Year: 2025

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Happy New Year!

This year has flown by. We have lots to look forward to in the upcoming year as well as lots to take advantage of. Housing, healthy food, art, stories, faith, and of course family.

We are also getting a name change in the New  Year along with a bunch of other goodies. I appreciate all of you who read and who have subscribed. Feel free to email me at info@chiaraatoyebimedia.com with any of your thoughts, comments, well-wishes and more. I would love to connect with you.

Wishing you a blessed New Year and thanks so much for being here. Please be sure to share our site with others if you will.

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A New Year’s Omen: Was She Smiling?

By La Luz

Photo of Our Lady of Czestochowa, Courtesy of Chiara Luz Atoyebi, Washington. DC 2025.

I have seen a few signs and wonders at The Basilica in DC, and it always happens with exactly one witness. This past Sunday when we were leaving mass I looked up and saw what appeared to be Our Lady smiling. If you are familiar with this image and iconography it is more somber. But on this day I tapped my son and said, “is she smiling?” he said, “yeah that’s weird.”

I immediately snapped a picture and here it is.

For me it proves the spiritual connection of art in the way that Kandinsky wrote about. Additionallyalso believe that this is a smile of support and pride.

Let me know if you see the smile and what you think. I think it is a good omen for the new year.

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I Enjoy Giving

When are you most happy?

When I think back to my fondest memories they all involve moments where I had little resources, yet somehow managed to give gifts, prizes, books, meals, etc., to others. It always makes me think about one of my greatest desires and carry overs from childhood–teaching people how to fish. Showing by example that they have what they need when they look around. Teaching the blessing of small things and watching it grow to big things, is one of life’s joys for me.

In 2019  I said I wanted to be a philanthropist. I was inspired by all the art I was making and I felt I could do anything. I still believe that. Some people may say, you can’t be a philanthropist and be a regular person. But I believe those are the best ones. They show others that you don’t need big infrastructure for a big heart, or even big giving. Things can always grow later on. But there is so much need in the world. It’s nice to be able to stay fluid and watch others smile.

I also like to simply live my life and share parts of it. I know that when people encounter a person just living differently sometimes it’s the greatest inspiration.

It’s the gift of small things. Kind of like the Christmas cookies we baked with my daughter on Christmas. They already came with a Santa Face printed on them. Simple and delicious. Did I make the dough from scratch and carefully do everything? No.  Could I? Absolutely. I can do quite a few things but I have my own season I am stepping into. I am loosening my Martha Stewart style vice grip on domesticity and spreading out creatively.

The good news is that she made cookies with the neighbor and with her grandmother. One for Noche Buena and the other for Christmas. So there was love all around.

Maybe that’s another thing to consider giving. Maybe sharing those closest to you. Maybe it’s sharing time and even sharing space.

When I am giving I also get a bit tired, and I am learning that little dab is great. I don’t need to give the entire kit and caboodle. For me, the most important thing is building a life. It doesn’t take as much as you might think depending on your goals.

But back to sharing and giving:

What do you find the hardest to share? Time Space? Money? I would love to know.

Happy Holidays. May peace be upon you.

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Merry Christmas To All

Wishing you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas.

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My Awesome Step Dad

Who are the biggest influences in your life?

Men give interesting advice. I got alot from my uncles, brothers and males in my life. I have actually had a lot of father figures in my life and they’ve all been great. But it took me a very long time to appreciate my step dad’s advice.

After I failed my driving test two times in high school he said, “you need to spruce it up a bit before you go in the next time.” That was code for “use yor assets.” Needless to say, that advice worked. It actually always works. So I will always remind myself sometimes that ai have to “spruce it up.”

This is true but I hope you find it endearing. I did because my dad always gives cool advice.

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The Art of Moving On

What skills or lessons have you learned recently?

I use to have this skill mastered and it allowed me to live a robust life full of adventures and interesting people.

I love living a fluid life, and I hope that I pass on that free spirit to my children. It’s a big world out there, and we are too often confined to the spaces in our head or even our general locations. But, there is so much more.

I also apply that same mindset to people and situations.  Some people and situations can gain second chances. Some relationships can be resurrected or opportunities revisted. Others  were simply moments in time, life lessons and our greatest teachers and cannot go further than the time they were allotted. 

The skill of discernment, and knowing when to move on in love, is necessary.  When we do this with a loving spirit, we allow doors to shut, in order for God to grow and use us for the next mission.

