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Christian Woman Unable to Have Baby Her Prayers Were Answered in the Most Surprising Way
Uplifting News

Christian Woman Unable to Have Baby Her Prayers Were Answered in the Most Surprising Way

When Jaclyn Fieberg and her husband Greg Fieberg tied the knot in 2018, they eagerly anticipated starting a family. Fieberg, an elementary school teacher, and Greg, a firefighter and sergeant in the Air National Guard, dreamed of the warmth and laughter of children filling their home after long days at work. However, their hopes were dashed when Jaclyn Fieberg received devastating diagnoses of endometriosis and a chromosomal condition, casting a shadow over their dreams of parenthood.As an elementary school teacher, Fieberg poured her heart into nurturing her students, but deep down, she yearned for a child of her own to love and cherish. Each day, as she watched her students laugh and learn, the ache in her heart grew stronger, a silent longing for the pitter-patter of little feet and the joy of holding her own baby close. As the years passed and hope seemed lost, each day served as a poignant reminder of the life she longed to have but feared may never come to fruition — the dream of holding her own child in her arms.They Hit "Every Single Roadblock"Jaclyn FiebergJaclyn Fieberg and her husband Greg embarked on their journey to parenthood filled with hope and anticipation. However, their path was fraught with challenges from the very beginning. Despite their unwavering determination, they faced countless obstacles, enduring seven rounds of IVF and three heartbreaking miscarriages. "Every single roadblock that I felt like we could hit, we were hitting."Yet each setback had a silver lining. These obstacles only helped their bond more as a couple, testing their resilience and resolve. However, in the midst of their struggles, Fieberg found hope in her sisters, McIntyre and Corritori. Their constant support and selfless acts of love played a crucial role in making Jaclyn's dreams of motherhood a reality. In the best plot twist ever, her family helped her start one.God “Blessed” Her in the Most Unexpected WayTODAY ShowWhen her doctor, Matthew Lederman of RMA of New York - Westchester, suggested the possibility of using an egg donor, her younger sister, Meredith McIntyre, immediately stepped forward. Led by love, McIntyre selflessly volunteered to donate her eggs, offering Fieberg a ray of hope in her darkest hour.“I don’t know how she went through the journey that she’s been through," McIntyre, a mother of twins, said. "It’s been years and it was so hard for her family to see her struggle. It was just blow after blow.”"I just knew it was something I had to do for her," McIntyre said. For the first time in a long time, Fieberg had a renewed hope — but it wouldn't last long. The family was devastated when they discovered their initial attempt was unsuccessful. McIntyre experienced complications and was not able to carry Fieberg's baby-to-be.That's when her sister Stephanie Corritori courageously volunteered to carry the baby. It was the sisterhood of the traveling womb!These three sisters joined forces, showing incredible determination and the strength of family bonds. With their unwavering support, Fieberg found herself blessed in a way she never imagined — surrounded by the love of her sisters and the joy of having a child with their help.Their Prayers Were Finally AnsweredJaclyn FiebergAs Fieberg and her sisters stood united in their unwavering support, their prayers were finally answered in the most miraculous of ways. After enduring countless trials and setbacks on their journey to parenthood, she received the long-awaited news that would change their lives forever.On Feb. 1, 2024 their baby girl, Emersyn Clare Fieberg was born. And she was perfect.A mother at last, Fieberg said of Emersyn, "She’s going to know her story, and she’s going to know how wanted she was, and that her aunts did the most selfless, incredible thing."She Listened to an Uplifting Playlist EverydayEvery day, Stephanie Corritori found inspiration in a meticulously curated playlist. These songs were a source of strength throughout their unique journey to parenthood. A month before Corritori underwent IVF, the playlist became a comforting companion during these unsure time. With each melody, Corritori found a renewed sense of hope and determination. One song, My Wish by Rascal Flatts, held a special significance, reflecting Fieberg's struggles and the heartfelt desire for a brighter future, not only for her but now for little Emersyn. This playlist, carefully crafted with love and intention, became a symbol of resilience and unwavering faith in the face of adversity.Corritori's playlist included a diverse selection of uplifting tunes, each carrying its own message of hope and perseverance. From Luke Bryan's Most People are Good, a reminder of the inherent goodness in the world, to the timeless classics like Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey's When You Believe and I Will Always Love You, each song served as a beacon of light during their darkest days. Other songs included Elton John's I'm Still Standing and MercyMe's I Can Only Imagine — a powerful song which sparked dreams of a future filled with endless possibilities. As Corritori listened to these melodies day after day, she found herself filled with hope and determination. Each song became a prayer, a reminder that even in the midst of uncertainty, miracles were possible. And when baby Emersyn finally arrived, these songs echoed the joy and gratitude that filled their hearts, a testament to the power of love, faith, and the unwavering support of family.“Blessings” Come in All Shapes and SizesThough Fieberg may not have been blessed with a baby in the traditional sense, she discovered a different kind of blessing in the form of her family. With unwavering love and support, her sisters, Meredith McIntyre and Stephanie Corritori, stepped forward to fulfill her dreams of motherhood. More from Goalcast:Woman Sits Next to Pregnant Stranger on Flight – Ends Up Adopting Her Newborn BabyWoman Sits Next to Pregnant Stranger on Flight – Ends Up Adopting Her Newborn BabyAngry Customer Throws a Drink at Pregnant McDonald’s Worker – But One Stranger Witnesses Everything

