Happy Tuesday, Friends! 

I've got a big announcement to share with you today! Plus, keep reading for a chance to win $100 to one of your favorite stores...

Who Do You Want to Be When You Grow Up?

I’ve been sitting on a secret I can’t wait to share with you! Besides my immediate family, you’re some of the first to hear that I’m launching a kid's book this September, with 100% of my royalties going to the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, in perpetuity.

I wholeheartedly believe that children are our future and I’ve been an ardent supporter of the BGCA for almost 8 years, so much so, that I became a trustee in 2021. I bet there’s a BGCA club in your area, as there are over 4300 clubs nationwide!

Sure, the clubs have produced some famous alums, like Denzel Washington and J-Lo. Buuuut, they help almost 5 million kids every single year. And, the strong majority of club kids say that the clubs SAVED THEIR LIFE. 

Here’s the first peek of the book, which is titled Who Do You Want to Be When You Grow Up? 

In a world that places so much emphasis on what we do — our accomplishments and career successes — I wanted to push back at that notion, and instead encourage kids to focus on character and the type of person they want to be when they grow up. There’s a parent's note in the back of the book and a guide to help us encourage them in what matters most: their character. Again, children are our future!

I’m so grateful that I get to share this news with you first…I truly love connecting with you through this newsletter. And, if you haven’t done so already, please take this super quick survey, to let me know what I can do better! Hundreds of you have already done so and I’m reading ALL OF YOUR FEEDBACK. For instance, over 70% of you want more helpful tips from this newsletter and a lot of you miss my podcast. (Ummmm…I may have an update on that, soon). Remember, I’ll be picking one winner for a $100 gift card to Walmart, too. The survey closes one week from today on May 30th!

Whatever you’re in the thick of right now…maybe it’s the end of school, graduations, birthday parties or playoff games…maybe you’re in the thick of personal and professional change…know that you aren’t alone.

Not my finest moment...

Every newsletter, I'll be sharing funny stories that humanize us and keep it real. Aka, not my finest moment. #NotMyFinestMomentThis video will either make you laugh. 😂 Or cry. 😭 Have a submission for #NotMyFinestMoment? DM me. 

FARIS FAVORITES

Recipe for Your Summer Sweet Tooth

You may have seen this ice cream recipe/hack on Instagram — if you haven't tried it yet, I'm here to tell you it is genius! All you need is vanilla yogurt, peanut butter, melted chocolate and peanuts. 10 minutes in the freezer later... and you have a healthier (just as yummy) summer snack that tastes like a Snickers ice cream bar! 

You're Going to Make it

Maybe you’re going through something tough, like a divorce, loss or career change. My friend Lysa TerKeurst has written a new devotional titled You’re Going To Make It. And, her team has generously offered to gift it to 15 of you! All you have to do is send me a DM via Instagram and include your name and *mailing* address. The first to DM me will win!

My Challenge For You...

I want to encourage you to try something new this next week…there's all types of research that says trying new things bolsters your endorphins! Anything that makes you laugh and have a good time — maybe eating chocolate or meditating? I told you recently that I tried out the Aquatic Challenge at my local YMCA — I initially did it as somewhat of a joke, but I am now a DEVOTEE! And, I keep recruiting new friends to join me! This is my dear friend Daja…and I’m dragging John (my hubby) to a class this Wednesday! Release those endorphins, my friends! And, reach out to tell me what you did.

Here's what you missed this week in The CARRY™ ALL, the weekly newsletter BY working moms, for working moms (and the Media company birthed out of my own Called Out story!)1. 📢 5 Conversation Cures for Career Advancement2. What to do with those old prom dresses 👗3. A heartfelt letter 🤍 to the NICU mama