Get to know The Kid President - Self appointed voice of a generation

Our nation is led by a man globally considered the most intelligent and charismatic world leader of the century. Highly recognizable and admired by many, we all know President Barack Obama. But have you had the pleasure of being acquainted with the pint sized, self appointed POTUS? Meet Robbie Novak, aka Kid President - the HKIC (Head Kid In Charge). 

Since late 2012 Kid President and his team www.soulpancake.com, a group of viral video virtuosos, have started a blog and posted a series of inspirational videos on a mission to "make the world less boring". The ten year old hailing from Henderson, TX has become a YouTube sensation. There is no denying the lovable comedian and motivational speaker. From his tiny oval office he reminds us of the candid wisdom found in children's observations of the world. His age appropriate outbursts ("Not cool Robert Frost!") resonate with messages that can motivate all those who are young at heart from ages 2 to 102. Visit his blog at www.kidpresident.com/

Adding impact to his mission to inspire, Robbie was born with a condition called Osteogenesis Imperfecta, or "Brittle Bone syndrome". Yet, his spirit is unbreakable and optimism shines through in every address. He is the son of David, Freed-Hardeman University staff member, and Laurie Novak. The videos are produced by Robbie's uncle, Brad Montague, who directs the university’s efforts in social media. Take 3 minutes and do yourself a service. Watch my favorite, his breakout video, below. 

A Pep Talk from Kid President to You

All hail the child chief! Let's rally around this young man on his quest to follow "the road that leads to awesome".  Just this week President Obama asked Kid President to help spread the word about the lottery for tickets to the Annual White House Easter Egg Roll. Check it out and register before February 25, 2013 at 10am. 

Help Get Your Favorite Blogger (yours truly) Published with Babble.com

Hi Mommy-Morphosis Readers!

I need your help for a chance to get published with Babble.com, a wonderful parenting website that has been on the forefront of promoting the best Mom and Dad writers in the blogosphere. Recently they have launched a campaign to "Help Get Your Favorite Blogger Published".  Babble and Hyperion’s panel of editors will choose which blog posts to invite to publish, based on editorial quality and suitability of topic — they are looking for that certain “it” factor that makes a blog post really special. 

Being published would be an honor and help me take MommyMorphosis to the next level. I've been searching for ways to turn my writing hobby into a business - this could be the perfect opportunity! Please think back to your favorite post from my blog and find a few moments to nominate it for the Babble editors.  

Visit http://www.babble.com/mom/best-of-blogs-campaign/nominate-a-post/

Thank you in advance for this and your continued support!

Deanna aka ShoMommy

www.mommymorphosis.blogspot.com

Nigel's Kids Lit Picks for Black History Month: Hip Hop Speaks to Children: A celebration of poetry with a beat. Edited by Nikki Giovanni

Every February our nation celebrates the achievements of African Americans during Black History Month. Though I aim to expose my children to the rich, multicultural history of the US year round, a BHM bonus for kids is enhanced school curriculum and special events. I thought it might be fun for my 5 year old son Nigel to pick a few books about African American history from our local library branch, but he was only marginally excited. When I suggested he help me write a new blog post about his favorite books his enthusiasm grew. I was a little disappointed that our branch did not have a display of kids picks; it took a while for us to find our picks for the project. There were quite a few books about well know African American individuals, but I didn't think biographies would hold his interest. We opted instead to look for titles that highlighted lesser known innovators, artistic contributions and offered an age appropriate overview of the civil rights movement. Below is one of our favorite selections. Keep up with the blog for more book reviews coming soon!