Moms Video About How She Deals With Her Hard Child Goes Viral - For All the Right Reasons
Uplifting News

Moms Video About How She Deals With Her Hard Child Goes Viral - For All the Right Reasons

It's no secret social media can make us feel bad about ourselves sometimes — we're endlessly scrolling through people sharing their perfect lives or perfect bodies and it can seem so much better than what we've got.Social media envy is real, but TikToker Hannah Flint is one of the momfluencers using her powers to keep it real.How One Mom Is Blocking out the HatersOn her page (@hannahflint_), the mother of 4 talks about taboo subjects like postpartum or normalizing not breastfeeding your baby. While everyone may not agree with her, Flint willingly puts herself in the line of fire. Sharing her hot takes, she's almost taunting the mommy-shamers to come out of the woodwork.But it seems Flint isn't sharing her opinions for the haters — she's here to make the women just like her, feel less alone.And it's safe to say, it's working.Hannah Flint/TikTokIn short, this is one mom that doesn't shy away from the hard-to-discuss topics — including what it's really like to parent the "hard child.""This is our 'hard child.' Our 'doesn't listen' child. Our 'do it myself' child..."Hannah Flint, TikTokIn Flint's now-viral TikTok, the tough-love mama shares how parenting the "hard child" can feel impossible — and why she even bothers putting up with it! Her answer may just surprise you.Watch Hannah Flint's Video:The video opens on a little girl in an apron with her blonde hair pulled back in a loose ponytail. When she turns to the camera, she's crying and it's clear she's just been throwing a tantrum. “The Hard Ones Are the Ones Who Will Change the World”In this heartwarming series of clips, Flint expertly cuts together an all-encompassing sample of the highs and lows that come with parenting the hard child. Her message is clear: there is no rose without a thorn."This is our 'hard child'...she is also our resilient child. fearless child. independent child. try anything child. The one who makes us laugh the most. And speaks her mind. So just in case you need a reminder on those hard days...the hard ones are the ones who will change the world."Hannah Flint, TikTokIn being able to step back in those difficult moments, Flint was able to see her daughter for the whole of who she is.While this realization may not seem groundbreaking on the surface, Flint's comment section tells a different story.“Hard Children” Everywhere Finally Felt SeenIn being unafraid to call 'a spade a spade,' Flint was able to start a conversation about how being difficult can be a curse and a blessing. "Thank you from all the 'hard' children who are now adults ❤️" @smithrachel21 wrote."I was the hard child. I’m outspoken passionate, and empathetic. My daughter is just like me. It’s hard, but I know she’ll do great things," @ms.patrick31 commented.You Have to Take the Good With the BadIf there's one thing Flint wants to remind us is that as a kid finding your sea legs (so to speak) is challenge.Yes, the child who doesn't listen may be more than you can handle on the days where you're just trying to get your grocery shopping done. Those are probably the days where you're grateful for your "responsible" rule-follower child.But on the days when you need a laugh or a pick-me-up, those are the days thank your lucky stars for that "hard child." Because they're also the ones who take charge and take chances. They are the "fearless" child and they are the change makers we need — at least that's how Flint sees it.More from Goalcast:People Are Sharing Their One “Simple Rule” That Would “Fix” the World – And the Replies Are GoldenWoman Goes With High School Sweetheart on a Date – Finds Out He’d Been Working on a Secret for Months16-Year-Old Becomes Homeless After Parents Ask Her to Move Out – Years Later, a Shocking Scene Changes Everything

Mom Visits Store to Buy Diapers for Her Baby - Finds a Letter That Shocks Her
Uplifting News

