AuthenticallyRe

01/01/2025

🎉 New Year, New Intentions! 🎉

The New Year brings fresh opportunities—and for military families, it also means adapting to change as a constant. In our latest article, “New Year, New Intentions: Setting Mindful Goals for the Year Ahead” by Tyrese Cook, we explore how to approach goal-setting with flexibility and mindfulness that align with the military lifestyle.

Discover practical tips for setting intentions that nurture mental well-being, resilience, and personal growth. From embracing self-reflection to creating adaptable SMART goals, this piece is a must-read for anyone seeking meaningful progress in 2025.

Let’s kick off this year with compassion, adaptability, and a focus on what truly matters. 💪✨

📰 Read the full article now in United on the RoK Magazine! https://www.unitedontherokmag.org/home/december-2024-featured-articles/new-year-new-intentions-setting-mindful-goals-for-the-year-ahead

01/01/2025

The Cook family is stepping into this new year with such excitement and anticipation for what God is about to do! ✨ 2025 is full of endless possibilities, and I truly believe this will be a year where we see God’s favor, abundance, and prosperity overflow in our lives. As we all reflect on 2024, let’s thank God for His grace, mercy, and the lessons He’s taught us. And as we look ahead, let’s trust that He has great plans in store for each of us—plans to prosper us, to bring us peace, and to lead us into new opportunities we’ve never even dreamed of! 💫This is the year where doors will open, miracles will unfold, and God’s hand will guide us every step of the way. Let’s walk boldly into 2025, knowing that with God by our side, there is nothing we cannot overcome, and no dream too big!Embrace His promises of abundance and take bold steps in faith. God is about to do some Awesome things this year, and I can’t wait to see what He has for each of us! 💕Here’s to a year of limitless opportunities, prosperity, and the powerful work of God in our lives! 🥰♥️✨

31/12/2024

South of Seoul has been such an incredible resource for my family this year, especially as we continue to explore and make the most of our time in Korea! Thank you for your dedication to creating content that connects and uplifts the community. Your hard work does not go unnoticed, and we appreciate everything you do to make navigating life here easier and more enriching.

Thank you also for the opportunity this year to volunteer alongside your efforts—it’s been a privilege to contribute to such meaningful work. Here’s to an amazing 2025 ahead! 🎉

South of Seoul 2024 Year-in-Review

30/12/2024

As we wrap up the year, I wanted to share some of the things I’ve been doing to start 2025 on the right foot. Getting a jumpstart on these habits before the new year makes them feel more natural and less overwhelming. By the time January 1st rolls around, you’re not scrambling to establish habits—they’ve already become a part of your rhythm, creating space for more intentional growth and ease.

Wellness & Self-Care:
A few days ago, I started a new 8-week fitness routine using the iPhone Fitness app, and it’s been a great way to stay motivated and consistent. Beginning now instead of waiting for the new year has given me the chance to ease into the routine without the pressure of January resolutions. It feels like I’m prioritizing myself as I build momentum for what’s to come.

At the same time, I’ve been leaning into other aspects of well-being. Whether it’s washing my and my daughter’s hair, taking time for pedicures, listening to my body when it needs to rest, or sticking to small but meaningful routines the last week of 2024, these moments are my way of creating space to feel refreshed and cared for.

These simple acts of care may seem small, but they’re foundational. They remind me that even in the busyness, it’s okay to pause, prioritize myself, and set a standard for the energy I want to carry into the year ahead.

Reflecting on the Year:
Every December, I take time to reflect on the year by revisiting my accomplishments month by month. I write them down—not just the big milestones, but also the smaller moments that shaped my journey. It’s a tradition I look forward to because it helps me see the full scope of my growth and appreciate the progress I’ve made, even in areas that might have felt stagnant at the time.

Life moves so quickly that we often don’t take the time to acknowledge how far we’ve come—it’s about honoring the effort, resilience, and lessons that carried me through.

Preparing Your Space:
At home, I’ve been focused on preparing our space for the new year—tidying up, and making sure everything is fresh and clean. There’s something deeply symbolic about starting the year in a space that feels organized and welcoming, almost like creating a blank canvas for the year ahead. We’ve also finalized our New Year’s menu, staying true to our family tradition of Black-Eyed Peas and greens—it’s a way of honoring our roots.

Setting Intentions:
I’ve been reflecting on the intentions I want to set for the year ahead. In my recent article for United on the Rok, I shared how important it is to embrace focus and clarity when setting goals. For me, this means leaning into consistency, finding balance, and staying firmly grounded in my faith.

One way I’m doing this is by starting a 49-week Bible reading plan that takes me through the entire Bible in chronological order. I’m excited to see how immersing myself in the Word not only deepens my relationship with God but also continues to shape my perspective and strengthen my foundation for everything else I hope to accomplish.

