I woke up this morning to alerts, yes plural, that my social media accounts have been deactivated. 🤯
I am a little disheartened by it because it’s almost a regular part of my life. I post my family, trips, and just overall the fun stuff we do. I am more saddened because the main thing that I post is homeschooling tips, tricks, and hacks. ❤️
I can’t say I’m too disappointed though. Social media should NOT be part of my life though. I know that and you know that but it is what it is right? Posting is fine it’s when you get caught up in that doom scroll. You look up and hours have passed by. 😬
Ironically, a couple of days ago, I told McRush that I was going to get off of social media because it was consuming too much of my time. So, I guess the real problem is, I didn’t get to do it on my time. I’m kinda spoiled like that. 🤭
You know what that means right? 👀
Blogging is now my only outlet. I hope you love it here because you’re about to see more of me. 🤣
With that being said. I have been doing good on my journey. I am exercising 3-4 times a week (actually breaking a sweat). I haven’t checked the scale but I lost 10 pounds last month so I am aiming to do the same this month. I started at 193 for the month of November.
Wish me luck! 🥰
This is an old ai pic I used as a goal mark for my weightloss.
I’m just poking my head in here to check in. Yes, I have been committed to me these past few days.
I dont think I mentioned it on here 🤔 but I have been exercising adding 5 minutes each week.
What I have learned about myself is some things, like exercise, are best done if I ease into it. This was a huge shift for me as I normally am a “jump in with both feet” kind of girl. But disciplined tasks I cannot do like that. Starting a business, both feet in. Started a family, both feet in. Even going back to school, both feet in as I’d pick up 6-8 classes a semester. But exercising? Oh baby, I’m quitting on day three. 🤣
When I first started exercising I was at 10 minutes a day. Something small that I can definitely commit to, and add 5 minutes per week. This week I am at 30 minutes and I have been pretty consistent only missing 2 days overall. I also learned that I NEED rest days. I was afraid that “skipping a day” would throw my desire off and at first it did. I found myself making an excuse like “another day won’t hurt”. 🥴 Oh the lies we tell ourselves. 🤭
But I schedule my Rest days and that’s something that im still playing with. But for now it’s Monday Wednesday Friday 30 minutes Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday are rest days and Sunday is a light day like the vibration plate, which I also learned that you need rest days for. I have incorporated the vibration plate onto my workout as I have seen good results on my thighs because I do alot of stretching exercises while on it.
Today is a workout day and I happily did my 30 minutes.
What I haven’t figured out is walking. I thought walking daily was good but apparently you need rest from that too so now I’m wondering if walking should be my rest day agenda. Or is that doing too much?
You know, I’m glad that I did this experiment. It really let’s me know, HOW BAD I FELL OFF! 😭 Guess how many of my focused habits I done today. One. 1. Uno. I can’t even count the blogging because although it’s night time it’s after twelve so it’s technically tomorrow.
I didn’t exercise because I haven’t been feeling and soreness although I have been working out daily. But really, that’s an excuse because I could have simply stuck to this experiment for 2 more days and then rested. I read that you must have rest days for optimal results. while I already knew that, I thought that because my workouts were not high intensity I could do it daily but apparently not. But I am all.about H.I.T.S so let’s call it what it is. Self sabotage. Because I was looking for a reason not to dedicate myself today. 🤦🏾♀️ Welp, seek and you shall find.
I actually DIDN’T eat before 11:30 this morning but I most definitely did eat after 6:30 p.m. Do you know the crazy part? I actually ate better throughout the day. I was very intentional. Just to throw it all away. 🥴
I did not walk because honestly, I was already defeated. I walk in the evenings. Its easier to stick.to when you’re already on track for the day but if not it’s like, it’s not even worth it (even though it is).
I did read. Both a physical and an audio book. But that’s prerty simple, all I need is an excuse to read and im going to do it everytime.
And obviously I did not blog (in time). So I am sure that it’s safe to say that today was a bust. I’m still excited to try again tomorrow so all is not lost.
I’m Hella sleepy 😴 so I’m going to bed.