Mom Visits Store to Buy Diapers for Her Baby - Finds a Letter That Shocks Her

*Featured image contains photo by Craig AdderleyWhat happens is so shocking, that she goes online in a frantic attempt to find out who is behind it.The Crushing Cost of ParenthoodPhoto by Nicola BartsRaising a child is pricey business, and the cost is only rising.As per CBS, "The cost of raising a child from birth to age 17 will set you back by about $310,000." It's pushed more and more families into homelessness. One of the biggest infant expenses is diapers -- and lots of them. So when Brisbane native Michelle Patricia Bennett is strolling down the aisle at Woolworth's to buy some for her baby one day, she's price-watching. After all, she doesn't want any surprises. Fast forward a couple of days later. Bennett recalls that she was "having a day at home just trying to catch up on the mountains of housework," when a surprise is exactly what she gets. A Stunning Surprise From Aisle 5Photo by Eduardo SoaresThat's because, as she opens up the box of diapers, she discovers something else inside. It's a five-dollar bill -- with a note. What it reads gives her the motivation to share her experience online and it quickly goes viral.Bennett's post is titled 'My Wealthy Wednesday.' "To the kind person that has done this, thank you!!! It is such a wonderful gesture and certainly brought a smile to my face," she writes.She includes a picture of the note which reads:If you having a tough day, I thought maybe I can brighten it up with this little surprise. Go buy a coffee or a scratch ticket. Practice some self-care today. Always remember you are much loved and you are amazing :)Bennett continues, "I'll definitely get a coffee or a scratchy soon."The story had the internet gushing with awestruck comments. "Oh, that's so sweet," posted one woman. "So nice of someone to do such a thing. Lovely little surprise -- a little bit of kindness goes a long way.""This is absolutely beautiful," added another. How a Mother Reminds Us That the Small Things MatterIt doesn't take an economist to know that it's not just parents who are feeling the financial crunch. Per Business Insider, "bankruptcies, foreclosures, and other money problems like car repossessions and loan defaults" have consumer stress levels the highest in four years. While the struggle is real, it's no match for kindness. Among the quotes on kindness, one by Abraham Lincoln reads, " Kindness is the only service that will stand the storm of life and not wash out." It might be a little legal leniency for a single mother, making a waitress's wish come true or repaying a treasured teacher. No matter the situation, through all of life's waves and ripples, kindness endures. Let's all keep that close to heart the next time we're in a bind.More from Goalcast:Single Mom’s Biggest Fear Is Regarding Her 14-Year-Old Son – So His Teacher Makes Her an OfferSingle Mom’s Driveway Is “Stolen” in Broad Daylight – Then a Stranger Makes an Offer She Can’t RefuseBoy Suddenly Goes Missing During Routine Walmart Trip – His Mom Finds Him in an Unlikely Place

Bride Leaves Empty Seat for Late Son - Breaks Down When This Person Takes His Place Instead
Uplifting News

Bride Leaves Empty Seat for Late Son - Breaks Down When This Person Takes His Place Instead

When you lose someone, the sadness surrounding their death never really goes away. Grief comes in waves, and those waves ebb and flow. Some days will always be better than others. Weddings are a unique situation though, because on a day meant for joy and new beginnings, you can’t help but remember those who should be there celebrating with you.That’s why this touching story of a mom who lost her son before her wedding day has people around the world tearing up.A Sad GoodbyeAn Alaskan woman named Becky Turney went through the unthinkable a few years ago when she lost her 19-year-old son, Triston. The mother was devastated, but she took solace in knowing her son was a donor. Triston’s heart, lungs, and other organs went toward others in need, and he ended up saving four lives.As time moved on, Becky continued to mourn her son. But she also tried to live her life, and a couple of years later she was getting ready to marry the man of her dreams, Kelly Turney. He had been with Becky for the past seven years and knew everything she had been through.So as the days to the wedding ticked down, the pair planned on having an empty seat in Triston’s honor. The couple also had a sign printed in his memory.“I'm in heaven for your wedding so what shall I do? I'll come down to earth to spend it with you. So save me a seat, just one empty chair. You may not see me, but I will be there,” the sign read.The Ultimate SurpriseThe couple rehearsed the wedding with the empty seat, and they didn’t really speak of it again. However, Kelly was secretly planning a big surprise for his bride.When the big day arrived, Kelly walked down the aisle and stopped at the seat she had put aside. There, a 21-year-old man named Jacob Kilby sat instead. Kilby had been born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome and received his first heart transplant when he was two. A few years ago, that heat deteriorated, and he had a heart attack. Triston’s heart saved his life.Kelly had worked for months to fly Jacob out for the wedding and hid him until the last possible moment. Then, he introduced the man as his sixth groomsman.“I lost my mind. I squealed like a little girl,” Becky, who had only ever spoken on the phone with Jacob previously, told Today. “It was incredible.”Not a Dry EyePeople teared up as Becky wept and connected with Jacob. In a series of photographs from the wedding photographer, Amber Lanphier of Love Adventured, Becky and Jacob are hugging and smiling. One photo even shows Becky listening to Jacob’s heart with a stethoscope.“There really are no words, and that’s the coolest part because the pictures, they say it all,” Becky added. “I’ve never ever been surprised like that, like ever. I’m the girl who secretly unwraps all the Christmas presents under the tree and puts them back. So for him to pull this off was just incredible.”For Jacob, it was a meaningful way to say thank you to the mother and to honor the memory of the man who allowed him another chance at life by donating his heart.“I wouldn’t be here without it,” he added. “Here in Alaska, we’ve definitely created a bond that’s unforgettable and very rare. By us sharing the story, it will hopefully encourage other people to do the same.”Finding a PurposeThis story is a powerful one because it reminds us of the power of purpose. The death of Becky’s son was tragic, yet it allowed four other people to live.Often in life, and especially when we lose someone who was close to us, we struggle with purpose. That’s why it can be helpful to find a way to make meaning out of our loss. Connecting with donor recipients is one example. So is creating a memorial fund in a loved one’s name or raising funds on their behalf. Many times we see families asking for donations to a charity instead of giving flowers at a service.Sometimes, purpose following a loss can also be found within. Set new goals for yourself, pursue a new passion, or forge new relationships. By staying focused on the future and trying to do something positive for yourself, you have the power to continue on the path to healing.More from Goalcast:Fallen Police Officer Leaves Eight Children Behind – 13 of His Colleagues Then Show Up at His 8-Year-Old Daughter’s HomeA Heartbreaking Sacrifice: How One Girl’s Tragic Death Saved the Lives of StrangersHer Son’s Dying Wish Was to Have a Child — So This Famous Spanish Actress Made His Dream Come True Herself