The gift of moving on and opening up, is a gift I wish more people had. It’s the key to an abundant life. It’s the key to breaking chains in our lives. Life is a gift, lean into it.

Merry Christmas. Shalom. Felicidades. Peace Be Upon You.

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An Executive Decision: A Little Extra Family Time For The Holidays


The holiday season just got cozier! Here are the deets:

Thanks to a presidential announcement that  many federal executive departments and agencies will be closed on Wednesday, December 24, 2025 (Christmas Eve) and Friday, December 26, 2025, in addition to Christmas Day itself.

Gosh, any day off the road, off the clock and in my pajamas with my snacks and movies is a win-win situation.


Of course, not everyone gets the full break. Essential workers and certain agencies may still be open depending on their mission. But overall, it’s a cheerful reminder that even the federal government enjoys a good holiday pause now and then.


Whether this affects you directly or you just love a reason to celebrate, consider this your official permission slip to slow down and soak up the season.

Tonight, I will be initiating my first Noche Buena dinner to the driest crowd around–my kids. They just want to skip Mass and dinner and go straight to the gift opening.

All of my presents are wrapped and under the tree (except a few from Santa!) so it’s just decisions about what to watch while the world takes a breather.

Here are some beloved Christmas classics from a variety of traditions to keep movie night merry and bright:


It’s a Wonderful Life – A heartfelt reminder of kindness and community.


Home Alone – Classic chaos, laughs, and holiday nostalgia.


Elf – Pure joy, sugar, and Buddy the Elf energy.


African American Holiday Classics
The Preacher’s Wife – Warm, romantic, and full of soul.


This Christmas – Family, drama, love, and holiday music. (Love this one!)


Almost Christmas – Big family vibes with big laughs.

Latino Holiday Favorites


Nothing Like the Holidays – A Puerto Rican-American family navigating love and tradition.


Merry Kiss Cam – Cozy, festive, and lighthearted.


Navidad en Vivo – Music-filled and joyful for the season. (A good one)

Lastly, you can’t have Christmas Eve without cookies. Here is a quick and easy recipe for Snickerdoodles:

Easy Holiday Cookie Recipe: Cozy Snickerdoodles


1 cup butter (softened)
1½ cups sugar
2 eggs
2¾ cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp cream of tartar
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
2 tbsp sugar + 2 tsp cinnamon (for rolling)
How to Make Them
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
Beat in eggs.
Mix flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt separately.
Combine wet and dry ingredients.
Roll dough into balls.
Roll each ball in cinnamon sugar.
Bake 8–10 minutes until just golden.
Cool, grab milk, and enjoy!
Here’s to slower days, fuller cookie plates, and movie marathons that last well past bedtime.


Happy Holidays from all of us at CAM.

Felicidades!

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Now Is The Time

By Chiara Luz

If you have been on the fence. If you were unsure about how to make the change or if you should make that change–now is the time.

I have a knack for seeing what is coming down the road and it is a mixed bag that will require a strong mental fortitude. It will be a season of faith for many people going forward.

We are still rebuilding and we all have a role to play in this moment. The biggest one is to be sober minded, community oriented, and family focused.

In the midst of challenges, trials, and uncertainty people of great faith will witness unbelievable things.

We are gearing up our stories here at CAM and working on preserving and educating people on some rich cultural heritage.

You and your family may not make it around the world but that does not mean you can’t be global citizens.

Peace be with you.

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St. Martin de Porres

By Chiara Luz

St. Martin de Porres image in the Public Domain

My daughter woke up from a dream saying that she had been being bullied by an old man. He thought she didn’t have a family and wanted her to beat box and fight him. He captured her, but she told him that she didn’t want to beat box against him he was an adult. Then she told him she had a family and he let her and her friend go.

In order to understand why this dream is so interesting is to understand a small girl with a big name—Monarch. I always think of her as a gentle hearted champion. When I think of a Monarch transformation comes to mind. I also think about the inheritance that we labor daily to hold on it. The vision of the bully against the child the world thinks is alone is actually a testament to the hidden giant that is planted within us. We have the power to beat our giants. My daughter makes me think of St. Martin de Porres. Like all good things that come from God–they come with a lasting legacy, not a temporal one.

Who is St. Martin De Porres?