I dont think I’ve had a perfect day yet so fingers crossed for tomorrow. Wish me the best!
OH!!! H.I.T.S. is an acronym from Rush Consulting Firm. It stands for Honesty, Integrity, Transparency, and Self accountability. It keeps you from.making excuses for your not so good habits. ❤️
If you read my blog from yesterday then you know that I am on day two of accountability but day three of action hence the title. So do not be alarmed when you see day four tomorrow. 🤪
So today started of well. I got up at 7:30, yes, I know from a workout point of view that’s pretty late but im not a gym rat 😅. I did my workout, I read, I did not eat after 6:30, and I am about to go for my walk. Just know that anything can happen at my house at any point so that walk is tbd and I will check in with you tomorrow about that but I’m pretty confident. 😬
(For those that dont know confidence is the nemesis of parent life. You just never know what life is going to throw at you. 🤣)
Lastly, Of course, I’m blogging.😊
Its co-op day so instead of our regular morning agenda in homeschooling we spent the first hours doing arts and crafts before we headed out. Unfortunately we couldn’t stay long, I just wanted to keep my commitment and show my face. Ian had a neurology appointment all the way down town which, when we got there they rescheduled it because one of the eeg machines were down. 😑
That was really the highlight of the day. Did some laundry. 🤷🏾♀️ Tuesdays are usually pretty hectic but this one was pretty easy. Drop college kids off-teach-pick up college kids- co op- doctor appointment- home. 😩
Currently cooking dinner and prepping for class tomorrow. Thats it.
I did weigh myself although I vowed that I wouldn’t do that because what I HAVE learned in this journey is the numbers will deter and defeat you daily. Ain’t nobody got time for that! 🤣 I came in at a smooth 200.1 pounds 🥴. I’m trying to lie to myself and say since my cycle is on, it’s about 2 pounds extra but im not buying it. I’ll take the big win when I get on that scale at the end of my 7 days with no period and pretend that it’s that much more of a victory.
So for those who do not know, honestly I dont know how that would be possible if you follow me on any platform because I have been telling everyone who will listen, I lost around 120 pounds. Yup, I went from 288 to 168.
*a brief moment of celebration* 🥳
Thank you. 🥰
Well. In August I went on a family trip to Myrtle Beach. I do not like the beach. I do not like anything about the beach. I dont like sand between my toes, the dirty water, annoying birds hovering, sun beaming down with little to no shade, not the wind blowing sand in you face and or food. I dont like being in the midst of people, I dont like the random dogs walking and peeing in the water (like seriously, eww). There is nothing and I do mean nothing that I like about the beach BUT I took one for the team. Next day SWOLLEN. I mean, I gained 21 pounds within the course of 2 days. I got tested at my doctor, did a water fast. Nothing was wrong besides, I am allergic. You jeard me right. I believe I am allergic to the beach. I am for sure allergic to seafood and salt makes me instantly swell. While all of this is new to me at 40 years plus, I make no excuses.
Well, I was like, meh, 189 isn’t too bad, I can casually work it off. Nope. I kept ballooning. I got off track and couldn’t find the motivation to get back on. I literally settled. Next time I stepped on the scale was because 2 pairs of jeans fit a little too snug. Do you know what the scale said? Of course you don’t 🙄 I dont know why I asked as if we were sitting amongst one another. 🤦🏾♀️
201 🤯. Get. The. Fuck. Outta. Here.
I panicked just a little but I know what I need to do because I got this far. And do you think that I did it? No. No I did not. I got on the scale today and it said 203.4. 😭 Bruh, what am I actually doing here!?! 😬
So today, I sat and made a list of disciplined focus with the hopes of holding myself accountable without overwhelming myself. Let’s not forget that I have a husband and 10 children in the house. I also homeschool and run a Firm. AND I just registered for a statistics class so I can brush up. I am also the cook and runner of the family. Doctor appointments, practices, jobs. I know my limits.
