Ever so often, you find women, sincerely supporting other women, and that tickles me pink! Magnolia Moms is a blog about raising a traditional family in a modern world while trying to stay true to Southern roots & traditions while embracing a modern world. I’m so excited to join the Magnolia Mom’s blogging team. Please take a second to give them a like and follow them on Facebook and Instagram and read my introductory message below.

"I carry many labels that I am proud of, author, registered dietitian, radio host, television presenter, and nutrition counselor. Beyond those I’m a child of God, daughter to Bill and Betty, wife to Dalco, and mom to Neely and Emliee James (EJ), and friend to many. Carry, was a deliberate verb, because with each label comes the weight of responsibilities and expectations upon my shoulders.

It’s in my DNA to strive for a life of excellence and good health, but as you know, figuring out how to balance it all can be a challenge. Not to mention, the world says that women should be able to do it all, take care of everyone, need nothing from anyone, and look smoking hot while doing it. Most women, including myself, go through life questioning themselves, doubting their abilities to juggle the world’s expectations, and viciously chase a vain vision of wellness that robs their joy and energy to manage the things that matter.

My journey has been full of peaks and valleys. At times, I have felt certain and then uncertain. Strong, then insecure. Determined and defeated. Fearless and drowning in fear. But throughout it all, one thing has always been constant: My faith and my passion for helping people take control of their health. It wasn't until my thirties that I started taking control of my spiritual, mental, and physical health for the right reasons, discovering God’s vision for my life, and pursuing that without worrying about the world’s standard.

I’m still a work in progress, but I’m ready to bring you on that journey with me. Together, I believe we can help create a world where our daughters and sons nourish their bodies knowing it’s heavenly worth, and don’t waste decades pursuing worldly perfection, like their mothers did. Sarcasm is my love language, and I refuse to live a life without chips, cheese, chardonnay, and Jesus Christ. Amen."

I’m all about celebrating world breastfeeding week! Motherhood is a lot like this pandemic — moms are all in the same crazy, unpredictable storm of highs and lows, but no two moms are in the same boat.

Breastfeeding both my girls is something I’ll forever cherish, but I’d never judge a woman for choosing a different path. See, to be successful at breastfeeding, all the planets must align - a body that will make milk, a baby who will accept it, and a support system in terms of family, friends, and work. And even then, it is often an uphill battle with your sacrifices and emotional struggles.

But the part that brings me hope for moms in the future is the uptick in public support. I’ve nursed both of my girls is the most common and oddest places and never have been made to feel uncomfortable. That’s not everyone’s story, but it’s mine.

My favorite is when you get the “wink” or “wave” from fellow moms who see you quietly feeding your baby as a salute of support. We need more of that in the world — winks and waves of loving-kindness.

Even at a water park.

FREEZER JAM Have you heard of it? It sounds like a new tik tok dance move. But it’s this delicious homemade magical spread that spends its time in your freezer until you’re ready to spread its sugary sinfulness onto something hot out of the oven.

I’ve been in the Turner family for almost 15 full years, and I am just now discovering this homemade gem. I almost feel betrayed that it took this long for my in-laws to let me in on the secret hidden in the freezer.

But if I were honest, years ago, I would have passed on this biscuit topper because it was full of “added sugar” and wouldn’t have “fit my macros.” Saying “no thank you” was more comfortable than feeling the guilt the rest of the day of “giving in” and not “staying on” my strict food plan.

I’m grateful that God delayed my introduction to “freezer jam” when my mind was more open to having food experiences without condemnation. Our Aunt Fran made this delicious strawberry spread. Instead of fretting over the food choice, I thanked God and her for this meal and time spent with family around the kitchen table. I pray for you to enjoy good health, good food, and the good, good Lord.