Hip Hop Speaks to Children: A celebration of poetry with a beat. Edited by Nikki Giovanni

I've been reading Nigel poetry since he was a baby. My appreciation for the art form began in grade school; I remember my own introductions to Gwendolyn Brooks, Lansgton Hughes, Paul Laurence Dunbar and Gil Scott Heron. I loved the ebb and flow, the sway of the rhythmic words. I'm also a fan of many musical genres, especially Hip Hop and Neo Soul. Artists like Queen Latifa, Tupac and Lauryn Hill are poets in their own right, setting their prose to pulsating beats. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree so naturally, just like his ShoMommy, Nigel loves verses, rhymes and music of all kinds. Nikki Giovanni has compiled more than 50 selections from talented writers and lyricists.  A CD is included which features poems like "People Equal", "We Wear The Masks", "A Negro Speaks of Rivers" and Ego Trippin" to vibrant beats. It makes the art form come alive. This got my boy very excited. He was interested in the lives of the poets now. We listened and read along with the book. We talked about the Harlem Renaissance and researched the origins of Hip Hop. Most of the musical selections included are not set to music, so we made our own. We took turns playing his drumset and performing. He LOVED Mos Def's "Umi Says" so we found the song on my Ipod. The last track, an excerpt from MLK's "I Have A Dream" speech, really blew his mind. He couldn't believe it was Dr. King's real voice! I could go on and on about this book, but in short it is a great way to introduce your children to poetry and a variety of music including quality hip hop, jazz and blues. It initiates conversation about rhymes, rhythms, new vocabulary and other literary concepts. After we finished the book and CD Nigel spouted rhymes, scatted and be-bopped the rest of the day.

Eat Real Food! 5 Ways to Avoid GMO - Say No To Genetically Modified Products

I am no expert on diet and nutrition, but like most parents, my family's health is important to me. By providing a balanced diet and home cooked meals I do the best I can to make sure my children eat fresh foods and avoid junk as much as possible. If you're like me, you may think you're doing the right things, but instead be all wrong. We cannot afford to take for granted that the food we purchase and feed our families will nourish them. In fact, scientific research is finding that the consequences of being an uninformed consumer can lead to chronic illness, cancer or worse. My eyes were opened after a dinner party conversation with a Mom friend who is a nutritionist. She shared her thoughts on Genetically Modified (GM) food products and encouraged me to do my own research. I'm just scratching the surface, but felt compelled to share what I've learned so far with my family, friends and readers.

In recent years nutrition has been highlighted as a critical defense against the rising number of overweight and inactive children, particularly in America. In February 2010, First Lady Michelle Obama announced the Healthy Food Financing Initiative, a multi-million dollar public and private investment to improve access to healthy food. The President’s 2012 Budget proposes funding for the initiative to increase the availability of affordable, healthy foods in underserved urban and rural communities. In middle class areas the demand for organic products has grown. Systemically activists have lobbied for healthier lunchroom offerings and for fruits to be included in fast food kid's meals. Food producers have been urged to label food honestly and be transparent with consumers. You'd think we're on the way to ensuring people are fueling their bodies with food that enhances their lives. Sadly, just as strides have been made to improve our collective health by changing how we eat, science and big business has been altering much of what we ingest.

The existence of genetically modified organisms (GMO) is not a secret. However, many people are simply unaware, or don't fully understand how dangerous these mutated foods can be to ourselves and our children. GMOs are plants or animals created through the gene splicing techniques of biotechnology (also called genetic engineering). GMOs have had specific changes introduced into their DNA by genetic engineering techniques. This experimental technology merges DNA from different species, creating unstable combinations of plant, animal, bacterial and viral genes that cannot occur in nature or in traditional crossbreeding. Despite biotech industry promises, none of the GMO traits currently on the market offer increased yield, drought tolerance, enhanced nutrition, or any other consumer benefit. Meanwhile, a growing body of evidence connects GMOs with health problems, environmental damage and violation of farmers’ and consumers’ rights.

Continue reading below to find 5 ways to avoid GMO foods and learn more about the subject.

