My name is Rhea (pronounced re-ah). I am a wife and a mother of two. If you ever met me then you would learn three things: I am a follower of Christ, I'm from St. Croix USVI, and depending on if we are eating or near music, you will catch me dancing. God laid it on my heart to write two books to help others, Dear Mommy You're not alone and Proverbs 31 she's not perfect. I am a transparent momma trying to help others.
2. How/why did you become a blogger and author?
I became a blogger and author because I wanted to help moms come to know Christ. Writing relatable and transparent posts brings me joy. Moms need to know they're not alone. It helps to give a different perspective.
3. Can you give a brief overview of your books, Dear Mommy you're not alone and Proverbs 31 she's not perfect?
Dear Mommy you're not alone was written for first-time moms to help them with the changes that happen after delivery. Proverbs she's not perfect is a 15-day devotional written for moms and wives to dive into the imperfect life of Proverbs 31 woman. In 15 days, women get to deepen their relationship with Christ and gain practical lessons.
4. When you wrote Dear Mommy You're Not Alone, what did you hope to accomplish by sharing your experience?
I hope it made other moms feel less alone. As moms, we go through different scenarios that might make us feel lonely. Sharing my stories about postpartum depression struggles with breastfeeding, and more has helped moms feel seen and understand God is their help. Most importantly I wanted moms to know that God is their source of help. Hopefully, the book helps to create or deepen a relationship with Christ.
5. What led you to create the Dear Mommy Devotional Podcast?
In the beginning stages of motherhood, it was hard for me to find time with God. I was so tired! Listening to sermons from Priscilla Shirer helped me fall back in love with God. I listened to her while I cooked or during other chores. Being able to feed my spirit man while I checked things off my to-do list was so rewarding. So, I wanted to create the same for other moms. Someone said when they read my books it's like I am sitting next to them having a good conversation. With the podcast, you can feel like a friend is riding with you or cooking a meal, while we laugh and learn more about the word.
6. How has being a woman of faith improved your relationships, specifically with your husband and children, as well as your overall life? Girl it is the reason I have a relationship with anybody ha ha. Like I stated in my first book I wanted to divorce my husband. It took all of the Holy Spirit to save our marriage as he matured us both. I had to learn to be a daily praying wife and mother. I had to learn that God loves my family more than me and with his guidance, I can be who they need.
7. What are the best & most challenging parts of being a SAHM?
The best part of being a SAHM is living my dream. I always wanted to be a stay-at-home mom. I wanted to be able to make my home a priority and not secondary to a job. I wanted them to create a place my children felt loved, seen, and safe. The most challenging part of being a SAHM is finding time for myself. I have created a schedule that helps me get a break during the day however I have been trying to find a day I just don't do anything. Always being home I can easily pay attention to the task that needs to be done. So my brain is always on overload. I am working on better communicating my needs to my husband. We also work together to give each other child-free days.
8. What is your favorite book? Who is your favorite author?
Currently, my favorite book is "8 great smarts" by Kathy Koch. Amazing book if you want to know the way your children might think and why. I've also always enjoyed books by Lisa Bevere.
9. What are your goals for 2024?
Are you working on another book or any special projects? (Be as vague or open as you want with this question) I hope to not be working on another book ha ha. Writing is a process! I'm hoping to have a few events for moms including bible study picnic and hopefully a trip.
10. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I would love to see myself running a successful mom group that helps moms and wives grow closer with God. I would love to see my books on shelves and offered at various Christian birthing centers. I said "I would love" and not "This is where I see myself" because I don't know where God would have me. Those are my desires but I have learned His way is better.
11. Please share any upcoming events you will be participating in or any special offerings.
There are no upcoming events at the time however I have started a Proverbs 31 small group based on my second book. The small group is for 8 weeks and will relaunch in spring of 2024. We talk about the book but also dive into the word. It is a place to let your hair down and grow with other moms. You can sign up for the waitlist on my website rheamarie.com.