Mom Is Forced to Bring Fussy Baby to Class - But Then the Professor Came Over to Her Seat and Did This
Uplifting News

Mom Is Forced to Bring Fussy Baby to Class - But Then the Professor Came Over to Her Seat and Did This

Parenting is a rewarding experience full of highs and lows, great days and not so good days. For new moms, it can also be an isolating and emotional experience. That early period is when you learn who in your community you can rely on, while others surprise you with their compassion and kindness.Unexpected kindness is definitely what one new mom experienced one day when she was forced to bring her baby to class. There, the professor surprised all students in attendance with a sweet gesture.An Unexpected ClassmateKaty Humphrey is more than a marine vet and a college student. She is also a wife and mother to a four-month-old girl named Millie. After spending 14 years as a gunnery sergeant in the Marines, the 33-year-old wanted to go to school for physical therapy and to eventually return to the Army or Navy to help her comrades.“A couple of my friends in Afghanistan got injured, and when I got back, I really felt a calling to go back to help them and other wounded warriors,” she told ABC News.Typically, Humphrey would have a babysitter come watch Millie when she had a class. But one day her babysitter canceled on her right before class started, and Humphrey had no choice but to bring Millie with her. Naturally, things didn’t go so well when Humphrey got there.Not only was Humphrey a few minutes late to her class, but once she arrived and tried to get settled, Millie began fussing and fidgeting. She didn’t want to sit in her carrier, which made it hard for Humphrey to pay attention.A Surprising GestureIn some cases, a professor might ask a student under those circumstances to leave. Dr. Darryn Willoughby was not that professor.“Dr. Willoughby saw me trying to soothe her, so he came by and picked her up for me,” Humphrey explained to the publication. When he did, the baby calmed down.“He told the class how one of the greatest gifts in life is being able to hold a baby,” Humphrey continued. “He talked about how he missed his two girls and being able to hold them when they were little. One is now in college and the other is in high school.”Willoughby continued holding Millie for the rest of the class, and she was perfectly content. The teacher got his baby fix and for a precious period of time, Humphrey was able to focus on the lesson.“Balancing being a student and parent can be tough,” she added, saying she’s grateful for the professor and for her “classmates who have so much empathy and compassion.”It Takes a VillageNaturally, the internet reacted kindly to Willoughby and his actions during a mother’s time of need. The story reinforced the idea that it takes a village to raise a child, and it also inspired others to be kind to new moms and to help one when they see her struggling.Sometimes all it takes is holding open the door for a mom with a stroller, or letting a mom with a fussy kid go in front of you in line at the store. Or perhaps you could hold a baby for a few minutes so that a mom can eat with both hands. Maybe you know a new mom who could use a nap or some time to herself to run errands, and you could offer to babysit for a few hours one day.Not only are you helping the mom out, but you may be surprised how much you benefit from hanging out with a baby, too. Raising kids is hard and full of challenges as well as rewards. But with a village, the experience is just that much more rewarding for everyone.More from Goalcast:Single Mom Skips Class to Take Care of Her Baby – Her Professor’s Response Stuns HerFlight Attendant Finds Passenger’s Baby Crying Out Of Hunger- Steps In With An Outstanding OfferMom Struggling With Fussy Son at Restaurant Decides to Just Leave – Then, a Waitress Takes the Baby to Do This

Woman Sits Next to Pregnant Stranger on Flight - Ends Up Adopting Her Newborn Baby
Uplifting News

Woman Sits Next to Pregnant Stranger on Flight - Ends Up Adopting Her Newborn Baby

