2021 Year End Review by Black New Orleans Moms

A few of our moms answered questions to reflect on 2021 and what’s to come for 2022 as we walk into the new year.

Lynn-

• What is the biggest lesson you learned in your motherhood journey this year?

Have a plan but also have contingency plans and also I started teaching my kids about financial planning and wealth management by earning their own money and saving it.

• How has 2021 been different in regards to parenting?

The pandemic has made me more vigilant about the spread of viruses. We have been more conscious about washing our hands and wearing masks.

• What are some personal/ professional goals for the upcoming year?

Personal goal of working more in the community and professional goal of getting recertified in Human Resources and Payroll.

• What is your biggest hope for the New Orleans community for 2022?

I hope the community will continue to work together but also become proactive as it relates to climate change, poverty and education. Building resourceful organizations like The Black New Orleans Moms is one example of our way to be proactive within the community.

Leonis-

•How has 2021 been different in regards to parenting?

2021 really put a lot into perspective about how much internal stress our kids go through, especially during COVID and Hurricane Ida, and how our responses to them helps or hinders them in processing that stress in appropriate ways.

•As it relates to motherhood, what are some things you did differently in 2021 that you have not done yet?

I’ve been much more mindful than I’ve ever been of keeping my cool and empathizing with them during hard times. I stop to think “if I were In his shoes, what would I need from a parent right now? What would actually be helpful?”

•What are some personal/ professional goals for the upcoming year?

I want to become more intentional and professional about my blog and content creating business. I’ve been treating it as a side hobby so it’s been performing as a side hobby. I’m going to financially and professionally invest in myself and boss up in 2022!

•What is your biggest hope for the New Orleans community for 2022?

My most realistic hope that NOLA is able to continue to make the right decisions regarding COVID-19 mandates in 2022, so we can see an upward trend in employment and overall health within our community.

Jaemi-

• What is the biggest lesson you learned in your motherhood journey this year?

I learned to take control of my time and focus on investing it into what matters the most, being present for my children.

• How has 2021 been different in regards to parenting?

In 2021 breastfeeding is on the rise: Technology-based support such as telehealth and tutoring is in demand; Parents are having more open and honest conversations with themselves and their children.

• What are some personal/ professional goals for the upcoming year?

My goal for the upcoming year is to focus on the things that bring joy to my life.

• What is your biggest hope for the New Orleans community for 2022?

My biggest hope for 2022 is the New Orleans community will begin to focus on supporting and empowering Black Mothers and create more entertainment outlets for youth in the city.