One thing my mom taught me & i've never forgot is no-one can make you happy. Happiness is found first within yourself. So I'm glad you've made that realization because toxic-ness can really come from relying on others to make you feel whole when its yourself who needs to make you feel whole. Your an inspiration and I've been watching since you were in college. Love how you've grown and keep doing you.
Also ... thank you so much for shining the light on mental health. It’s so important in black people and black communities. And we need more people to encourage therapy and self love & family bonds.
I feel like I have a short attention span and can never really sit through long videos, but Raven Elyse is a whole different story! I have no problem sitting through her chit chat videos and after watching this I feel like she’s my friend and I love it. Raven, your a huge inspiration and I love you and Ziya so much!!
Came across a random video of yours and have been binge watching ever since trying to catch up. THIS answered so many random questions that I had and it's refreshing for a UA-camr to be so upfront and honest. Loving the realness of your channel.
I think everyone can learn from you. Your dedication to Ziya and your career is astounding. And you don't hide the rough times from the camera. Which is why I tell everyone and anyone about your channel!
No one will ever understand the struggles of a single mom but a single mom..period. What we really do daily is inconceivable to some. Don’t listen to anyone else. You’re clearly killing it at motherhood, Ziya is so smart and happy. Keep your head up and stay true to you. Thank you for sharing and always being so real and relatable 💗
The pregnancy part hit home with being pregnant with unplanned pregnancy... Especially with a person that is not long term.. I had my daughter at 24 and I'm a single mother also... My daughter father was abusive. But ziya is a blessing girl and she gonna have your back no matter what
Wow- what a story. Thank you for sharing. You are a strong young woman, Raven. I am also prone to panic attacks ... in fact, I had my first one, on my wedding day!! Too much for words ... but I literally thought I was going to die. Could not breathe, hyperventilating, could not be still, it was awful. I still suffer panic attacks - the last one I had was a month after my mom was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer - I could not handle that news. What I find that amazingly works and wanted to share- essential oil of lavender. It works like a drug. It has literally stopped my panic attacks mid-stream. Just thought I would pass that info along .... I now live on essential oils ... lavender, bergamot, clary sage - these all keep me calm and feeling in a good mood. :-)
I haven’t watched his video yet, so I am not sure what it’s about. But I’d like to tell you I LOVE your channel and your videos. I am pregnant with my first child, I’m 22, I am still in school until May when I graduate. I’m still with the father so that’s good. But watching you daily with Ziya is so inspiring. Like you’re young, talented, beautiful and an amazing mother and I really hope to be the same. I just went back recently and watched old videos and it’s so amazing to see Ziya grow and grow. I started a channel to document my pregnancy and my baby boys growth and some memories for me and my boyfriend to have. As well as makeup and wigs and things I love. I had no idea what I was doing post grad. Now I know I’m taking time off to raise my boy. Basically, to not be a Chatty Cathy, you are helping me. A lot. Just watching you makes me so happy. I have a group with other moms on Insta and we all watch you. Like I don’t know how often you’re told that you have an impact on someone. But you have an impact on me. I’m just a simple girl, and I swear we have so much in common. Not a bunch of friends, I’ve got that Summer class too, all that. Watching you makes me feel like it will all work out. Which I’m sure it will. I just want to say thank you. For years, before Ziya, before you graduated, I’ve been watching. And you’ve been inspiring me. So thank you!
