Red Stick Mom

At Red Stick Mom, we are on a journey to continuously learn about the importance of supporting our neighbors in marginalized communities where disparity is far too prevalent, specifically in the black community. We’ve been happy to share in supporting various black-owned local businesses and are having conversations with our kids about race. We want to continue to show support which is why are highlighting local organizations who are working diligently to serve our neighbors of color in the Greater Baton Rouge area. Our hope is to raise awareness about the great work they are already doing and share it with others. We are excited to put the spotlight on an amazing non-profit organization called Tankproof. How did Tankproof start? "We're the Thomas...

I have two little guys. There are currently 5 and 2 years old. Their baby sister is 6 months old.   Ever since our first son was born, there has been an emphasis that he NEEDS to be tough. Not necessarily from me or even my husband, but from other people’s perspectives. We’ve been told all sorts of (unnecessary) things to support that society NEEDS our little guys to be tough right now- at 2 and 5 years old.   My typical thought process is that they (the boys and the girl) have their whole lives to learn to be tough; right now they can just be my little buddies and they don’t need to be tough because Mama Bear is ferocious and strong...

So here is a fair *Trigger warning* ... these words may incite rage, goosebumps or uncontrollable tears. Can we all agree that the following words/phrases will not be joining us for 2021?! We are leaving these ratchet concepts behind in ratchet 2020. They are unwelcome in 2021. Virtual Synchronous/asynchronous Exposure Quarantine Contagion Infectious Essential / non-essential Symptomatic / asymptomatic Transmissibility Epidemic Pandemic Virus Lockdown Mask Unprecedented New normal Trying times Isolation PPE Spread Outbreak Endemic Fever Zoom Social Distancing Pod Novel Protocol Y’all better start making use of a thesaurus because you won’t be able to “spread” your butter. Hercules won’t even be able to “Go the ‘distance.’” Better find a synonym for all of these! What other words would you...

I went to urgent care twice in February and once in March. My husband went three times in one week in March. Each time we went, we were tested for some common illnesses like flu or strep, and all the tests were negative. Our symptoms ranged from feeling so weak we couldn’t eat or even walk to our door, to coughing so hard at night we couldn’t catch our breath. The coughing fits could easily last for 15 minutes straight with no relief. Then came the stomach issues that were severe, and cold sweats. All of this we were told was an upper respiratory infection. Finally, I passed out from trying to walk to the bathroom and had to be...

Disclosure :: this guide is brought to you courtesy of our sponsors The Baton Rouge Clinic and The Dunham School. Baton Rouge Area Fall Family Events Guide 2020 ***We make every effort to ensure that our guides are accurate; however unforeseen changes can take place, especially related to COVID-19. We suggest you always call the organization or event venue ahead of time to confirm event information.*** We maintain a full calendar of events here. If you have a great family-friendly event to add to the Red Stick Mom calendar, please do that here. Special Thank You To Our Guide Title Sponsors :: The Dunham School is a Christian college preparatory school serving students in PK3-12th grade. Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, the school is not hosting a traditional...