1. Shop Local, Know Your Grocer!
Patronize your local Farmer's Market or Independent Grocer as much as possible. Buy fresh food, especially produce grown near where you live. It's tastes better, is better for you and supports the local economy. A weekend trip to your local farmer's market can be lots of fun for your entire family. Sample tasty treats that your children will surely enjoy. Beyond the green stuff, you can find delicious hummus, salsa, cheese, bread and more. Pick up a few bunches of pretty flowers to brighten your day and decorate your dining room table. If you need more reasons follow this link http://www.crescentcityfarmersmarket.org/index.php?page=why-buy-local

Become a regular at Whole Foods and Trader Joe's. Whole Foods Market and 365 brands are non-GMO and all of Trader Joe’s store brand products are Non-GMO. Both companies have statements on GM ingredients on their website. If you are not able to, or, prefer to shop at other grocery stores do your research. Many have statements about their GM ingredients online. Visit the website of your favorite big box stores and investigate. If you can't find info online many list an email address where you can send questions about their philosophies, practices and the quality of brands they stock.


2. Buy Organic or Store Brand Products
By now we've learned that it's most healthful to buy organic produce, meats and dairy products. Organic fruits and vegetables are chemical free and organic meats come from animals that are raised in humane environments on organic feed - without any antibiotics or growth hormones. However, the higher price of organic food leaves many people either unwilling or unable to purchase it regularly. What you might not realize is that many supermarkets now have private label (generic) organic brands to choose from, and a few notable chains have removed GMO ingredients from some or all of their non-organic private label products. Store-brand products are often a great way to purchase non-GMO and USDA Certified Organic products in the supermarket as they are often much less expensive than the national brands.
You may keep an eye open for items with the “Non-GMO Project Verified” seal. The seal indicates that the product has gone through a specific verification process. Find out what criteria is used to determine food safety for the seal at http://www.nongmoproject.org/learn-more/understanding-our-seal/


3. Avoid At-Risk Ingredients
The seven most prevalent GMO crops—soy, corn, cottonseed, canola, Hawaiian papaya, and a small amount of zucchini and yellow crook neck squash—look just like their naturally grown counterparts. Most GM ingredients eaten by US consumers are in the form of products made from corn and soybeans and used in processed foods. GMO sweetener aspartame is a big one too. Aspartame is created in part by GM microorganisms and is found in over 6000 products, including soft drinks, gum, candy, desserts and mixes, yogurt, tabletop sweeteners, and some pharmaceuticals such as vitamins and sugar-free cough drops.
*Novel products such as seedless watermelons, pear/apple combos and tangelos are products of natural breeding and are not genetically engineered.

4. There's An App For That!
When you're on the go and need help avoiding GMOs just download some easy tools to help you make healthy choices and fill your grocery cart with the right stuff. Check out these mobile device apps that can assist you in steering clear of GMOs: The True Food Shoppers’ Guide to Avoiding GMOs, Don't Eat That, ShopNoGMO and Non GMO Project Shopping Guide.

5. Get To Know Monsanto Co.

Monsanto Company is a publicly traded American multinational agricultural biotechnology corporation headquartered in Creve Coeur, Missouri, website is www.monsanto.com/ Monsanto was among the first to genetically modify a plant cell and in 1987 began to conduct field trials of genetically modified crops. Before it turned to seed technology, Monsanto was primarily a purveyor of chemicals, including Agent Orange herbicide blamed for widespread health problems during its use by the military in the Vietnam War. Then there was an Alabama plant closed in 1972, where Monsanto made polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, chemicals later banned for being linked to a range of health problems. Currently, as a single company, Monsanto supplies nearly all genetically modified traits commonly used in crops, which it licenses to it's rivals for sale in their own seeds. We're talking big, big business. As of January 8, 2013 the company's sales grew 21 percent to $2.9 billion in their first quarter, with most of the increase coming from the company's corn seed business, especially due to expansion in Latin America. In fairness, Monsanto claims it's crop engineering has a non-profit arm in that they can help feed millions of hungry people around the world. Nutritionists, scientists and humanitarian activists vigorously disagree. An interesting editorial on Monsanto's anti-hunger platform here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/john-robbins/gmo-food_b_914968.html

* Bonus Tip! Serve Up Super Foods!
We've "talked" a lot about what not to eat in this post. So what foods should we add to our family's meals? Try a variety of documented Superfoods, foods rich in phytochemicals. Phytochemicals can reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer, reduce inflammation, strengthen the immune system, or in some other way contribute to a person being healthier. Blueberries, pomegranates, wild omega-3-rich fish, garlic, onion, curry spice, whole grains, olive oil, walnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, red grapes, peppers, crucifers (broccoli, kale, cabbage), tomatoes, quinoa, kiwi, natural yogurt (kefir), sweet potatoes, avocado and dark chocolate are just a few to incorporate into your diet for an extra nutritional boost.