The focused disciplines for the week of October 25 are:
No eating past 6:30 or before 11;30
Exercise 30 minutes daily
Walk nightly
Read daily
Blog
I did not get to walk this evening and I ate some broccoli as I cooked [late] dinner. I feel pretty bummed about that but im blogging to hold myself accountable. While this was not outlined until today, I did get all the tasks except blogging done yesterday. I’m not off to a horrible start just a bumpy one. 😊
With a large family like mine, you would think that there is no shortage of family time. And, while, for the most part, we do activities together there is a big disconnect that can bring up arguing and bickering. The feeling of not connecting or everyone really getting to know one another.
I attribute this to the overwhelming dependence of electronics. McRush and I definitely spoil our crew so its surely on us. Mostly me. When I see something I think the RushBunch would like, I’m pressed to get it. Whether its clothes, games, vacations, or electronics.
I suppose, in some way, I feel a sense of guilt for having 12 children. I always want to make sure they feel loved and appreciated. This is more than likely from the pressures and whispers of friends, family, and even strangers, that “there is no way those children are getting enough love with that many children”.
I’m a giver. I give every part of me and that includes my pockets.
We have family night on Fridays and monthly family trips. But it doesn’t feel like enough to me. I am constantly loving on them. I talk to them one-on-one. I (probably) overshare. And yes, I buy them whatever they want. We even have one-on-one lunch dates.
The problem with this, aside from me being drained in every way, is that I fear I have created Takers. And while much of this could be a compilation of them growing up and finding themselves in addition to them being regular teenagers, they bicker A LOT. So much so that it feels, to me, like having an aversion towards one another. Though not disrespectful to myself or their father.
So, starting this month, today, McRush and I have implemented the following.
Now, while they do share time together, the dependency on their electronics has placed a bit of a strain on their relationships. This is my resolve, agreed to by McRush. I thought I’d share in case anyone else needed it.
Things To Do Tea party with the girls. Play football with the boys. Go for a walk with 2+ people Play a family board game. Get to know a sibling better Play jump rope Play hopscotch Go skating together Go for a bike ride with someone Go skating outside Play cards Start (and finish) a chapter book with a little Write your grandparents a letter Volunteer for a neighbor Teach someone something of value Organize an area of the house Do a chore for a sibling Practice your signatures together Do an art project with a little Draw with someone Color together Teach someone a new dance Create a handshake Wash the cars together Tell someone 5 things that you like about them Journal with someone Walk the Milo with someone Have lunch with someone Have a friendly competition Do a chore together Help someone reach a new goal Create a ritual/habit together Meditate with someone Give out hugs and gratitude Fix a family meal Build something together Share your hopes and dreams with someone Create a new dish together (You may create a group idea to be approved by parents)
Each of these quests should be dedicated a minimum of 15 minutes. No arguing or bickering, just calm resolve. You are required to do a minimum of three (3) per day. Failure to do so will result in the forfeiture of your electronics for 24 hours 1st offense, 48 hours the 2nd offense, 1 week your 3rd . Failure to cooperate will result in 30 days of forfeiture. Electronics include TVs, laptops, switches, phones, iPad, and electric scooters. -Mom & Dad
What do you think? Am I overthinking? Are my expectations too high? Let me know in the comments and feel free to share. ❤️
I have been on a wave of growth doing exactly what I teach my clients to do, and that’s tap into your capabilities. We are so used to running off of our abilities because it’s safe, it’s what we know, but there’s no growth there. Sure, you may get a promotion or recognition, but you maintain this feeling of “coasting ” through life, never experiencing what the world has to offer you.
So aside from working with a city, I know, MAJOR , right! I have also been aiming to sink my business claws onto a new venture. That is so exciting to me because I literally love it yet never considered venturing into this business sector. I’m in the process of awwing him into why I am the best person for the job. PLUS, as you know, I have been working on my book release (no date yet) called Children Ruin Everything, and I got my first review! It’s a good review, too!
Hopefully, with so much restructuring and growth happening, I will still be able to push and get this book out soon.
I just recently came back from poaching in San Diego with the plans of expanding our office there. Now, with this new city as a client, I may need to open an office there as well. I am traveling north next weekend (location not disclosed but I’ll tell you why later) to see what I can get into business wise there. 😉
The children have settled into being in school but I’m pretty sure this will be their first and last year in the public school system although them going to school has been serving its purpose of giving me a little more flex time to do business in the blink of an eye. Next year I am going to hire full time teachers to come in and teach so I know they are staying on track without losing my own momentum.