Believe it or not but God has his hands on your life. You’ve been transparent before but not in this way, you were led to make this video for a reason! This is just me speaking life over you, but you are going to reach A LOT of young single moms. Not just on UA-cam but on a lot of other platforms. Don’t shy away from transparency and sharing your journey. People appreciate it even though sometimes they are scared to speak up and say that relate. You are breaking out of your shell and it’s such a beautiful thing to see. Love you Raven ❤️
Raven you have a way about you that draws people in and make them want to listen to u which is truly a gift...U are a smart, strong and talented mom of a 2 year who just happens to be beautiful thank you for sharing alittle bit of your life with us... we are all rooting for u
I already knew all of this... and i knew I knew all of it when I clicked on the video lol but even though I already knew your story I just enjoy your content and there’s nothing wrong with a little refresher. If it means anything to you, you’re like my good mythical morning. I get excited when you post and I rewatch the same video over and over again. Like when it’s time to for me to eat dinner, I take my food, plop down on my bed and find a good video of yours that I haven’t seen in a while. I’m so glad you decided to do UA-cam full because I don’t know what else I’d do with my day if you hadn’t. 😂
I love your mom vlogs even though im like 15 😂😂but Ziya is so gorgeous and so are you. I applaud you for doing everything you do at a young age....single parenting and doing youtube has to be super duper difficult. You are literally my biggest inspiration.❤❤Gonna get some ice cream and watch this. I love you and your channel 👑❤
I’ve watched your past vlogs, so I knew your story. But to hear you sum it all up in one video was...whew. 💜 You’re a BEAUTIFUL, resilient woman who deserves all the happiness in the world. I hope you know that. I really enjoyed watching this.
Your story will help someone else, that’s what makes this video so amazing! People rarely speak about mental health. People are also rarely genuine. You’re awesome! I’ve been watching you since you were in that college apartment! Love your channel.
Perfect example of the pain and suffering you have to go through to get to where you want to be. I know you’ll continue to do bigger and better things for yourself and Ziya💕 I’ve watched your videos for years and I hope you have been enjoying the process of your success like I have. Know you’ll get where you want to be and just be patient and enjoy the process. Try not to stress yourself out and make sure to give yourself credit, look where you are!You got yourself here 👏 You’ve always made me want a UA-cam channel and I’ve decided to make one this year so I’m fa sho mentioning you in my first video lol I’m wishing you peace love happiness health and wealth foreverr keep doing ya thing Queen👑
I am so glad you're speaking on your experience with the mental health system. I had a similar experience. I also went there voluntary and was locked up. Absolutely the lowest point in my life! The staff told my mom the doctor would keep me until my insurance ran out. Thank God my mom is a nurse and knew she could break me out after the 48 hour mandatory hold. ..I still struggle with depression but family support is key. ❤
Raven...let me tell you this! I am so extremely proud of you. I have been watching you forever. Although our personal stories are different. I am happy to see where you are today. I’ve been following you since your college days and you have grown so much. So as a fellow mom with a daughter who is almost two years old and a UA-camr, if you ever want to give a friendship a try, I would totally be down for it. And I’m definitely not saying that to collab or anything because that’s not what I’m looking for. I just love how you pushed past all obstacles thrown your way. You are stronger than you know. And I would just love to have a dope friend like that. So don’t be afraid to hit my inbox on IG if you are interested in my offer. No hard feelings if you don’t. ☺️
Dang Raven, you are a strong, amazing, brilliant young woman! I am definitely one of those people who started watching your channel when you started doing the mom vlogs, and The traveling sisterhood vlogs, and I can say that I have seen such a change in you! I didn’t even know half of these things so it was really cool to learn so much about you from this video and I appreciate you filming it. We are the same exact age, I turn 25 in about a week. So even though I don’t have any children, I still feel like I can relate to you, we both graduated at the same time and struggled in school & had toxic relationships. And overall I just love to see your growth and the direction your channel is taking. So thank you I really appreciate this video!
I've been subbed since before you graduated college and I have loved watching you become the woman you are now ❤ Successful entrepreneur and a wonderful mom. You make Shambles look good 😊
I have been watching you since your college days. I admire how much you have grown as a person. You literally are so inspiring. You can handle any situation with grace and independence. Love you Raven. Keep making us proud. Ziya has someone great to look up to.
I love your channel! I found you this year only, and i spent nights to watch it all from the beginning! And im 22, got pregnant in toxic relationship, decided that i need to end it too and that i need to take full responsibility of what is coming!!! Watching your videos just gives me hope and love back to myself and whats about to come!!! Thank you and i hope that life for you just get better and better!!!!! All the best!!!!
