Tag Archives: Motherhood

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All you need is love. Three areas of love, to live by.

I’m a true believer that all you need is love. Sometimes I actually have to remind myself that I need a little money and some amenities to survive in this world. Love is what fuels me buts it’s also the reward. I remind myself daily to focus on these aspects of love.

Love for Someone

Love for Something

Love for Yourself



Love for Someone

Whether you’re married or single is not important. Loving someone is the key. Anyone. A friend, a parent, a sibling. Not the kind of love that brings you together a few times a year or gets you a birthday text. The kind of love that you put work into. The love that is above and beyond a text or Facebook post. Love that they can feel no matter where they are or who they’re with. That’s how you love someone. Real commitment and dedication. The kind of love that’s an action, that’s hard to give to a lot of people at once. So choose your people. Who do you love? Who needs your love? My people right now are my daughters and of course my husband. My mother too. I’ve always believed that loving someone was not the difficult part. Making sure they feel loved is the challenge. So, challenge yourself.

Love for something

My thing is the steelpan. My instrument. An instrument I played since I was a child. Recently, a student asked at an assembly “why do I feel a warm breeze like I’m at the beach or somewhere nice when I hear you play?” She had never heard a steelpan at the beach so I told her that feeling was called joy and if you enjoy being at the beach then you’re relating this sound to a happy memory. That’s what the instrument does.

I’ve never witnessed anything else in my lifetime that makes so many people so happy. Well, maybe…s’mores. I’ve also never witnessed anything that brings together so many different types of people. Because of this love, I’ve become extremely dedicated to teaching about the steelpan and preserving the legacy of one of its pioneers, my father.

 

Love for yourself

I’ve always been a big advocate for loving yourself. Thinking you’re beautiful, knowing your worth and having pride in your story. I believe that I was blessed with self-esteem and pride. Growing up in America in the 80’s as a poor, immigrant, dark-skinned girl is not for the faint of heart, but somehow when I looked in the mirror, I loved what I saw… a pretty, strong, smart, talented and a very hard-working girl with big goals and a giving spirit. I knew these things about myself then and years later I still believe them to be true even if at times it’s wavered.

Growing up, I saw that women who looked like me were not perceived or portrayed as having those qualities. So not only did I have the challenge of continuing to believe that about myself, but I was also faced with the challenge of defending why I believed that about myself, especially from those with opposing views based on what they were taught.

Still today, I encounter people who are offended by my self-esteem and confidence. It’s  challenged, as if I don’t deserve it or it somehow makes them lesser than. I recognize that their behavior stems from how they in turn feel about themselves or the biases of that individual. Biases they sometimes don’t even recognize they have. However, I’m raising young girls who are even more confident than I was. Their strength is what pushes me to continue to not only be a great example but to always overcome.

 

All in All

Give your love, make sure it’s felt.

Find a passion and nourish your soul.

When you love yourself, you are better able to love others.

 

Happy Valentine’s Day xoxo

 

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What Am I Thankful For? Me.

I’ve seen so much hate, contempt and disrespect lately. Over the last two weeks I’ve cried and questioned everything and everyone. What I’ve come to realize (what i think I’ve always known) is that I can and will do more. I’m demanding that the high standards I have for myself will have to be upheld by those around me and I’m positive that love and kindness is the greatest way overcome hate and indifference. While I could spend the rest of my life reciting what I’m thankful for, right now, in these times it’s who I am and what I believe in that I’m truly thankful for. I’m blessed to have these traits…

  • I am thankful that I know in my heart that I do not judge or have prejudices against other people.
  • I am thankful that I see good in others until they show me otherwise.
  • I am thankful to be a lifelong learner. Not too proud to improve my knowledge and understanding of the things I don’t know.   
  • I am thankful that I can give to others without hesitation. 
  • I am thankful I am empathetic and compassionate. 
  • I am thankful for my dedication to manners and proper etiquette. 
  • I am thankful that I can see pain through the behavior of others and treat them accordingly.
  • I am thankful that I want to hear the stories of others, expanding my understanding of the people throughout the world.
  • I am thankful that I can work hard. For myself, for my family and for others. 
  • I am thankful I can see greatest in others.
  • I am thankful that I feel best being kind, generous and supportive.
  • I am thankful for my dedication to children and young people, understanding that they are the most important.
  • I am thankful for my sense of pride for who I am and where I’m from.
  • I am thankful that I have an overwhelming need to give, receive and surround myself with love.
  • I am thankful that I know how blessed I am. Especially to have my family, my husband David and my daughters. 