They say that sometimes you can just be in the right place at the right time. That was most certainly the case for two strangers on an airplane a few years back when fate brought them together. Unbeknownst to either of these women at the time, their encounter would forever change both of their lives.A Routine FlightThere are multiple Delta flights from Atlanta to Raleigh, New Carolina, every single day. Yet one day in 2018, a woman named Temple Phipps was seated next to a woman named Samantha Snipes, who had missed her connecting flight and wound up on that one instead.The duo hit it off instantly and began sharing their stories. Snipes was eight months pregnant and had just left an abusive boyfriend. She thought maybe her partner would change after she told him she was pregnant, but it just got worse.“One night when he put his hands on me again, I was scared and insecure, and I wasn’t even sure how to live on my own at that point,” Snipes told ABC News. “The position I was in, [my baby] wasn't going to have a very good life. He was going to have a struggling life, and I didn't want any of that for him.”Phipps was sympathetic and revealed that at 42 years old, she had wanted to be a mother but was afraid her time to have a baby had passed. At the time, she was considering fostering or adopting, but as a single mother, all of the agencies she had spoken with passed her by.“Every time I would inquire, they'd said it ‘really needs to be a two-parent household,’” she recalled.A Fateful MeetingAs the plane touched down, the women exchanged numbers and said goodbye. A few days later, Snipes gave birth. She called Phipps and asked her to come visit. There, she asked Phipps if she wanted to adopt her son, Vaughn.“It just felt right talking with her and seeing her with the baby. She looked like she would be a great mother for him and she already looked like she loved him after holding him for an hour. The stuff that I wasn't feeling, she was feeling,” Snipes explained.After the adoption, Snipes stayed close by and continued to be in contact with the new family. She also began a photography company and wrote a blog about the experience. As for Phipps, she and Vaughn continue to make memories as he grows up.“I would just say to anybody, don't give up hope. I won the baby lottery for sure, miracles do happen and I think you can manifest those things. And this is what manifested,” Phipps added.A Complicated JourneyNot everyone’s journey to motherhood has a happy ending. But what’s so touching about this story is that one woman was able to become a mother in the most unexpected way, while someone who wasn’t ready to be a mom found a happy ending for her baby.It reminds those of us who want to be a parent that there is more than one way to be a mom or dad. Many families deal with infertility, while others, like Phipps, feel like the opportunity to have a child of their own has passed them by. But at the end of the day, there are also many children out there who are in need of a loving home.If being a mom or dad feels like your calling and you’re open to another way, this story of two fated women and an unborn baby is all the inspiration you need to always hold onto hope. More from Goalcast:Abandoned In Dumpster As Baby, He Vows To Make Adoptive Dad Proud – Now He’s A MillionaireWoman Has a Dream About the Same Baby for Months – Fights to Adopt Her Husband’s Dead Ex-wife’s Son10-Year-Old Nobody Wanted to Adopt Is Sent to Live With Foster Family – This Would Completely Change Both Their Lives

Upset Neighbor Asks Woman to Take Down Her Lawn Decorations - The Security Camera Catches the Entire Exchange
Uplifting News

Upset Neighbor Asks Woman to Take Down Her Lawn Decorations - The Security Camera Catches the Entire Exchange

Halloween isn't just for kids; in fact, it's one of the few holidays adults get to kick back and join in on the fun. It's no surprise that Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any of the other big holidays can be the most wonderful time of the year or...the most stressful. Between 4 hour turkey dinners, extended family overstaying their welcome, and trying to find time after work to wrap presents, it can be expensive and a lot of effort, that leaves you more depleted than replenished. Halloween however, has all the excitement and none of the pressure! You can participate or sit out, at your own leisure. For people of all ages, Halloween can be one of the best times of the year, because it encourages everyone to embrace their creativity and transform into imaginative characters; from spooky monsters to beloved pop culture icons and everything in between. For so many, the excitement of trick-or-treating or seeing your neighborhood adorned with ghoulish decorations is the best part.But for one "Halloween Lover," who transformed her family home for the festivities -- her eye-catching efforts were met with backlash from one neighbor, who showed up at her door unannounced.Looking At Her Front Yard Halloween Decorations? It Didn’t Make Sense…Salena Webb, a self-proclaimed Halloween enthusiast hailing from Duncan, South Carolina, displayed her passion for the holiday this year by adorning her property with spooky decorations as early as September. The mother of 4, who is pregnant with her fifth child, expresses her creativity in all sorts of way, even taking to TikTok to share her gardening tips!With a love for all things design, it's no surprise Webb's front lawn featured an impressive array of Halloween decor, including a massive spider web, tombstones, and two skeletons bearing a coffin. While Webb was proud of her eerie decorations, they inadvertently sparked an unusual encounter with her neighbor across the street: the adult son of an elderly Russian couple arrived at her doorstep with a surprising request.Her Front Door Security Camera Caught the Whole ThingAfter the shocking interaction, Webb took to TikTok to share her story with her followers and friends alike. The exchange was captured by her Ring security camera and her post received 1.2 million views in less than a week. "He starts to tell me that his father was diagnosed with lung cancer," Webb said of her unexpected conversation with her neighbor. "And then he started to talk about my Halloween decorations. I'm like, 'What do my decorations really have to do with this?'" While it's clear in the video above, Webb wasn't sure what to make of the seemingly odd request in the moment, but upon reflection, more became clear. "This guy is dealing with mortality," Webb realized, when she recalled her neighbor specifically pointed out the wooden casket in her yard. In a follow-up video, Webb pointed out that the elderly man often sits in his garage, directly across the street from the coffin decoration.After giving it thought, Webb decided it was a no-brainer. She took the offending decoration down, prioritizing one stranger's mental health over her own ego. The fierce expecting mama of 4, captioned the video that she "can now understand why they were a little touchy" about her graveyard decor, but her hashtag #loveyourneighbourasyourself that bookends her caption, has the final word. It says it all.When You Don’t Know What to Do, Pause and Reflect, the Answers Will ComeSometimes, when we're taken off guard or caught up in a moment, it can be difficult to know how to react. When her neighbor came knocking at her door, asking her to take down her decorations, Salena Webb didn't quite make the connection at first, as to why her help was important...and understandably so. Life never stops, especially when you're a parent! It's not easy to balance your own schedule and be responsible for your family's schedule, while still trying to make the little moments (like decorating the house for Halloween) count! For this one mom, she put so much effort into making the occasion special for not only her own family, but the whole neighborhood and it would have been easy to dismiss her one neighbor's feelings as overly-sensitive. After all, it's her property and what about every other house on the street? Why should she be the only one who has to concede to her neighbor's wishes?Part of growing up, is knowing when another person's feelings are more important than your freedoms. In fact, it's a big part. Yes, Salena could have respectfully declined her neighbor's request to remove her "morbid" decorations from her lawn and that would have been perfectly OK. She could have even been irritated by his request, and called a friend down the street and asked if the "crazy neighbor" showed up at her door yet. But she didn't do any of those things. She paused and reflected. She sat with her feelings around a delicate situation (on both sides), and that made all the difference. She came to the conclusion that respected her neighbor's struggle. Kindness and compassion won. And when that happens? Everybody wins.