Starting Fresh:
Music and books have become such an essential part of my reset this year. I’ve found a few audiobooks that I’m excited to dive into, and I’ve even created a few Spotify playlists to keep me motivated. Focusing on healing and growth through something as simple as music and books has reminded me how powerful these small, quiet moments can be.

I hope this gives you a little inspiration as you set your own intentions!

What are you looking forward to starting, or what intentions have you already been working on as we move into 2025? I’d love to hear how you’re setting the stage for success in the year ahead.

29/12/2024

We’ve all encountered someone whose energy feels like a burden rather than a blessing. It’s easy to fall into negative habits like complaining or stirring conflict, but emotional maturity encourages us to show up with kindness, empathy, and understanding. We don’t have to have it all together, but it’s about working on ourselves and being mindful of how we affect others.

Self-sabotage often goes unnoticed until the consequences pile up. It can show up as procrastination, poor choices, or behaviors that reinforce negative beliefs. These patterns are often rooted in unresolved emotions or fears, and can be hard to break. But emotional maturity helps us recognize these behaviors and choose healthier ways to grow.

How do you work on your emotional maturity to avoid self-sabotage and show up in a positive way for others?

29/12/2024

As a therapist, I’ve seen countless individuals make progress by learning to move forward despite their insecurities. It’s about embracing the discomfort and choosing to act, even when fear, doubt, and lack of support or confidence are present. The key is not to wait for fear to disappear, but to act in spite of it. Fear doesn’t vanish when we want it to, but embracing it as a part of the process—rather than a barrier—allows you to push past limitations and unlock new possibilities for yourself. Don’t wait for perfect conditions; take action now and let growth follow.

How have you shown up for yourself through fear or insecurity?

29/12/2024

Have you ever heard phrases like “Just stay positive” or “It could be worse” when you were struggling? While these comments may come from a place of care, they can sometimes dismiss the validity of your feelings. This is toxic positivity—the pressure to maintain a constant “positive vibe,” even at the expense of your emotional truth.

Acknowledging your pain or frustration doesn’t make you “negative”—it makes you human. Choosing to feel and reflect allows you to grow, heal, and develop a more authentic outlook on life. Positivity isn’t about ignoring reality; it’s about finding hope while staying honest about where you are.

How have your experiences shaped your perspective, how do you balance staying hopeful while allowing yourself to feel deeply and authentically?

29/12/2024

In a world that celebrates doing it all, remember this: rest is not laziness—it’s an act of strength and self-preservation. Overextending yourself might feel productive in the moment, but it often leads to diminishing returns. Rest, however, is where real restoration happens.

When you rest, you’re not being unproductive—you’re investing in your ability to show up fully for yourself and others. Rest isn’t the opposite of progress. It’s the foundation of it.

How do you prioritize rest in your life?

26/12/2024

This is Twin Motherhood.

Even though it’s my second time around, I like to think I’ve mastered the art (well, most days, ha!).

Two babies needing love, one nestled in my arms, the other curled up on my lap. One hand rocking, the other gently patting in rhythm with their tiny breaths. It’s a beautiful dance of love, grace, and endless patience.

It’s chaos wrapped in calm, joy tangled with exhaustion. But through it all, my hands may be full, yet my heart overflows. These moments are fleeting, but they’re mine, and I wouldn’t trade them for anything in this world. 💕

To my fellow twin mamas—you’re doing amazing. Keep showing up, one snuggle, one rock, one heartbeat at a time. You’ve got this.

26/12/2024

🎙️ AFN Radio!

This afternoon, I had such an amazing time chatting with United on the Rok Editor-in-Chief Jetta Allen and Sergeant Wilkins! We talked about some of my advice for content creators, authors, and photographers, the exciting December articles I’ve written (plus some other fantastic features now available in stores!), and even gave a little sneak peek into what’s coming in January.

In my January articles, I’m opening up about why I chose to homeschool and how it aligns with my family’s unique needs and values. I’m also sharing a super-helpful guide with 10 essential questions to ask a childcare provider—because we all want to make sure our little ones are in the best hands.

If you missed today’s segment, don’t worry—I’ll keep you updated with what’s next. Thank you for being on this journey with me and for all of your support. It truly means the world!

25/12/2024

Cheyenne and Anastasia’s first Christmas was a success! ♥️🎄🎁

It’s 7pm, the house is clean, the presents are opened, Lego Friends Heartlake City Café is built, and the phone calls back home have been made. We read about the birth of Jesus and spent time in worship. Ate a delicious dinner, enjoyed cookies and hot cocoa while watching This Christmas, and now it’s time for Club Cook! 🎶

I’m so grateful we got to spend our first Christmas in South Korea together as a family of seven. 🇰🇷This season reminds me how much of a blessing it is to be surrounded by love, no matter where in the world we are. ♥️

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas from the Cook family to yours!