St. Martin de Porres lived a life of humble service that continues to inspire Christians today. Born in Lima, Peru, on December 9, 1579, Martin faced hardship from the very beginning. The son of a Spanish nobleman and a freed  woman of African and Indigenous descent, he grew up in poverty and experienced discrimination because of his mixed-race heritage. Yet his heart was always turned toward compassion, and that caused him to receive a divine blessing and calling over his life.

He reminds me of the gentle hearted and very wise Pope Leo.

At just 15 years old, he began volunteering with the Dominican friars, taking on the simplest tasks like sweeping floors, washing dishes, and tending the sick. It was while he was working in the infirmary that miracles of instant healing and cures began to manifest.

Eventually, St. Martin had the opportunity to rise in the ranks of the church. However, he chose to continue doing what he was doing. He was also known to give alot of money to the causes of the needy. Much more than he should have based on his position.

St. Martin’s life was marked by extraordinary compassion for the marginalized, the hungry and the suffering. While he was assigned to care for the sick he showed unwavering patience and kindness to all, regardless of race or status. He founded an orphanage, aided the poor. His heart was so open that he even cared for animals, welcoming stray cats and dogs and had a remarkable connection and repoire with many animals. He lived a life of healing, peace, community, and generosity. His life kind of makes you contemplate what a life well lived looks like.

Canonized in 1962 by Pope John XXIII, St. Martin de Porres is the patron saint of people of mixed race, barbers, innkeepers, public health workers, and all who work toward racial harmony and social justice.

In praying with St. Martin, we are reminded that holiness is found in small acts of love offered without pride or expectation.

May his example stir our hearts to serve the least among us, to cross boundaries of prejudice, and to see Christ in every brother and sister we encounter.

“Whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” –Matthew 23:12

Devotional Prayer for St. Martin de Porres


St. Martin de Porres, humble servant of God,
teach us to love without condition and to serve without seeking reward.


Help us to see Christ in the poor, the suffering, and the forgotten.
Intercede for us, that we may walk in humility, trust in God’s providence,
and reflect Christ’s mercy in all we do. Amen.

My personal question is, what does St. Martin’s life show us? What is a life well lived? Why did he choose to stay where he was when he could have had so much more? Eventually, because the light on his life, he broke all the barriers–but he chose to remain set apart. We don’t know of those Dominican Friars he served with. But, we do know of him and that is no accident.

Remember you are the head, not the tail.

St. Martin Pray for us.

“Dios Es Amor.”

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You Are Your Family’s New Beginning

Life can be serious. Especially when you have little eyes looking up to you.

While it’s fun, joyful, and a blessing, it’s also a serious act of stewardship. Not long ago, I had more time to pour myself into causes I cared about, but when you become the cause and have people depending on you, that takes priority. I once wrote in another article about how doing my own taxes changed my perspective. It made me think a lot about where my money goes, how I spend it, how I invest it, and how it’s ultimately used. As a society, we complain about money often, yet rarely talk about engaging with the system, learning the processes, and taking small, actionable steps toward affordability.

I remember spending a year unable to comfortably eat out. I lived on 7-11 taquitos, dressed up frozen meals over rice like they were gourmet, and mostly ate at home. My rule was that it had to be quality, so I went to the store every day. It was a grind I’ll never forget. Back then, the government wasn’t on my mind. The truth is, I don’t like waiting—waiting to be published, to build, to eat, to be good enough. I like to be prepared and ready, with anything extra being icing on the cake. Life is happening now, and the definition of responsibility is to do a little at a time. It adds up.

Next year, Americans are expected to get an extra $1,000 in their bank accounts. It won’t change everything, but in certain phases of life, it can make a difference. If you don’t need it, invest it.

One thing I’ve noticed, and experienced myself, is the contradiction of complaining about money while feeling guilty discussing it. How can I need it yet resent it? How can I call it in while pushing it away? Anything that genuinely helps make life easier is worth appreciating. As long as your values remain intact, be grateful—because chances are, you’ve earned it.

Here are five financial books for women:

1. Debt Proof Living by Mary Hunt

  • Debt-Proof Living is a concept popularized by Mary Hunt in her book and community platform. It’s a practical approach to getting out of debt and staying out of debt for life.
  • The philosophy emphasizes living within your means, building financial resilience, and creating habits that prevent future debt

2. Get Good with Money by Tiffany Aliche

  • A step-by-step guide to achieving financial security through budgeting, saving, and investing.
  • Includes actionable checklists and worksheets to help you build wealth. [

3. You Are a Badass at Making Money by Jen Sincero

  • Combines mindset coaching with practical financial advice.
  • Great for women who want to overcome limiting beliefs and build confidence around money.