Single Mom Brings Her Sick Baby to Class During a Test - Her Fellow Student Captures Her Professors Surprising Reaction
Uplifting News

Single Mom Brings Her Sick Baby to Class During a Test - Her Fellow Student Captures Her Professors Surprising Reaction

*Featured image conains photo by SHVETS productionKatie Lewis thanks her five-week-old daughter, Allie, for motivating her to finish nursing school. She also thanks her professor from the University of Texas at Tyler-Palestine for holding her while Lewis took an exam.Lewis is a 22-year-old single mother in level four of nursing school. On May 2, Lewis will graduate with a Bachelor's degree of science in nursing, her baby Allie on her hip.How a Woman Juggled Single Motherhood and Nursing SchoolPhoto by Laura GarciaLewis completed 16 weeks of the hands-on portion of nursing school in only six weeks so she could spend more time with her baby once she was born. However, Lewis underwent a complication during her pregnancy, which made her work even more difficult."During my pregnancy I was diagnosed with hyperemesis," she said. "I was throwing up my entire pregnancy all day everyday. During two of my tests I was running out of the testing room to go throw up in a trash can in the hallway. It was really rough. There were times where I was ready to give up on school. It was so hard but Allie just gave me all the motivation to keep going and finish.”Even after Allie was born, Lewis continued to run into obstacles that made it harder for her to obtain her degree. Luckily, she had an incredible support system. Lewis’ mom often took care of Allie when Lewis needed it, and even Lewis’ professors began to step up."Fourteen days after I had Alianna, I had to go back to school to take a test for my leadership class," she explained. "I told Dr. George jokingly that I was mad at her because I had to leave my two-week-old baby for the first time. She said that she would have been happy to hold her. Well, fast forward three weeks and she got to hold her during a test."A Single-Mother Student, a Test and a Very Sick BabyUsually, Lewis has tests at 9:00 am, a time when her own mother can take Allie, since she works as a nurse practitioner from 12 pm to 12 am. However, when the time of her test changed, she struggled to find someone to take her child.“My mom had to work, my dad was out of town and my primary babysitter had school so I texted Dr. George a few days before the test,” Lewis said. "I said, 'Hey Dr. George, I know this is super unconventional but I’m having trouble finding a sitter for Monday for Allie because it’s in the afternoon. I know you had offered before to hold her during a test... is there anyway I can bring her with me?’"Katie LewisDr. George responded quickly.“Ummm you can totally bring her... I’m already excited!” Dr. George wrote back.How a Professor Supported Her Student in a Time of NeedOne thing neither Lewis nor Dr. George expected was a turn in Allie’s health on the day of the test. That day, Allie was diagnosed with an ear infection and un upper respiratory infection.“Dr. George without hesitation just held and rocked my sick and fussy baby throughout the entire test. Teachers like Dr. George make nursing school possible for all of us, but especially single moms. All of our teachers at the Palestine Campus care for us and help us out in any way they can for us to achieve our goals. I’m so grateful for the school and all of our amazing teachers, especially Dr. George.”How Supporting Someone Can Help Them SucceedNatalie Norman, who witnessed Dr. George’s kind act, took a photo and posted it to Facebook. “She has always told us not to miss a test and to call her if we get in a bind," Norman told Good Morning America. "Not only was she OK with it, she was so excited to hold the baby. She held her for at least an hour.”Without the help of those around her, Lewis’s mission to obtain a degree would have been exponentially harder. Dr. George reminds us that we do not have to do anything alone. When presented with the opportunity to support someone who needs it, be like Dr. George.More from Goalcast:Teacher Cries at Work When She Realizes Her Student Is Going to Bed Hungry – Then Jennifer Lopez Gets InvolvedStudent Is Unable to Walk at Graduation, so Teacher Gives Shoes off His Own Feet – But He Asks for a Favor in ReturnTeacher Takes Away 11-Year-Old Girl’s Book and Refuses to Give It Back – Angry Dad Decides to Confront Her

Strangers Stare at Mom Who Couldnt Calm Her Daughters Tantrum at TJ Maxx - Then, One Womans Words Changed Everything
Uplifting News

