitude.

Looking at my children and seeking to cater to their unique needs, personalities and interests opens up a whole new world of adventure for us as a family and that is so exciting! The possibilities to be intentional when you are present in your own life is endless!

Establishing and becoming in tune with your own rhythm and pace also frees you up to make a shift when you need to. Maybe you wake up feeling tired, or unwell, or feel like you need a change of environment. Being aware of your unique needs and lifestyle means that sometimes you can change up what you do and how you respond to your feelings and emotions so you can meet your needs in the best way possible.

6. Set Boundaries

Learn to say no to commitments that drain your time and energy, and prioritise activities that align with your values and goals. Setting boundaries is essential for protecting your well-being and maintaining balance in your life. Overscheduling the children can leave you burnt out and feeling discouraged.

Since becoming a mum, I have learnt that I don’t have to say yes to every single invitation that comes my way. With all the social events of friends combined, there is generally always something happening that you don’t want to miss out on, but if you said yes to everything by default, you would never have any time for anything else.

Learning to politely decline invitations and say no to commitments can feel very hard especially when in your heart you want to celebrate with all your loved ones. However being intentional with our time means that we should be able to say no to free up some space just as confidently as we say yes. Recently the boys were invited to a family outing and I felt that it was going to tip me over the edge after an intensely busy week. I was tired and needed a moment to just sit, breathe and reset. In declining to attend, I was able to redeem an afternoon of just what I needed – a little bit of space.

Being intentional is a gift and I am learning to use it without feeling guilty. If declining invitations feels really difficult and unnatural for you, a good first step may be to wait for 24/48 hours before replying to an invitation. This gives you some space to be thoughtful in weighing up your options, feelings and alternatives before responding.

Always remember that you have the freedom and power to fill up or create space in your schedule as you wish. Intentionality is a gift given to us because our time is on earth is precious.

7. Invest in good friendships

Nurture meaningful connections with friends, family, and loved ones by scheduling regular quality time together. Cultivating strong relationships enriches your life and provides vital support during both good times and bad. It is so much harder to do in the season of mothering little children, but connecting with even just one other mother in a good healthy relationship can be such an encouragement and fuel for your journey. Cultivating good friendships as a busy mum is not just a luxury but a necessity for maintaining balance and well-being.

These relationships serve as a vital support systems, providing understanding, encouragement, and a listening ear during the ups and downs of motherhood. By surrounding yourself with like-minded friends who understand the joys and challenges of parenting, you create a safe space to share experiences, seek advice, and find solace in solidarity. Good friendships also offer opportunities for laughter, relaxation, and rejuvenation, helping you recharge and replenish your emotional reserves. In essence, investing in friendships is a powerful hack for navigating and persevering on the journey of motherhood! I am an introvert and I have had to step out of my comfort zone to nurture this area of my life because it is just important.

8. Continuous Learning

You don’t have to hide or disappear under a rug now that you are a mother. Make a habit of learning something new every day, whether it’s through reading, podcasts, online courses, or workshops. Lifelong learning keeps your mind sharp, expands your horizons, and opens up new opportunities for personal and professional growth.

As a busy mum, it’s all too easy to let the demands of parenthood overshadow our own dreams and aspirations. However, it’s crucial not to give up on those dreams! Seasonally, we may not be able to put our efforts into everything, and it’s important to accept this as a reality of being a mother. However with a little creativity, planning with our spouses and support, we can still keep connected to the things that we enjoy.

Pursuing our passions and ambitions not only enriches our lives but can also set a powerful example for our children. By carving out a little time for personal growth and fulfillment, we fill up our own tanks, and feel refreshed to pour out to our families. Pursuing some of our dreams allows us to maintain a sense of identity and purpose outside of motherhood, fostering a greater sense of fulfillment and happiness in the long run.

9. Practice graciousness to yourself

Cultivate a spirit of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness towards yourself and others. Motherhood comes with its share of challenges, and it’s easy to fall into the trap of self-criticism and perfectionism. So many things are left undone and unsaid each and everyday and when we dwell on this alone, we can become incredibly discouraged and burdened with guilt and inadequacy.

Embracing grace allows us to let go of perfectionism, embrace imperfection, and live with greater ease and joy. Giving yourself grace mama looks like this: acknowledging that you’re doing the best you can in the circumstances, and that it’s okay to include self-care and rest when it is needed. It’s a powerful hack for combating burnout, reducing stress, and creating a greater sense of peace and contentment in our roles as mothers. So, let go of unrealistic expectations and embrace the beauty of imperfection, knowing that you’re enough, just as you are.

Now take take these points, apply them and go thrive!

If no one has told you today, I’ll be the first to say YOU’RE AMAZING!

Alethea x

a cup of tea beside an open book with stem of green leaves

5 Practical Ways To Be Content

Published on by Alethea Awuku1 Comment


As a Christian homeschooling mother, being content in raising my children and embracing our own unique family journey is essential if I am to nurture a joyful and fulfilling home environment, as well as be at peace personally. I’ll be honest- I am not always content, and I don’t always feel like being content. However I recognise that it is crucial to learn how to embrace contentment if I am going to thrive in this chapter and season of my life. Paul says in Philippians 4:11-13 “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances”.