We are not yet living in the age of the bionic man or woman, but genetically altered fruits, vegetables even salmon seem to be here to stay. I am now committed to learning all I can about GMOs and the effects they have on our bodies, our environment and the global economy. I'll be the first to admit that I'm not the greenest girl on the block, but it's becoming clear that if I am not more cautious about food selection I could be putting my family at risk. As I acquire more meaningful information I promise to share it with my audience. In the meantime visit some of the websites below!

http://www.nongmoproject.org/

http://www.truefoodnow.org

http://www.nongmoshoppingguide.com/

Full Length Research Study - Long term toxicity of a Roundup herbicide and a Roundup-tolerant
genetically modified maize http://research.sustainablefoodtrust.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Final-Paper.pdf

Information on California's Prop 37 vote which would requires labeling of food sold to consumers made from plants or animals with genetic material changed in specified ways. Prohibits marketing such food, or other processed food, as “natural. http://www.carighttoknow.org/

The Christmas Spirit of Sharing and using Kwanzaa Principles to "Be the Gift" in the New Year

Christmas becomes a larger than life event when you have children. Eager to see the fruits of their good behavior, kids get more anxious as each month passes and December 25th nears. Lists are made, elves sit atop shelves and mantles as pint sized consumers hope for the newest toys, dolls and big ticket gadgets. I've become increasingly bothered by how wrapped up my almost six year old son has become in "getting". He's a sweet, compassionate boy, but sometimes when there are presents to be had he loses his manners and becomes a greedy little person I barely recognize! My toddler isn't a concern yet, it's a bit ridiculous to expect tact and selflessness from a two year old. She could careless about gifts now and busies herself with boxes and wrapping paper. But, she adores her big brother and is sure to pick up his behaviors as she ages. I watched my son tear open scores of presents and though he was polite, I could tell he wanted more. He was ready to take, take, take and though he'd gotten everything he asked for, he compared how many gifts he'd received to other children in the family. As a parent, I was uncomfortable, and I knew it was up to my husband and I to curtail such self indulgence. Though I want him to be happy, I've vowed to find someway to avoid spoiling my child to the point he becomes an ingrate.


Responsible parents might find it hard to help their little ones understand the reason for the holiday season, aside from commercial hysteria. I've played around with the notion that the kids should pick three gifts for Christmas; plus a fourth to donate to charity. Baby Jesus received gold, frankincense and myrrh - that should be enough for my little prince and princess! My husband has yet to get on board with this concept, Daddy loves the smiles that lots of presents bring. I'm hoping that maybe down the line as the children get older, more mature, we can make it a new tradition. I've also been hinting that they ask for cool, unique experiences versus material goods. Family vacations, music lessons, tickets to kid's stage plays, overnights in museums, etc... Beginning right away I've opted to simply talk to my child about his attitude. I've managed to spark a few conversations about the Nativity, giving and thankfulness. Of course, it's natural for a kid to love Christmas and pray for Mom and Dad to partner with Santa in showering them with their heart's every desire. But, as parents we have to set reasonable boundaries and expectations for graciousness. We have to teach those lessons in spirit, in talk and in action. I want him to have a greater understanding of Jesus Christ and our faith. I want him to enjoy opening his presents, but also delight in seeing friends and family receive what they've wished for. I want him to know that giving or receiving love, time and smiles can be better than anything money can buy. I've made it my mandate for the new year to grow with my children spiritually, so that next year they can celebrate Christmas with a humble heart and greater understanding of why the holiday is more than gifts under the Christmas tree, bright lights and gingerbread cookies.