Strangers Stare at Mom Who Couldnt Calm Her Daughters Tantrum at TJ Maxx - Then, One Womans Words Changed Everything

Nothing makes you feels like you're wearing a badge that says "bad parent" quite like watching the child you've raised have a meltdown in public. If you have kids you know the feeling. No matter how hard you try, when the usual parenting tricks aren't working, it's hard to keep calm and carry on — especially when everyone's eyes are on you.No matter how tough moms can be, even the best of them can feel totally helpless in the face of their child throwing a public tantrum. Here's how one stranger turned a near mommy-meltdown into a moment she'd never forget.Tears at TJ Maxx Left This Mommy Helpless: She Had Nowhere to HideMom.comWhen Sherry White — a successful Mommy blogger who runs The Messy Christian — took her little girl on a TJ Maxx run, this errand was anything but easy-peasy. In fact, it was the drama mama-nightmares are made of!"My daughter just had the worst tantrum of her life. And of course it was at home so I could have home court advantage. Just kidding it was at TJ Maxx."Sherry White"Home court advantage" is a great way of putting it. It's much easier to use positive affirmations and "keep calm" with a frustrated toddler, when we're in the comfort of our own home. Sometimes when our little ones are having a bad day? Even a place like TJ Maxx can feel overstimulating. The only problem is, we don't always know when the storm is coming and we don't have time to "batten down the hatches." When she took her little girl out for some mother-daughter-bonding time, this mommy blogger had no idea lightning and thunder were about to strike — in the middle of the discount cookware section!Trying to Control the Situation — “All My Tricks Failed”No matter what they teach you in daycare — even LAMAZE can't prepare you for this! Even though Sherry had done everything she could to raise her daughter into a respectful young lady, there was no getting around it. Mommy's little angel was throwing a full on tantrum and could not be reasoned with. Sherry admits "every parenting trick" fell to the wayside. "My heart was beating fast and I was trying not to lose my cool." On this particular day, in this particular moment her little girl was simply "irrational." Unfortunately for the strangers pushing their shopping carts by, with their noses turned up...that's the only snapshot of Sherry's parenting they were seeing. Needless to say for a mom who's trying her best? The judgement was tearing her apart. After trying her best to be patient and calm her daughter down, Sherry was at her wits end. She did the only thing she could think of and tried to move her daughter to a quieter location, away from shaming eyes — and bleeding ears. She had to wait for the storm to pass."I scooped her off to the bathroom trying to recoup and I realized I was going to have to just hold on and wait for it to pass because she was so far gone."Facebook/ Sherry WhiteEven then no matter how hard she tried to "control the situation," Sherry couldn't overcome the shame she felt as strangers passed by her, without saying a word."Person after person walked passed us and I could feel the judgement like the sun burning a hole in me. I just knew they had to be thinking what kind of brat have I raised because I was thinking the same thing. She was being defiant and angry and it was not pretty."Sherry WhiteBut as it turns out...one person's words of affirmation can make up for 100 judgemental glances. Which is exactly what happened, when one older woman put a reassuring hand on Sherry's shoulder. Her simple words changed everything.A Reminder We’re “Doing Great” Never Gets OldIn her viral post, the beloved mommy blogger shared her story and the one older woman who felt like her guardian angel. "This lady a little older than myself walked by and smiled and she came over and squeezed my arm and whispered it's okay, you're doing great."Sherry WhiteTo even Sherry's own surprise, these unexpected words of kindness brought tears to this tough mommy's eyes — literally. "I quickly turned away from her before she could see the tears forming in my eyes and falling down my face."Sherry reflected the shame she was overwhelmed with in that moment. In her own, honest words, "felt like a total mommy failure with an out of control kid." Her struggle was more than relatable. Looking back it was easy for her to find the humor in the situation, "there we were both crying," Sherry said of her daughter and her — for different reasons of course.The fact of the matter is, Sherry's no different than most moms. Trying to juggle cooking, cleaning, pick up, drop off there's a reason why motherhood feels like having to do it all. Don't get me wrong, dads help out too. Dads are always there to answer the important questions like: "Where's mom?" — kidding! Kind of.All’s Well That Ends WellEventually the stormed passed — as it always does. Sherry's little girl calmed down and they were able to finish up their shopping at TJ Maxx and head home.Sherry snapped a pic of her and her sleeping daughter in her car seat, poking fun of the stressful situation. "I guess she was sleepy " she captioned the shot. Even though Sherry looked for her guardian angel around the store she was nowhere to be seen. "I was hoping I'd see that lady and say thank you, but she was gone." Still, Sherry reminded her followers how much the seemingly small gesture meant. "I know a lot of times we don't know what to say to people when we see them going through a moment like this, but from now on take a cue from that lady at TJ Maxx."Even the Strongest of Us Have Moments of WeaknessEven though Sherry writes a mommy blog that is all about embracing the imperfections of parenting and finding the beauty in the challenge — it didn't stop her from having her own moment of weakness.That's why sharing stories like Sherry's are so powerful. It's an important reminder of the age old joke that even a therapist needs a therapist! Even the toughest mommy needs some words of encouragement!"A smile and an encouraging word goes a long way."Sherry WhiteEven though averting your gaze may sometimes feel like the most respectful solution — after all, you weren't judging her, right? — Sherry's story is a reminder that sometimes there's power in going old school Good Samaritan!Sure, we can walk a mile in someone's shoes — but the most important thing isn't to forget the blisters we got along the way, once they've healed. Being neutral is great, but being positive is even better. More from Goalcast:Steve Harvey Realizes His Son Has Given Him a Gift He Didn’t Pay For – But That Wasn’t All, There Was More to ComeThieves Find Out They Stole From a Sick Child – Immediately Send a 4 Page Apology LetterRacist Clerk Makes 10-Year-Old Boy Cry – When His Father Finds Out, He Decides to Confront Him