Anyway. Do you guys want to see the review? Of course you do.
“Kids Ruin Everything is a heartwarming and candid memoir written by Maisha Rush, a wife and homeschooling mother of twelve children. The book highlights how children have a tendency to ruin all the plans you had for life in a positive way, even when you can’t see it as you go through the experience. Maisha shares her personal experiences as a mother, from the challenges she faced in raising a large family to the joys and triumphs that come with it.
Through witty anecdotes and relatable stories, Maisha offers an inviting and lighthearted look into the ups and downs of parenthood. By sharing her own experiences, Maisha offers readers the encouragement and reassurance that they need to navigate the exciting yet often challenging world of parenting.
As Maisha mentions in the book, it’s not uncommon for parents to feel as though they’re giving more than they ever expected yet receiving more than they ever thought possible. Through addressing the difficulties that come with parenthood, she shares the joys and happiness that come with it, revealing how children have a beautiful way of making everything better.
As the title suggests, Kids Ruin Everything is not a book that sugarcoats the realities of being a parent. Maisha doesn’t hide the fact that raising a family can be challenging. From sleepless nights and temper tantrums to constant messes and unexpected surprises, the book offers a refreshing and honest take on the ups and downs of raising children.
Yet, despite the challenges that come with raising children, Maisha shows how it all works out for the best. She writes about the love and support she received from her children, as well as the great sense of satisfaction and accomplishment that comes from being a full-time parent. Maisha reminds readers that children are often the biggest blessings in life, as they bring joy, vitality, and love to everything they touch.
Kids Ruin Everything is an uplifting and honest memoir that offers a refreshing and relatable perspective on parenting. Maisha’s lighthearted anecdotes and relatable stories make for an entertaining read, while the underlying message of hope and encouragement will resonate with parents everywhere. Parents will be inspired and motivated to persevere through the challenges of raising children, knowing that the rewards of parenthood are immeasurable, life-changing, and worth it all. I LOVE the way Maisha captivates the audience through her honesty and relatability. Even though I do not have 12 children, she makes me feel like she shares in my struggles and I in hers. This book has made me re-think a lot of what I do and how I approach raising my own family while reminding me not to forget about myself and my goals. It is absolutely possible to have ‘all the things I want the way I want them, now’. “
🤗 come through, ME!!!!! 👏🏾
Oh!!! Did I mention that I was asked to speak at the College of Charleston through their Upward Bound program? My topic is H.U.G.E. Communication focuses on how to maintain good communication with your college bound child.
🎶 look at me know🎶
Who knew this would be my life as I started this company from a helpless place and now I get to share and enjoy the journey with so many others.
Thank you for ALL of your support whether it’s reading my blogs, watching my youtubes/tiktoks/television interviews or gassing me up along the way all the way to booking and hiring me as you business consultant or coach. THANK YOU.
I’m on the road right now and headed back home. I miss my babies. That’s right, I said it. Those same crumb snatching, time stealing, mommy-can-I rugrats I talk cash trash about. 🥰
I have been having a tough time time this past week finding my motivation, so this girls’ trip is just what I needed.
It was my mom, sister, and myself. The first of many to come, I hope. We’re not really talkers, so there was no “bonding,” but we are already close, so it was more about getting away and having some fun.
We slept in, went to breakfast, and hit up some stores for shopping. Of no surprise, most of our shopping was for the household or the children/husband’s. 🙄
It was a much needed break. I’ve had some time to reflect, and I think it’s time for me to do a purge. This next week, I think I’m going to deep clean my house and have a yard sale this Saturday (so if you’re local, come out). It’s not about making money. I just don’t feel like hauling it to the dump, so nothing will be over $10 (I think) 🤔. After that I am minimizing my time on social media. In addition, I think I’m going to purge my client list, so I need to start finding people who will take them. 😬
I have a few goals in mind, and I need to clear the clutter of my life in order to get to them. Did you know that if there is disorganization around you, it affects your motivation and actions? Sometimes, you will feel excited about an idea but completely unmotivated to do it if your surroundings are not organized. In order to move forward with progression, you must be able to move freely. That means mentally and physically.
