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Overcoming Anxiety and Depression as a Parent: Embracing Local Adventures Like the DC Zoo
Being a parent means going through an emotional roller-coaster filled with joy, challenges, and at times, overwhelming emotions. For parents dealing with anxiety and depression, thoughts of venturing out can be daunting. However, local adventures such as a visit to the DC Zoo may prove to be just the thing to take one’s mind off the daily grind of household chores and errands, producing mental and emotional benefits in return. Here is how you will be able to fight anxiety and depression out as a parent through the local attraction: the DC Zoo. The healing power of nature and animals can improve your mental health. There is something very inherently…
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Finding Strength in Vulnerability: My Last Days at Artscape
My time at Artscape this year was a roller coaster of emotions and experiences. Days two and three were completely different from the first day, and I learned a lot about resilience, community, and the power of vulnerability. The first day at Artscape was challenging. People walked by, looked through my art, and left. I’ve been in spaces like this before, but the sheer number of people doing it this time threw me off. It was disheartening and left me questioning my work and my place in the art community. Feeling overwhelmed, I shared a vulnerable moment on social media about how I was feeling. Read more about Why I…
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20 Ways a lactation advocate could celebrate National Lactation Month: Big or gently
World Breastfeeding Month, observed throughout August, is dedicated to promoting and supporting breastfeeding on a global scale. It encompasses World Breastfeeding Week, celebrated from August 1 to 7, which was established by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) to raise awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding and the need for support systems for breastfeeding mothers. During this month-long observance, various activities, events, and initiatives are organized worldwide to educate the public about the health benefits of breastfeeding for both babies and mothers, encourage communities and workplaces to support breastfeeding mothers, advocate for policies that protect and promote breastfeeding, and celebrate the efforts of breastfeeding mothers and advocates. The goal…
- Events and Workshops, Exploring Motherhood with Art Blog, Life of a Creative Mind, Mental Health & Motherhood
Why I Failed at Artscape 2024: A Niche Artist in the Rain
Artscape is an annual outdoor arts festival that celebrates creativity and talent from various disciplines. Held in open spaces, it draws a diverse audience eager to explore unique artworks and performances. However, participating in an outdoor event like Artscape presents challenges, especially when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Here are six reasons why I didn’t make a dime the first day. Pre-Event Damage A significant portion of my non-lactation or birth-related artwork was damaged before the event even started. I didn’t wrap these paintings properly, and the result was heartbreaking: the paintings rubbed against each other causing scrapes. This oversight cost me a balanced-looking setup. It’s important to carefully pack up…
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Finding Strength in Vulnerability: My Last Days at Artscape
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20 Affirmations for parents who are feeling touched out
I see you, and I know how hard you’re working. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed and touched out. Being constantly needed can be exhausting, and it’s okay to admit that. Your feelings are valid, and you’re not alone. It’s important to acknowledge your own needs and give yourself permission to take a break. Prioritizing self-care doesn’t make you any less of a loving parent; in fact, it makes you stronger. Take a moment to breathe, to find some peace, and to recharge. You deserve rest and relaxation. Set boundaries when you need to, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. It’s okay to step back and allow yourself a…
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My Path to Birth Art
I’ve always wanted to be an artist. My art journey began in elementary school, leading me to Loch Raven Academy, a magnet school for art. Art was an integral part of my childhood, and I was fortunate to have family members who encouraged me to explore my creativity from an early age. I have fond memories of my grandmother taking me to the art store and spending hundreds of dollars on art supplies to support my passion. In high school, I was excited about going to college. Everyone around me seemed to believe that college was the only way to grow and succeed. I latched onto the idea of attending…
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Finding Strength in Vulnerability: My Last Days at Artscape
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The Art of Tandem Nursing: Celebrating Motherhood and Lactation
I am dedicated to creating artwork that celebrates mothers and all lactating individuals. My pieces often focus on the deep connection and unique bond that lactation fosters. Today, I am excited to share with you three of my favorite tandem nursing paintings, each capturing the beauty, strength, and emotional depth of this remarkable practice. “Tandem Nursing with Love” beautifully captures the intimate and powerful moment of tandem nursing, where a mother simultaneously breastfeeds two of her children. The mother, with a serene and joyous expression, looks down at her infants with love and contentment. The older child, nestled close, gazes back at the viewer with a curious and secure demeanor,…
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Backyard BaseCamp Mural
I remember the moment we decided that they were ready for summer camp. Like many parents, I wanted them to interact with other kids during the summer, make friends outside of school, and create lasting memories. But finding the right camp was a challenge. Many were expensive and felt like just another building where kids would sit around all day. The first camp we visited was disappointing. It felt more like a school or a cold daycare than a place for adventure. I thought, “If we send them here, they might as well just stay home and play with Legos.” We were searching for something special—a camp that could reshape…
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Lauren meets with First Lady of Maryland, Dawn Moore
My first experience at Artscape, Baltimore’s largest outdoor arts festival, was truly memorable. This festival, initially designed as an Arts Fair, has evolved into a celebration of Baltimore’s cultural richness and creative spirit. What made it unforgettable was that I had the honor of meeting Dawn Moore, Maryland’s First Lady. As an artist, doula, and advocate for black maternal health, my art serves as a medium for storytelling and advocacy. It sheds light on the challenges faced by black families during childbirth and calls for change. Meeting Dawn Moore, a passionate advocate for the arts, was a highlight of my Artscape experience. Our conversation delved into the heart of my…
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Finding Strength in Vulnerability: My Last Days at Artscape
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Celebrating Sunny & his family
In memory of baby Sunny, a beautiful painting was created that captures the deep love and connection between him and his family. The painting shows baby Sunny wrapped in a hospital blanket and held by his big sister. His mother embraces both of her children in a tender moment. This painting is not just a work of art but a powerful symbol of grief, love, and healing. It honors baby Sunny’s memory and acknowledges the deep impact he had on his family’s lives, no matter how brief his time on earth was. Many families who have experienced a loss find comfort in creating art that honors their baby’s memory. This…