Finding contentment as a mother and woman is an area that we have to hold focus on because God has blessed us with so much, even when we are going through difficult seasons. I have found that when I shut my eyes and ears to the noise of the world and tune into my own life and the journey that God has me on, contentment grows in my heart. I am satisfied with what I have, who I am, and where I am going. Here are some practical steps that we can take to cultivate contentment and enjoyment, whatever season we find ourselves in.

1. Ground Ourselves in Faith

Our spiritual tanks run on empty, flashing red – a warning sign that if we do not fill up immediately, we will dry up, die out, and grow weary. The amount of time we invest into our spiritual lives is just not enough. We can never have too much of God. He is our anchor, foundation and hope. Yet if I am honest, with how busy my days are, I am often left feeling so tired physically tired that it is sometimes a challenge to reach towards things that will build me up in faith. Yet that is exactly where we need to be at all times during the day. If having lengthy moments to fill up your spiritual tank is just not possible and feels too overwhelming, then take it in bite sized portions.

Start each day with prayer and scripture reading for a few minutes as this will set the tone for the day. Listen to short podcasts, Youtube clips, audiobooks or songs throughout the day. All of these things help to keep our spiritual lives pumping as we face different things each day. Trusting God is believing that He loves us, He is good, He has the power to help us, He wants to help us, and He will help us. Settle your heart on this truth daily and you’ll soon realise contentment and gratitude growing within you.

2. Embrace Flexibility

This isn’t always easy but necessary because life is a journey filled with ups and downs, twists and turns. Embracing flexibility gives room for spontaneity. As a type A person, I don’t typically do well in this area as I enjoy structure and predictability. However, it is true that embracing flexibility helps us to let go of rigid expectations and enjoy the unique opportunities that arise each day.

So what are some practical ways to do this in order to be content? Well, in all your planning, don’t forget to build-in flexibility, allowing room for adjustments as needed. Secondly, mindfulness practices such as meditation on the Word or deep breathing helps us to stay focused on the present moment and reduces anxiety about the future. Varying our routines every now and then helps to introduce variety in our lives and helps us to become more comfortable with change.

3. Focus on Relationships

The backbone of society and family life is built upon the quality of relationships between us humans. One of the wonderful things that God has given us is the ability to form deep bonds that transcend time. Prioritising building strong relationships with our children, spouses and friends helps to create opportunities for meaningful connections which fill up our contentment bucket daily. It takes intentional work, but the output of this work truly enriches our lives.

We can build this area of our lives down by slowing down, and taking stock of the people in our lives. Write down a list of all these special people and what they mean to you and you’ll instantly realise how blessed you are. Then have a think about how you can increase or deepen your bond with them Some examples are quality time spent together, heartfelt conversations, and shared experiences. Investing in relationships fosters a sense of closeness and unity that enhances our journey in this life and if we can find our people and build consistent healthy interactions, we’ll add several more bricks to our house of contentment and gratitude.

4. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection

One of the big causes of discontentment is when we are so laser focused on perfection, that it blinds us from seeing and appreciating our progress in life no matter how small. As mothers, we try to be conscious of this for our children, but not so much for ourselves. Celebrating progress rather than perfection is an important mindset shift that can lead to greater satisfaction and motivation in our lives. Remember that perfection is elusive and ever changing based upon our ever shifting goal posts. Here are some practical ways (bullet pointed) to celebrate your progress and build contentment in this area of your life.

  • Create a Success List: Maintain a list of your accomplishments and add to it regularly! Even the tiniest things… Review it periodically to remind yourself of how far you’ve come. It’s progress!
  • Celebrate Milestones: Celebrate reaching milestones with small rewards or activities you enjoy, such as a favorite meal, drink, walk, snack etc. It motivates our brain to keep going and keeps us encouraged.
  • Regular Reflection: Take time to reflect on your journey in a specific area of your life and the progress you’ve made. Consider what you’ve learned and how you’ve grown. This encourages gratitude.
  • Positive Self-Talk: Replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations that recognise your efforts and progress. It may feel difficult and strange but stick to it. Write it down if it helps and place the affirmations in a place you know you’ll see them everyday. Positive talk and practicing self compassion takes practice.
  • Forgive Mistakes: Accept that mistakes are part of the learning process and don’t dwell on them. Use them as opportunities for growth, and be grateful that you have had the opportunity to do better.

5. Practice Self-Care

Contentment can feel very difficult to reach for sometimes when we are simply burnt out or tired to the bone. Including personal renewal in our schedules helps to recharge and rejuvenate our minds, bodies, and spirit. Set aside time for activities that nourish your own soul, such as prayer, meditation, reading, or pursuing hobbies and interests. Taking care of yourself (even in small ways) allows you to show up fully present and engaged in your role- specifically for me as a homeschooling mother to three boys.

Self care and time for renewal looks different for us all, and the most important thing to remember is that you have to honour who you are and what fills your tank. By leaning into this authentically, you create and consistently build a foundation of well-being that supports a more content and fulfilling life.