It’s moments like these that we see how strong we are and the impact we can have. We are powerful. And in the words of my favorite Marvel Superheroe’s Uncle…”with great power comes great responsibility”
Happy Thanksgiving!

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My Weekend…Planned

I can’t even believe it’s Friday?! The last three weeks have been nonstop! Work, travel, family obligations. Truly nonstop. I can’t really complain though, there’s always so much to celebrate. My girls are doing well. David and I are healthy and happy and new opportunities are coming along. I’ll be blogging for Visit Pittsburgh announced this week and Barrels to Beethoven received its first grant from the PA Council on the Arts.  There’s no break in site! Both in a good way and a way that makes me a little nervous. Luckily we have an exciting weekend ahead.


Friday

I’ll spend the morning and early afternoon finishing up my first popup with UpTo. We’ve spent the last week assisting business owners in Sharpsburg. A cute town outside of the city that has quickly become my favorite place. Next week we’ll head to Homewood. But I’ll definitely be back, Sharpsburg!

Friday afternoon I head to my space to practice and pack up the instruments for the evening. 

Friday night I’m heading to Mr. Smalls Funhouse for a CD release party for Brett Staggs. Rhythm ‘n’ Steel drummer/bandmate just happens to be an incredibly talented singer, songwriter and musician. Barrels to Beethoven will open the night by teaching guests to play the steelpan. We’ve got some cool songs in store to teach. I’m so excited for this event and so very happy for Brett. I’m grateful to know a musician like him. Talented, dedicated, light hearted. Funny guy. And not to mention my daughters’ new favorite singer. They know every word of every song. 


Saturday

Saturday morning I’ll wake up early to do some laundry, clean up and finish some work. After a meeting for the upcoming Maker Faire, David and I will head to Sewickley for an event with Congressman John Lewis. A living legend and known activist and leader of the civil rights movement. I’m so excited to hear him speak. There’s so much ignorance being spread, this is the sort of rhetoric my mind and heart needs right now. 


Sunday 

Sunday will be the best day of the weekend. I’m really looking forward to my niece, Gianna’s confirmation mass. I’m so honored she asked me to be her sponsor and I hope I can be a guiding light in her life. She is just the sweetest girl. The kind of girl that makes you smile. This summer we got to spend more time together. She helped my mother in law babysit the girls, which was so comforting to me to know she was there with Sofia to help. She also attended my Pan Camp. She not only assisted with the younger students but learned to play the steelpan and was so good! She’s a blessing to this world I can’t wait to see what kind of young woman she grows up to be. I pray I can play a positive role in that. After mass we’ll all gather at my mother in laws for brunch. With hopefully some relaxation to follow.


All in All

It’s been an incredible last few weeks, few months, year. Ups and downs for sure but clear signs that hard work, prayer and positivity will allow me to achieve my goals and bring my family lots of joy. The temperatures are changing but my season is changing as well. I am working toward change and feeling the shift. I have goals in mind but also praying for guidance. I’ve learned that when you feel it’s time for a change you have to move with it. Don’t fight to keep things the same. It’s a strange feeling to be moving through your days like a raft in the river working hard, getting things done but feeling like you don’t fully have control. That’s when you literally just go with the flow and wait to see what comes next. I’m waiting. I’m praying. I’m excited. 

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Back to School

What happened to summer?! My oldest daughter started school last week. My younger two started school today. Back to school this year was quite bitter sweet for so many reasons. Although summers for me as a mother and entrepreneur are rough to say the least. A constant juggle between taking good care of my girls, having fun and getting my work done. The constant scheduling and focus on time management is truly worth it because our family time is precious. Not just to me and my husband, but to our my girls too. We truly love to be together. I thank God everyday and will do everything I can do make it happen and ensure that lasts. 