25/12/2024

Christmas dinner? Let me tell you—the bomb doesn’t even begin to describe it! 🎄✨ I made my second-ever ham, and it was pure holiday magic. The brown sugar glaze? Chef’s kiss. The sides? Festive perfection. Every bite felt like a cozy Christmas hug straight from the kitchen. 🥰

Here’s what graced our holiday table: Brown sugar smoked ham, lemon garlic butter mushrooms with fresh green beans, homemade mac and cheese, fluffy yeast rolls, and a baked blooming onion. 🤤

Did anyone else try something new or whip up a festive masterpiece? Share your delicious wins—or those funny “well, I tried” moments. 🍽️

25/12/2024

Merry Christmas from rhe Cook family to yours! Today, we’re reflecting on the beauty of love, togetherness, and the special moments that make this season magical. May your day be filled with joy, peace, and laughter with the ones you hold dear. Here’s to cherishing every blessing and making memories to last a lifetime.

Wishing you a day full of warmth, love, and happiness—Merry Christmas! 🎅🏽 🎁🎄

23/12/2024

We Had such a wonderful time at this event! 🎄 If you haven’t already, head over to the USO page and check out one of their latest posts. Ana, Naiya, and I are with Santa—scroll toward the final pics and you’ll spot us! 🎄🎅🏽✨

Let me know when you find us!

23/12/2024

Today, I’m unboxing three fun items from the Play collection at the PX that are guaranteed to bring big smiles this Christmas! Here’s what I unwrapped:1️⃣ Little Learner Super Table – This is the ultimate playtime hub with lights, sounds, and activities! 2️⃣ Ride and Learn Walker – For the movers and shakers in the house, this is part walker, part ride-on, and all-around fun. 3️⃣ Minnie Mouse Boutique Shopping Cart – A pink dream with all the cuteness! Minnie Mouse is here to upgrade playtime with grocery store vibes and tiny accessories. (Yes, I’m already prepared to “buy” fake groceries daily.)After the unboxing fun, I got down to business wrapping the last of the gifts sent by family back in the States. But of course, the PX ran out of tape because… Christmas! So, I had to get creative. Let’s just say this year’s wrapping was brought to you by mermaid Christmas stickers the girls had stashed in their activity books. 😂 Honestly, it added a little extra sparkle, so we’re calling it a win!The real highlight? Stick around to the end for the kids’ reactions to their new toys—they were absolutely priceless! Oh, and keep an eye out for the little Christmas elf herself, Anaiya, sneaking down the hallway to peek at me wrapping her gifts. If you see her, let me know in the comments! 👀

23/12/2024

Christmas came early for the girls again this year, and it’s always such a treat to see their faces light up! 🎁🎄🎅🏽 Our family sent some Christmas money with a special mission: to let the girls pick out something fun within a set budget. Not only was it a blast shopping and seeing their excitement, but it was also a great opportunity to sneak in a lesson on financial literacy—win-win! 🙌🏽

They each got to weigh their options, make choices, and stick to their budgets like little pros. Seeing them so thoughtful about their spending (and still having a ton of fun!) was a proud mama moment for sure. 💵✨

This year, just like last year, I decided not to go with a Christmas tree. With all the mini transitions we’ve had—navigating pregnancy, welcoming the new babies, moving to South Korea, and adjusting to so many recent changes—it just felt easier to focus on our family and other traditions outside of decorating. Honestly, it’s been such a blessing. Shifting my focus from decorating has allowed me to center this season solely on the birth of Christ, who is the true reason for the season. 💖

To top it off, I managed to finish wrapping the last of the gifts 🎁, and now we’re officially ready for Christmas in just a few days! The countdown is on, and we can’t wait to soak up all the magic, joy, and family moments this season brings.

How’s everyone else doing with their holiday prep? Let me know if you’re team “finished weeks ago” or team “wrapping on Christmas Eve.” Either way, Christmas is coming, and we’re here for it! 🎅🏽🎄

21/12/2024

Lately, a few people have shared experiences with me about discovering secrets unintentionally—situations where they found out things they weren’t supposed to know, and it caused some hurt. With the holiday season upon us, many of us will be spending time around loved ones, and it’s common for unresolved issues or past hurts to resurface. I thought this would be a great time to talk about how we can handle these moments with care.

We don’t have to let secrets define our future. By handling these situations with grace, we can create the space for healing and stronger bonds with the ones we love.

How have you handled situations where you discovered a secret unintentionally?

21/12/2024

Intimacy in marriage isn’t just about physical closeness, but emotional and spiritual connection that keeps your bond strong through life’s ups and downs. It’s those small moments of feeling seen and heard, the deep conversations, and the shared experiences that help you both grow closer.

How do you nurture intimacy in your marriage? Let’s talk about it!