4. Clever Girl Finance by Bola Sokunbi

  • Offers relatable strategies for paying off debt, saving, and investing.
  • Written specifically for women seeking financial independence and confidence.

5. Your Money or Your Life by Vicki Robin & Joe Dominguez

  • A classic that teaches how to transform your relationship with money and achieve financial freedom.
  • Focuses on aligning spending with personal values and long-term goals.

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Taste The Flavor of Good Chop 🥩

My First Box Delivery (Medium)

My delivery from Good Chop arrived the other day and it did not disappoint. First of all the delivery was seamless. And in this porch pirate climate, that is something that stands out.

My items arrived sealed tight and ice cold. Last night we made the burgers. I wanted to go outside and grill them, but it was freezing. It was a skillet adventure and it didn’t disappoint.

Just so you know, this is organic meat from American farms. Why does this matter? You would be surprised how much of our meat is imported. In 2022, the largest import of monthly beef came from  Brazil.  I am a believer in building up where I live,  since I have to live here. Besides, this was one of the most delicious pieces of ground beef I have had in awhile. I think that buying local is one of the best ways to build up your area. That’s actually how it gets done–with your actual dollars. I learned this from sitting on a few of my city’s committee’s.

Video of the box items for reference

I actually live around quite a few farms and I plan to bring my support even more local. I want to try Kosher butchers and vegetable CSA’s. I have known about this for years but the frugal person in me would never do it. Then I thought about how much I ran to Whole Foods and decided to run some numbers. The math more than worked out. I was also inspired to do this because I was part of a group that worked with Creation Justice Ministries. This ministry sees the beauty of the environment and preserving God’s creation and bringing about justice through small acts. 

Last summer, there was a talk I went to one time about “communion” and it framed the act of farm to table as an act of communion and community. It was such a beautiful concept that I felt like this is absolutely the way it should be. Why should we watch farmers on television talk about their needs when we can help them and ourselves. I personally believe that better quality leads to less waste.

QUALITY OVER EVERYTHING

A neighbor of mine grows tomatoes and served them to us at a party. Those tomatoes tasted like candy. I couldn’t stop eating them. These are not tomatoes I would waste. The watery tomatoes, maybe, not these.

Lastly, Good Chop added a few special gifts. I love gifts!

I am a mom of a son who is very into fashion. He is now into the quarter zip craze. Last week, it was Nike Tech, so I hope quarter zips are still relevant by Christmas. Good Chop just sent over a nice discount code from Collars & Co. This is a company that appeared on Shark Tank, and I am excited to see what it’s all about.

So tell me what you think? Are you ready to order?  Don’t forget to visit our shop for your faith-inspired clothing as well! These hoodies are so nice and thick. Perfect for cold weather  and we have more things coming.

It’s about transformation. With God all things are possible.

Happy Holidays!

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The Benefits of Buying American Meat

After years of researching how to support local farmers and buy American meat, I finally purchased my first CSA and can’t wait to open it. While it’s not local to my state, I plan to get all my vegetables from nearby farmers, even if it means buying them off a truck. I believe in living as intentionally as possible and putting my money where my mouth is. My first box from Good Chop was reasonably priced, and once I make dinner, I’ll share my post. The goal is to pay a bit more, eat everything, cut down on waste, and trim the waistline. I have posted on this before. We shouldn’t have both waste and scarcity at the same time.

Why Buying American Meat Matters

When it comes to choosing meat, where it comes from makes a big difference. Opting for American-raised meat isn’t just about taste, it’s about quality, safety, and supporting local communities.

Quality You Can Trust

American meat is regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which enforces strict inspection and grading standards. Labels like Prime, Choice, and Select help you understand the quality and tenderness of your purchase. These safeguards ensure transparency and reduce risks often associated with imported meat.

Supporting Local Farmers

Every time you buy American meat, you’re investing in rural economies and family farms. Your purchase helps preserve farmland, sustain jobs, and strengthen local communities. It also reduces dependence on foreign supply chains, which can be vulnerable during global disruptions.