However school time is great too! Stella, entering third grade was the most excited of all of my girls to go back. Sofia, who is a gift of a child, also happens to be teenager, so there’s that. And my little Cece who seemed excited to go back and see her friends, held my leg for a few seconds too long this morning. Long enough to indicate she was scared and long enough for tears to produce…in my eyes, not hers. She was okay a few minutes later, giving me a big hug and a tap on the nose and cheeks (that’s what I do to her) before I left. 

For the most part I’m happy to start the school year. I know, well I hope, I’m sending my girls with the tools they need to succeed and I’m excited for all of the new experiences they’re going to have. 

This summer we talked a lot about being kind and working hard. Empathy and Motivation. I think you’ll go very far in life if you have those characteristics. 

I try to set a good example for my children not just tell them, but show them. I think that’s the best way to teach. They see me setting goals and accomplishing them. This summer even my youngest mentioned that I had set goals like new clients for Straightforward Consulting and pan camp for Barrels to Beethoven and accomplished both. There’s nothing like hearing “I’m proud of you mommy” from your kids. That alone is a great motivator. #FanClub

They also see me constantly helping others. I tell them even if you have nothing at all, you can still give someone your time. When I see them excited to do something kind for a family member, friend, or stranger, it really warms my heart. It’s such a blessing to see your child being kind and helping others. I hope that quality stays with them, always.

So I’m sending my girls back to school with with confidence, empathy, determination to do well and pride. I’m praying they do their best, are treated well, treat others well and truly enjoy themselves. And, I’m taking a moment (literally just a moment) to change course, adjust to my new daily routine and make a plan to achieve my new goals. 

Here’s to a great school year! 

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My Weekend…Planned

Today is going to be a great day… I hope! Crazy, but great. I have some work to finish in the morning but for the most part I’m trying to take it easy. 

At noon the girls and I head to Sewickley for our last day with the Creative Summer Experience camp kids. It’s been a wonderful 2 weeks with amazing kids. But that drive! Ugh, I can’t. 

Today is the end of camp showcase where the students will show the art they’ve created and the music they learned on the steelpan. I’m so excited for them because they have done such a wonderful job and because they get to perform with my band mate, Brett, on drums. They are going to rock it!

After the show we pack up all of instruments and head over to Squirrel Hill to set up for our own Pan Camp next week. 

Friday night I’ll spend putting the finishing touches on bridal shower centerpieces for my dear friend Emily. It’s incredible that we’ve known each other for so long. We lost touch (I wish Facebook was around 15 years ago) and luckily reconnected. I’m so happy for her, so proud of her and excited to be a bridesmaid in her wedding. I haven’t been able to be there for every special moment but I am so happy to contribute to her shower and celebrate with her. 

Saturday
Saturday’s are for showers. Yay Emily!

Saturday evening believe it or not we have no plans. Wait do we? That doesn’t feel right at all. If I’m supposed to be somewhere, please let me know.

Sunday

Sunday morning we are definitely heading to mass. We need to reconnect as a family. Sunday afternoon we’ll have brunch as a family. Then it’s time to wrap up any loose ends for Pan Camp. I’m looking forward to hosting our own camp. We have worked so hard the last few years building Barrels to Beethoven. It’s a blessing to see our work reach so many in such a positive and impactful way. 

All in All

I have to say, I’m so proud of myself. I am actually impressed by my own perseverance. Starting a business then shortly after launching Barrels to Beethoven has not been easy, not for one moment. We have sacrificed so much and worked so hard. We’ve missed out on a lot. 

However, strangely in the last two days, I’ve been told randomly that I was a great mother. Those words from people that I respect dearly are so powerful, yet somewhat hard to hear. Sometimes I think I’m a great mother because of the children I’ve raised this far. They are truly wonderful. But I fear I’m not a good mother for the people they may turn out to be. Is that weird? Either way with all of the mixed feelings, strife and worry of motherhood, those compliments really made me feel good. 