All December Nigel has been learning about holiday traditions in school. He's studied the history of Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa. Of course, being African American, he's had lots of questions about Kwanzaa for me. I haven't actively observed the week long holiday in many years, but growing up as an adolescent and preteen, my extended family in Ohio celebrated annually. Given my new dedication to growing his faith and spirituality I thought it'd be nice to teach him about Dr. Maulana Karenga, the seven Kwanzaa principles (Nguzo Saba) and why it's taken hold within the African American community. Everyday we've learned a new Swahili principle and discussed it's meaning using vocabulary that he can understand. The concepts are clear and it can be fun practicing terms in a new language. The exercise is helping me teach my son that while Christmas is a time to celebrate the birth of our savior Jesus Christ and exchange gifts with loved ones; Kwanzaa is a time to reflect about how he can "be the gift" to his family, community and our world. Instead of receiving presents daily, at the end of Imani - the seventh day, we will buy a complete Kwanzaa observance kit with a Kinara, Mishumaa Saba and Mkeka in preparation for next year. The Kwanzaa approach is working well for us. Regardless of your ethnicity learn about Kwanzaa with your family. Many cities offer January 1st events that mark the end of the holiday with music, live performances, lectures and interactive activities for young people. For more information visit: http://www.officialkwanzaawebsite.org

As this year comes to an end I encourage parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, god parents, teachers, coaches and all those that have special relationships with children to think about how they can nurture a young person in the new year.  What can you do to strengthen their spirit, increase their humanity, cultivate their sense of character and develop their values? It is foolish for us to believe that bad habits and faulty logic will simply be outgrown. Sooner than we imagine our children will be adults going out into the world to make their marks.  As role models and mentors it is our responsibility to correct them, guide them and aid them in becoming people that don't just seek to help themselves, but to also serve God and their fellow man.

Happy New Year!

ShoMommy Thanksgiving Top 10! I am truly thankful for ...

On Thanksgiving Day we have an opportunity to reflect on the many favors and mercies in our lives. As we gather with friends, family or perhaps fellowship with strangers, we are reminded of the best parts of human nature. No commercialism, no cynicism - just a day to remember the grace that has sustained us during our lifetime. Despite any slights we might have suffered, lacks we may experience the fact that we are alive to see a new day gives up hope and peace. 

I am thankful for many things, both small and grand. Today I'm sharing my Top 10 reasons to give thanks!

10. Cable TV...
Traditions like the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, Purina Dog Show and countless football games may be the pinnacle of Turkey Day entertainment for some... I, however, find joy in Vh1Soul, Romantic Comedies on HBO and HGTV (House Hunters yaaa!)

9. Shelter... 
In the wake of Hurricane Sandy many people are still displaced on the Eastern Seaboard. Don't take everyday conveniences like shelter, heat, clean water, etc for granted. If you can continue to support please give at http://www.redcross.org/

8. My 5 year old son...
Smart, kind, lovable, handsome and finally tall enough to reach things on the low shelf! I'm putting my happy helper to work during Thanksgiving prep. When all is said and done and ShoMommy is in a couch potato HGTV zone, Nigel's more than happy to turn off the lights, fetch me a glass of water and find his own Cable TV joy with a Ninjago marathon 

7. A toddler no yet speaking in full sentences...
My baby girl will celebrate her second Thanksgiving this year. Known for her charmingly mercurial personality, healthy appetite and expressive eyes, I am thankful that she will be overjoyed with the variety of foods to sample and does not yet have the capacity to complain about dry turkey or cold dinner rolls. 