As a mom of 12 I had to learn the hard way that I must have access to everything at all times in order to work efficiently and to do so there must be organization or else I will spend more time searching instead of acting.
As much as my husband and I are a team there is still not much he knows about me on a day to day basis. I have no doubt that he married me because I am a phenomenal woman but if he knew I had secret missions and powers it would blow his mind.
It’s one thirty in the morning and I have been battling a headache all day. All I want to do is rest. Not just sleep but rest. Yesterday I gave him a detailed rundown of what I had to do but because he was tired from his workday he barely acknowledged. I don’t fault him for this because he does work very hard and has long hour days and he does try to help before passing out from exhaustion. I joked about taking on another husband to help carry his load around the house. He didn’t find amusement in that. He never does.
I didn’t get to go to an event I was invited to today because I wasn’t feeling my best and the house urgently needed cleaning. My oldest son came home before being stationed out for the next four years and he pulled and sorted through all of his things packing what he was keeping. I then had to clean up bins and piles of what-nots in order to see what was to be thrown away. In addition, someone gave my littles a ton of clothes that I had to sort through, wash and fold. Gabriel is struggling in reading so I spent some time with him on that. My girls are also under the weather so I had to tend to them. Maia is in the midst of being potty trained so that takes repetition. I have a client that I’m working on grants for so I was searching the resources for that. Plus, I am building a portfolio for another client in addition to revamping mine. My 17 year old needed a ride to and from work and my room has been neglected for weeks now.
While everyone is sound asleep I tidied up, took Maia temperature and changed her training pants to her pullout in case she has an accident. I rocked Kera to sleep and put them in their beds.
McRush is battling tinnitus so I nudged him awake to put oil in his ear with a cotton swab. I am still battling this headache trying to keep it at bay to be sure it doesn’t turn into a migraine.
My mission is simple, to keep this house a home. My super power is being able to always show up even if that means little rest. I do it with a happy heart knowing even if they don’t see me do it they know it got done.
I have had a lot going on with the shift in business and how I run the household, mainly the children being in public school instead of homeschool. It’s a crazy transition right now but I am sure once we get the hang of it things will run more smoothly.
I oftentimes wonder, if I had it to do over again, would I do the same things. I like to think that I would but right now, mama needs some rest.
To all of the moms, or silent angels out there. I’m rooting for you. Now get some rest. ❤️
I recently ran an ad on Facebook and I had racists coming out of the woodwork for my neck. Don’t worry, I got receipts. One guy called me a diversity hire ” swooping in at a time when people don’t have any money”. WHO doesn’t have money? Listen, if you’re broke just say that. 😳 Another guy went on to talk about how trump was up in the polls. This concerns me how? We already knew his numbers would jump given his general target audience. 🤷🏾 It’s crazy. Then I have people jumping down my throat about my stance on the writers strike and I don’t know why because I support the strike. I just wish they would be able to read the fine print in their contracts so they can seek a better deal.
Either way, the talks, chatter, and disses only bring me more visibility and that is what made me keep my cool. Cause inside I wanted to say a few choice words but I wanted to remain professional because the success of my brand and my business is what I am after. Period.
Even before the shenanigans it has been a rollercoaster of a week. For those that don’t know, I registered my children for public school and for all but one of them, my senior, that have never been in that setting so there was plenty of confusion the first week but we made it through. Hopefully we start off on the good foot tomorrow and from there on.
I met with a radio exec who wants me to come on his show and talk about black businesses and their growth. I also did an interview for insider magazine so I’ll let you know when that drops. I signed a new client and also, I am back in the grant writing game for another client. So this week has been a whirlwind of emotions but I am so very grateful through it all.
I need to record a podcast tomorrow and write a blog for Rush Consulting Firm, which I must say is doing phenomenal. My advice for you this week is let the noise be loud but don’t let it get to you.