Being a good parent takes lots of sacrifice, we all know this. So I sacrifice a lot. In turn, have get a lot a whole lot. I get love, because I give them love. I get admiration because they see my work, and how hard I work. I get support because I support them in everything they do. And I get the occasional dance party in the kitchen. Well, I mean you know. I can dance. 

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My Weekend…Planned

It’s been a while since I’ve posted anything. Not that I haven’t been writing over the lasts few months, I’ve written a ton. With all that’s happening in our country and around the world, writing is all I could do. Not for others but for myself. It’s the best way for me to release and makes sense of what I experience. 

However, this morning before my husband left for work he kissed me and asked “are you ready for a great weekend?” I am, and I want to share it. 



Friday

Today started out kind of relaxing. Breakfast with the girls, a little cleaning but I’m taking it easy. My idea of easy may be a little twisted but I’ll take it. 

This morning I’ll be checking off my to do list in preparation for our event tonight. My Makers and Music event is in partnership with Style Week Pittsburgh and Social Status Boutique. We’re gathering to celebrate some of our city’s most creative people. It started with a photoshoot and a great group of people. The incredible photographer Juan Carlos Silva, made everyone feel great and look great. Now we get to see the images, celebrate the group and learn more about what they do. 

After the happy hour event and clean up, 😩 I’m going to head over to Tako for a margarita and a song. David is spinning there until 1am. I might stay for a late night taco too. 


Saturday

No Saturday morning commitments = big (Belgium) waffles, bacon and maybe a mimosa. AKA…My favorite breakfast. David makes the most amazing waffles with help from Stella and Cece, while I prepare the mixed berries and Sofia sets a “fancy” table as she calls it. I love these mornings with my family. 

Saturday afternoon we are back to our weekly historic landmark search. Stella’s idea has become one of our favorite activities this summer. We’ve had so much fun and the girls (and their parents) have learned a lot about Pittsburgh. We know…#NerdAlert

Saturday evening another great event! My band Rhyhm ‘n’ Steel will be performing at Musicalidades, David will also DJ the event. A fundraising event hosted by Our Rhythm a project by my new friends Gabriel, Lucas and Cat. Our Rhythm will be a documentary film telling the stories of  7 musicians around the world. I am happy to support such a wonderful project but even happier to support such great people. 



Sunday 

We are definitely sleeping in on Sunday. Mass at noon will be a great way to reflect on the past week and prepare for the week ahead. Although my faith is not based on just going to church. I like the gathering, singing in unison, listening to our priest and thinking about ways I can do and be better. 

All in All

We’re going to have a typical Pugliano Family weekend action packed and fun. I have always been stuck between being  afraid of all that’s bad in the world and how it impacts my family and creating an amazing life for my girls, free of the worry and the sadness I feel. It’s so difficult but I look at them and I know I’m doing well. It’s more important for them to feel loved than anything else. And they do. Not to sound corny but love is the key. First self love. Knowing yourself, loving yourself, taking care of yourself and improving yourself. Then loving others. Being empathetic, supportive and kind, to all. That will go such a long way. Try and see. 

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My Father’s Day Weekend…Planned

Friday 

Today has already been a hectic day, early morning emails, getting Sofia to her last day of  school (finally), vacuuming and washing the car and folding laundry. Yes, all before 9:30am ( actually 9:21am) and with a 4 year old in deep tantrum mode. Mornings like today, I am not only reminded of how much I do, but also how much I can handle. 
This afternoon has to be all about Sofia. It’s finally her last day of school. The last day of 7th grade! It’s been a long school year. Especially the last few weeks while her little sisters have already been enjoying summer vacation. Sofia has worked hard and we are extremely proud of her, not only for her great grades but for her spirit and amazing disposition. I can’t believe she’ll be going into the 8th grade!

Tonight, if we can gather ourselves together the girls and I will attend a fashion show produced by one of my friends, while david heads off to DJ.


Saturday

Tomorrow morning we start our newest activity. Stella would like to learn about all of the historic landmarks in Pittsburgh (I know, this child is pure magic) so every Saturday morning we will head off to visit and learn about a different landmark. This is Stella’s plan and I’m going with it. I told her maybe we could go another day during the week, but she specifically selected Saturday morning so that Sofia and Daddy could be there and I wouldn’t have any gigs. Again, this child. 