Mom of 3 Is Overwhelmed Taking Care of Her 3 Kids Alone on Flight - Until a Guardian Angel Comes to the Rescue
Uplifting News

Mom of 3 Is Overwhelmed Taking Care of Her 3 Kids Alone on Flight - Until a Guardian Angel Comes to the Rescue

Traveling with kids can be a daunting task, especially when you're flying solo. The idea of managing children, luggage, and all the unexpected surprises that can come with parenthood on a plane is enough to make any parent anxious.For Summer Erdel, a military spouse and a mother of three, her recent cross-country journey from California to Raleigh was one such adventure that she was dreading. Little did she know, a guardian angel would appear when she needed it the most.How a Stranger Became a Mom’s Guardian AngelThe trip was no cakewalk, consisting of multiple connecting flights that pushed her children to their limits. As Summer explained, "by the third flight, my kids were fed up!" Frustration was mounting, but relief was just around the corner.That's when Jenny Martin, the guardian angel, entered her life. Jenny, a mother of four, could immediately sense Summer's predicament and stepped in with a heart full of understanding and empathy. She offered her assistance in the most selfless way possible.Summer recalls their interaction to WRAL, "She let me know she was a mom of four and that she understands my frustrations and how hard it is on the kiddos. She said she could help me however I needed."Jenny's acts of kindness didn't stop there. As the flight progressed, she held Summer's baby and took charge of checking in the stroller during boarding. Her guidance allowed Summer to focus on getting herself and her toddler settled on the plane, assuming that her need for assistance was over. Her guardian angel was committed to making her journey as smooth as possible.Summer continued, "Since it's Southwest, we can choose our seats, so she offered to sit in front of me, so that way if my toddler kicked the seats, it'd be okay." The empathy and thoughtfulness Jenny displayed were remarkable, to say the least.How a Passenger Went Above and Beyond for a Fellow MomAs the flight continued, tragedy struck in the form of a vomiting baby -- four times. This could have easily been a breaking point for any parent, but not for Summer. She found herself overwhelmed, covered in baby vomit, and on the verge of tears. That's when Jenny, without hesitation, stepped in once more.She held the baby, unbothered by the mess, and simply told Summer, "I got the kids. You go take care of yourself." The kindness and understanding she showed in that moment was a lifeline for a stressed-out mother.Jenny's support didn't stop with babysitting; she went above and beyond. She entertained the kids, lent Summer her jacket, and rocked the baby to sleep. Her unwavering commitment to making Summer's journey more bearable was nothing short of extraordinary.When the flight landed, Jenny didn't just stop at helping with the baby; she walked off the plane holding the baby, placed the baby in her stroller, and escorted Summer to baggage claim and ultimately to her husband.How One Stranger Proved the Importance of SisterhoodRemarkably, the two mothers never exchanged contact information. With no way to reach out directly to the woman who had helped her so selflessly, Summer turned to Facebook, where she penned a heartfelt message about the mysterious "Jenny" who had been her savior. The post became a testament to the profound bond that connects mothers."Motherhood is a sisterhood," she wrote. "I learned that tonight."The power of social media worked its magic, and the post eventually made its way to Jenny. The two mothers reunited over Zoom, rekindling their connection in the virtual world. It was a reunion filled with gratitude and emotions.In a world often marked by skepticism and cynicism, this story is a shining example of the beauty of human kindness. It's a reminder that the bonds of motherhood are universal, transcending boundaries and backgrounds. When one mother extends a hand to another, the result is a heartwarming tale that inspires us all to be a little kinder and a little more compassionate, just like Jenny.Guardian angels might just come in the form of strangers, but their kindness can leave an indelible mark on our lives. Summer Erdel's journey was transformed not by superheroes in capes but by a fellow mother who understood her struggles and offered a helping hand without expecting anything in return.This heartwarming tale is a testament to the enduring power of empathy, compassion, and the beautiful sisterhood of motherhood.More from Goalcast:Man in First Class Notices Passenger Waiting to Board Flight – Stops Her and Utters a Sentence That Confuses HerFlight Attendant Notices Grieving Mom and Hands Her a Note – Little Did She Know He Would Become Her SolaceMan Is Unable to Calm His Fussy Niece on Flight – Then, a Passenger Approaches Them and Reaches for the Overhead Bin