Here are some Bible scriptures that I hope will encourage you on your journey of contentment.

Do Not Worry Matthew 6:25

Seek God First Matthew 6:32–33

I hope this has been helpful.

God Bless,

Alethea

basket with vegetables on stool in kitchen

The Power of your grocery list

Published on by Alethea Awuku1 Comment

In the whirlwind of busy mum life, where time is of the essence and distractions abound, staying efficient and focused is a crucial skill that all of us mums need! Whether it’s juggling work, family, or personal commitments, mastering efficiency can make all the difference, and one seemingly simple yet profoundly effective tool in the arsenal of efficiency? The humble grocery list that we carry in our heads or on a piece of paper each time we go to the supermarket.

Whether you are are a prepper and have your list ready days before you go out, or you are a last minute scrambler, having something to refer to is so helpful when you you face an overwhelming amount of options on the shop floor. If you haven’t realised the power of a grocery list, you’re in for a treat because in today’s blog post, I delve into why making grocery lists is more than just a mundane chore, but an effective strategy in saving our time, money, and mental bandwidth!

Organisation Leads to Efficiency

As busy mums, who have our hands full with different priorities, being organised in the area of food shopping can relieve stress and anxiety when it comes to meal prepping for the family. At its core, creating a grocery list acts as a blueprint and guide for our shopping trips. It’s a curated selection of items we need, neatly organised to streamline our visit to the store. By taking a few minutes to jot down what you require before you set foot in the aisles, you’re essentially creating a roadmap that prevents aimless wandering, unnecessary backtracking and impulse purchasing. More often than not, grocery lists help us stay within the range of our budget which is also a win! I know that I am less reluctant to pick up that cute top in Sainsbury’s when I know that I came in specifically to purchase and tick off the 5 items that are on my list. If I do pick up the top, I accept that it is an extra £15 that I have added to the budget! A list helps to train us in the habit of living within our means, as well as moving with purpose and efficiency.

Minimising Distractions and Impulse Buys

In keep with my earlier point, have you ever walked into a supermarket intending to pick up a few essentials and walked out with a cart full of items you didn’t need? It’s a scenario many of us are familiar with. I then spend a few minutes when I get home trying to hide some of my purchases from my husband! (ha). Without a list to anchor your shopping trip, it’s all too easy to succumb to impulse buys triggered by enticing displays or hunger pangs (I have heard it said that you should never go to the supermarket when you are hungry because you’ll make bad decisions lol).

However, with a list in hand, you’re less likely to veer off course. You know exactly what you came for, helping you stay focused and resist the temptation of unnecessary purchases. This not only saves you money but also time spent deliberating over items you could do without. When I go to the supermarket with my sons, they are given their own shopping lists (as I am training them to be involved) and we are teaching them that the purpose of the list is to help them stay as self controlled as possible.

Maximising Efficiency in Meal Planning

A well-crafted grocery list goes hand in hand with meal planning, another cornerstone of efficiency in the kitchen and home. By strategising your meals for the week and compiling a corresponding list of ingredients, you eliminate the need for last-minute dashes to the store or frantic searches through your cupboards. Instead, you can approach your cooking and planning with intentionality and confidence. In most cases, you can also save some money because if you purchase the exact ingredients need for your meals, everything else then becomes “extra”- and extra is optional, which means it can be omitted from the list for that week.

Empowers Healthy Choices

We are always looking at ways to encourage and maintain a balanced diet for our families and here, a grocery list can be a powerful ally. By outlining your meals and snacks in advance, you’re better equipped to make thoughtful, nutritious choices at the store. Rather than succumbing to the allure of convenience foods or unhealthy snacks (que chocolate and crisps), your list guides you towards more wholesome options that align with your dietary goals. In this way, a grocery list becomes more than just a tool for efficiency; it’s a tool for self-care and well-being. I love this!

Harness Technology for Added Efficiency

In today’s digital age, the traditional pen-and-paper grocery list has evolved to encompass a variety of digital tools and apps designed to enhance efficiency. From smartphone apps that allow you to create and share lists with family members to meal planning platforms that generate shopping lists based on your chosen recipes, technology offers a wealth of resources to streamline the grocery shopping process.

If you have a smart phone, you can create easy lists easily. We use Google Keep, Excel spreadsheets and Apple Notes, and at times I have used spreadsheets to monitor the prices of staple groceries that we purchase every week. By harnessing these tools, you can take your efficiency to the next level, leveraging the power of technology to simplify and optimise your shopping experience. It also saves on waste as you don’t have to carry and throw away pieces of paper.

While it may seem like a small detail in the grand scheme of things, the act of making a grocery list can really help us become more efficient, organised and focus which we always want more of as busy mums! It can sometimes feel tedious to make one but by embracing this simple yet effective tool, you can save time, money, and mental energy, allowing you to approach the task of grocery shopping with clarity and purpose. So the next time you embark on a trip to the store, take a moment to craft your list—it might just be the key to unlocking a more efficient and enjoyable shopping experience.

What do you think of grocery lists? Hit or miss for you? Have you found it to be helpful relieving stress or frustration concerning food shopping?