Saturday afternoon we’ll head to the Art Institute student fashion show. Luckily I ran into the fabulous Dept. Chair and she told me about the show. I’m excited to see what these amazing students have created!

Saturday evening we’re heading to another family graduation party. Many of the people there are family members we don’t see very often so it will be nice to see them and for the girls to see how big their fathers family really is! They love family gatherings!


Sunday

Sunday is Father’s Day and we can’t wait to celebrate! David will DJ in the morning for brunch at Meat and Potatoes so we’ll have to wait until the afternoon to shower him with love and appreciation. We’ll miss him but we get extra time to prepare an amazing afternoon for him. 


All in All

Love and family. What more do you need? According to my husband and father, David Pugliano…nothing. It’s Fathers Day weekend so we get to give him even more love and show our gratitude, only slightly  different from our regular family time. 

We love him so much. He loves us so much. I can not only feel it, I can see it in his eyes when he looks at me. When he looks at our girls there’s no hiding the love and they have the same sparkle when they look at him. I am blessed to feel the kind of love he has for me but watching him as a father is the greatest joy. David and his girls have a beautiful relationship. It’s somewhat magical, and kind of unbelievable. I love that. As our girls get older I am even more grateful that David is my partner, and the father of my children. He gives them the kind of love and support that almost seems impossible. He has their back, and they certainly have his. Growing up with that kind of comfort, support and love is so important for all children and I am beyond thankful for the father my girls have. 

Special shoutout to my father and father in-law. ❤️

Happy Fathers Day to all!

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My Weekend…Planned

This week, although a day shorter, brought a workload twice as long. This weeks to do list has already been added onto next week list!


Friday 

This morning we’re cleaning and preparing for summer. In the afternoon the girls and I will head to my office for a few hours. 

Friday the girls will go to their grandparents house for the night. David and I both have gigs. First up? “WhatsUp” by artists Sarah Zeffiro. A collab with another artist Tom Mosser opening at Irma Freeman Center for Imagination in conjunction with Unblurred on Penn. What’s great about this gig? Not only do I get to perform for a great friend but with great friends. My bandmate Brett Staggs and I will be mixing it up and doing something a little different. Joining us during night, my husband David (yes on Steelpan) and another one of my incredibly talented friends, Ayesha Scott will sing. Join us for a jam session at 10, bring your instrument!


Saturday 

In the morning we’re meeting with another talented friend, artist John Eastman. David, John and I are collaborating on a project that am I completely moved and excited about. 

Saturday evening we’re heading to “Full Bloom” the Kelly Strayhorn Theatre’s annual fundraiser. We’ve supported KST and this event every year since my sister took the position of Executive Director somewhere around 8 years ago.  This is always a fun event. 


Sunday



Sunday morning we’re heading to the Carnegie Library Extravaganza with our girls. Not only is this a fun event but Stella will be recognized during a ceremony for the “I Do What I Can” Awards presented by WQED, which she received earlier this year for being smart, kind and helpful. I’m so proud of her. In addition to recording a radio interview with SLB Se also gets to take part in this ceremony.?Stella is a wonderful girl; talented, intelligent, inquisitive, kind and so much more. She’s impressive. We’re proud of her and happy to see her recognized at such a young age. 

Sunday evening we’ll gather once again with family to celebrate a high school graduation. One of many family gathering this summer!


All in All

I’ve been thinking a lot about the people that get a lot of praise in our society and what they’re praised and recognized for. I don’t want my children to get caught up in thinking that celebrity, fame, money and materials things lead to happiness or relate to importance or self worth. I’ve never been impressed by those things I’m not sure why others are. 

Who impresses me? Stella impresses me.  Beyoncé impressed me (probably for really different reasons than the screaming fans in the from row.) Entrepreneurs that are great parents and family centered, impress me. Musicians and artists that show exceptional talent, live from their art and share their art with the next generation, impress me. People who work hard, have confidence, achieve but are still kind and dedicate time to others. That really impresses me.