Better for the Environment

Buying domestic meat means shorter transportation routes, which lowers carbon emissions compared to imported products. Many U.S. ranchers also embrace sustainable practices like rotational grazing and humane animal care, making your choice better for the planet.

Taste and Traceability

American beef, especially Angus, is renowned for its marbling and flavor. When you buy local, you gain full traceability, from pasture to plate, and the confidence that comes with knowing where your food comes from.

Choosing American meat is more than a purchase it’s a commitment to quality, sustainability, and community. It delivers better taste, safer food, and a stronger local economy, all while reducing your environmental footprint.

Here are some other thigs to consider.

—Top Meat Stocks to Watch.

—Compare national Meat Shares.

—Up to Date Farm Policy Affecting Americans.

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Our News Feed: Exploring UNESCO’s Impact on Cultural Heritage

Image by Khalifah ALHazaa from Pixabay

Thanks for sticking with us! We’ve added the UNESCO Heritage RSS feed to the bottom of “Our Current Media,” and we hope you’ll check it out as we continue our storytelling and crafting mission. What’s so incredible about UNESCO is how it ties into our values—faith, family, and folklore are all rooted in heritage. Growing up in different parts of the world shaped how I see life, raise my kids, and build my legacy. We’re the keepers of our traditions, and I hope you’ll subscribe to our upcoming heritage newsletter and feel inspired to create and learn, no matter where you are. And yes, we’ll definitely be featuring heritage from Maryland and across the U.S.

What Is UNESCO and Why Does It Matter?

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was established in 1945 with a bold vision: to build peace through education, science, culture, and communication. Today, UNESCO works with 194 member states to protect cultural and natural heritage, advance inclusive education, and promote freedom of expression. Its flagship World Heritage program safeguards sites of outstanding universal value—from ancient monuments to biodiversity-rich landscapes—ensuring they endure for future generations.

UNESCO’s mission goes beyond preservation. It fosters global dialogue, sets ethical standards for emerging technologies, and advocates for cultural diversity as a cornerstone of sustainable development. In a world facing climate change, conflict, and rapid digital transformation, UNESCO reminds us that peace is rooted not only in treaties but in shared knowledge and cultural solidarity.

Image by Marisa04 from Pixabay

The Role of Heritage in Modern Society

Heritage is more than monuments or artifacts—it is the living memory of communities, expressed through crafts, traditions, and stories. Preserving heritage means protecting identity, fostering creativity, and inspiring innovation. In an era of globalization, heritage offers a sense of belonging and continuity, anchoring us in values that transcend borders.

Chiara Atoyebi Media: Crafting Stories That Matter

At Chiara Atoyebi Media, we believe heritage is not a relic of the past but a vibrant force shaping the future. Our commitment is to deliver heritage news, artisanal crafts, and legacy narratives that celebrate cultural richness while embracing modern storytelling techniques.

Through curated features, interviews with artisans, and explorations of cultural trends, we aim to:

  • Revive ancestral wisdom by spotlighting traditional crafts and practices.
  • Bridge tradition and technology through digital storytelling and immersive media.
  • Amplify underrepresented voices to ensure diverse cultural narratives reach global audiences.
  • Foster intergenerational dialogue so heritage becomes a shared experience, not a forgotten chapter.

Why This Matters for Our Readers

Our readers seek more than information—they crave connection. By aligning with UNESCO’s vision, Chiara Atoyebi Media offers content that inspires pride, curiosity, and responsibility. Every article, photo essay, and craft feature is designed to spark conversations about sustainability, identity, and creativity.

Looking Ahead

As we expand our coverage, expect deeper dives into UNESCO initiatives, profiles of heritage custodians, and stories that explore how culture adapts in a digital age. Together, we can transform heritage from a static concept into a dynamic movement—one that empowers communities and enriches global understanding.

Don’t forget to click on our current media and scroll down. You will find the UNESCO Heritage Feed. Enjoy.

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Why Dubai Is My Dream Travel City

Daily writing prompt
What cities do you want to visit?
View all responses

I want to visit Dubai. To me, it’s the epitome of stunning architecture, a cultural melting pot, sleek shops, cosmopolitan style, and incredible food. I love watching interior design vlogs showcasing homes there, filled with some of the most impressive art I’ve ever seen—always eclectic yet elegant. I feel the same admiration for African design, especially the bold elements I’ve come across from South Africa and Ghana.

Here is another favorite.