6. Jeggings...
Because I want to be stylish, yet gentle on my waistline. You feel me.

5. Family...
Not everyone is fortunate enough to have their loved ones close enough to share in Thanksgiving Day feasts and fun. Today I appreciate the love and support of my family; the ones gathered around the table with me and those that have reached out by phone, email and text. I'm not a fan of the mass holiday texting that's become the norm as of late, but it's the gesture that counts. It's nice to know that we are grateful for one another near and far. I'm thankful for my loved ones who have passed away, but shared our family's history and traditions. My late Grandmother, a Chicago woman with rich Southern roots, lives on in sweet potato pie and cornbread dressing.  

4.  A sense of humor...
It is easy to become overwhelmed by all that is serious in our lives and in the world. As we age we lose, little by the little, the levity that we enjoy in childhood. Our faces don't burst with happiness as easily and we rarely give ourselves permission to explode into a fit of giggles. When we laugh and find delight around us we add years to our lives and become closer to our spiritual center. Don't just LOL online do it in real life!

3. Ambition...
 Because I sure ain't wealthy... yet. I am more than grateful for the personal and professional successes I've had and I look forward to creating more in years to come. Not just for myself but for the benefit of my children whom I love so much!

2. Health...
I've recently learned the hard way, as I've lost friends my own age, that no matter how healthy and strong we are we won't live forever. I am thankful for a fit body (not as trim as I'd like, but I'm working on that) and a sound mind. 

1. Love...
Life is for loving, use your heart. I am thankful, not only for the love I receive, but for the love I am able to give.

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

PolitiKids: Introducing your Children to the Political Process

As election day approaches, eligible voters across the United States will head to the polls to cast their votes in the federal, state and local races. I've been actively engaged in keeping up with this year's tumultuous presidential election and simply by proximity my kids have gotten interested. I'm my family's resident political analyst, flooding my social media timelines with opinions and funny memes. I look forward to debates like my husband does Manchester soccer matches. Even though they're little, both under 5, I think it's important to introduce them to the political process, especially concepts of social justice and the knowledge that their voice matters. This week I'm sharing a few tips on how to raise pint sized politicos!

1. Start with the basics: Define terms.
What is an election? How do you vote? Why is it important?
If possible, try to keep your own divisive ideologies out of it. For kids younger than middle school age I don't think you need to address party affiliation. Explain what a President does. Governor, Mayor, State Representative, Congressperson, etc. My Kindergartener has been memorizing the 44 POTUS' since he was three. We have a cool place mat that helps him have fun with it. Make a local connection. Perhaps you'll speak more about figures that hail from your home state. Being in Illinois we talk a lot about Lincoln and Obama.

2. Stress the importance of equality
Explain that all votes matter. Save the electoral college discussion for later. Whether you are male or female, no matter your age, level of education or ethnicity help your child understand that being politically aware and active is their civic duty. Beware of using gender specific language. Just because we have yet to elect a female or Latino president tell your child it is possible - they may even become the first.

3. Skip the Cynicism 
Political opinions are often polarizing and controversial. Nix the sensationalizing and table the cynicism. We want to teach our children from a position that is unjaded. Politics, values and personal philosophies are certainly interwoven, but we must start with basic understanding. Liberals, Moderates and Conservatives alike believe in the principles of freedom and justice for all. Introduce a sense of democracy to your children in it's purest form. Treasure the innocent way they view the world and support their belief in fairness.

4. Lead by example
As their primary role models we must "show" more than we "say". Discuss domestic and foreign affairs with adults in the presence of your children; let them learn that it's OK to respectfully disagree with friends and family. Become involved with the school board, participate in neighborhood planning or volunteer for your candidate of choice. Take them to vote with you if possible. Let them admire the scores of citizens who participate. The idea is to demonstrate that one person can make a difference in the world around them; by getting involved they can impact their environment in a positive way.

5. Student Government and Extracurriculars
When the time comes, talk to your child about running for a student council post. This can give them an opportunity to truly understand what if means to be an elected official. Of course, some will win and other will lose. Teach them that this is simply a part of life. Whether or not they are the victor,  encourage them to demonstrate leadership everyday in classrooms, on the playground and after school clubs. This is a lesson in valuing their influence and using it to benefit others.