I’m not impressed by people that have accomplished a lot but failed to be there for their children. Or people who are seen as great outside of the home but struggle with relationships within their family. I’m not impressed by those who give a lot to strangers over their family. Or people that aren’t loyal to the people who have been there for them. I am not impressed by ignorance and selfishishness and false praise. 

I am impressed by people who understand recognition means nothing if you’re miserable behind closed doors. And those that realize that pedestals and praise are insignificant if you don’t have real relationships. I’m impressed by mothers and fathers that work extremely hard and raise great kids. By families that support one another. By couples that accomplish separately but achieve together. By families fighting illnesses with conviction. Strong relationships, unbreakable bonds, family first, exceptional achievements, giving hearts…That impresses me. I hope these things continue to impress my children. 

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My Weekend Planned…

The last time I shared my weekend plans I was naive enough to believe I couldn’t add much more to our already packed lives. Well, I was wrong. Since then, we’ve totally increased our workload, overwhelming so. Caught between looking for a break and understanding we’re on the horizon of great things to come. With that said, weekends like this are a welcomed opportunity to slow down and celebrate the ones I love. 


Friday

I’m so lucky to start off my Friday with preschoolers. My youngest daughter performed in her class play this morning. I couldn’t wait to see what sort of show 3 and 4 year olds could pull off. Eventhough I’m sick super duper sick I was excited to cheer on my little Cece. After that I’ll head to my new office (yay) to wrap up work for the week and prepare for my steelpan lessons later today. The early afternoon will be all about party planning for my daughter Sofia’s 13th birthday party on Saturday. Say a prayer that I can get everything done, I hate being sick when there’s so much to do. 😩


Saturday

I know we’ll be busy running around on Saturday morning. The only thing crazier than planning an event, is planning an event that you’re also performing at. And, crazier than that? Planning an event that you and your husband are both performing at, especially with three kids and a scarily long list of “to do’s”  to check off. Nonetheless, my daughter asked for her father to DJ and her mothers band to perform at her party so that’s exactly what she’ll get. I mean, the girl obviously recognizes talent when she sees it. 

Minor (just kidding) major detail…it’s also my husband David’s birthday (Awwhhh) so I’ll be planning some special surprises for him as well. 😏
Saturday night,  it’s party time! I’m looking forward to seeing my daughter celebrated. Her smile literally lights up the room. She is the kind of girl you want to give the world to, but she would never  ask for it. I can’t wait to celebrate her special birthday with family and friends. 

  


Sunday
Sunday morning we’ll get up and head to mass…although as I’m writing this it’s seems very unlikely so we’ll probably go to mass on Sunday evening. After a early afternoon birthday party for a school friend. We’ll continue the birthday celebrations. I have something special planned for my husband. Sunday evening it’s back to our normal routine. A few loads of laundry, pressing informs for the week and packing lunches. We learned a long time ago that even when we have special moments our responsibilities don’t go away. Continuing to commit to our responsibilities and doing what we’re supposed to do it what helps up to be successful and achieve so much. We all have 24 hours in a day. I do a lot in those hours and in turn, get a lot back.  



All in All

I’m really excited to celebrate David and Sofia. May 21st is such a special day for them and for me. Two people that not only changed my life, but defined it were born on this day. 

  
Sixteen years ago on May 21, I enjoyed a first date with an amazing guy. We laughed so much and talked to each other like we had known one another our whole lives. Although we had an amazing time, David didn’t mention it was his birthday until the end of our date. A unselfish move to not make the day all about him.  
Thirteen years ago on May 21st my first baby girl was born. In that moment something change in the universe. I have understood my purpose ever since. Sofia was a little girl that looked at you with years of knowledge in her eyes and so much joy in her smile. She is thoughtful and patient, loving and kind. She sees the best in everyone, even those who don’t always show their best. We are blessed to know her, honored to raise her and grateful to be in her presence. 

I have loved both David and Sofia from the first moment we met. But the love I have received back from both of them is indescribable. There are no words for our love and our bond. I didn’t know you could connect with someone so deeply until I met my husband. And I never knew you could love someone so much until Sofia was born. I am blessed to have a family to love and care for and I’m grateful to know the power of love. Happy Birthday to my dear husband and amazing daughter!