I loved this video! The fact that you can come on to UA-cam and share about all the tough stuff you have been through is so empowering. I look at you now, and it is hard to believe that you were ever in a very dark spot in you life because of how strong and confident you are. Thanks for being vulnerable and showing us that life goes on!!
You’re an amazing mother and always come through with the realness! Life isn’t always perfect and being a mother isn’t always easy. I’ve been subscribed from the beginning and have always loved your videos. I love how you keep your videos raw and real unlike some other UA-camrs who make it seem like life is easy. Keep up the good work and love seeing your channel grow 💗
"It's hard to explain without actually explaining it" ...Ray! Jus explain it your truth honestly will help other young women who are going to through the exact same thing.....it's not easy being a single mom & your story is special to ALOT of us cause we can all relate! 😰😰😰💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽 I watched you when I was pregnant. Pretty much the exact same situation & the depression IS REALLLLLLL. I love the transparency in this video btw! Thank you!
I can definitely relate to your college story Raven! I was supposed to graduate December 2017, but I failed a class and had to retake it. I was devastated but I pulled through, and I will be graduating in a couple of weeks!
RAVEN! Idk if you know how inspiring you are. Despite your struggles you still keep pushing and you don’t make excuses for yourself and that’s a place I wish to be. You’re beautiful and you’re a wonderful mom and you’re very successful and I know you’ll go even further and just watching you makes me want to be a better me 💕
Thank you for having this UA-cam channel and being so open with your subscribers.! I love the fact that you’re so humble and true to yourself. I feel so happy watching you and it makes me happy because we have a lot of stuff in common. I pray for you that your UA-cam channel will continue to grow and I will always support you, you’re a great and genuine person.
I’ve watched all your stuff. Yet still I sat and watched this because now I’m a parent and I relate so much. Like you said PARENTING is hard in general. I relate to that so much because although my partner and I parent together. We are still individuals and have different parenting techniques & also everyday is new for us we are learning as parents, we ain’t got all the answers but you my friend are a SUPERMOM!
Love the long video! I’ve been having a stressful day, well stressful week and just being able to sit and just listen to you talk for 40 minutes feels like I’m just sitting talking to a best friend 🤗
i’ve been watching you since before you were pregnant and i have fallen more in love with how your channel is growing and growth in your videos, uploads etc i’m not a mom but love your content and you. my favorite youtuber so chill and down to earth and your channel caters to so many different people makeup, lifestyle/volgs, acne prone, hair you are a one stop shop. can’t wait to see your channel grow more! 🌸
I love your personality I love the way you overcome certain things that could derail someone so young. love how you're so blunt and to the point. you're a great mom and I will alway support you.
Your so inspiring and it was really nice to hear this from you. The struggle of co-parenting is hard, but your a great mother and Ziyah is so lucky to have you as a mom.
Oh wow, I remember when you made the video in your parents’ backyard while holding Ziya, and you were giving a recap of your panic attack, but for whatever reason, I was under the impression that you had had that “breakdown” AFTER you had already had Ziya. To now here that you were actually pregnant during that time...all I can say is wow. I’m genuinely so glad that you received the love and support from your family that you needed, and that you were able to overcome that traumatic time.
You make such a huge impact in my life! thank you so so much for making me smile after watching ur videos. Im 12 years old turning 14 in august and i struggle with separation anxiety and I'm always super insecure about my weight because the medicine i am on makes me really hungry when i just ate. I am also going through stuff with my bff hopefully we can make up though! Thank you so much for making me feel that it will get better. Your story will help so many people including me! Love you and Ziya so much!
Maybe it’s the fact that we’re birthday twins, but I’ve always felt as though I could really relate to you. There’s very few creators that I watch all where I enjoy all of their content but I don’t think I’ve missed a Mom vlog.
This a huge struggle with most young girls and women. It’s my mission to help women find their strength and to know that they are fearfully and wonderfully made and the beloved of God. Staring young, help young girls avoid the struggle of seeking love and acceptance in the wrong damaging places. So happy for your growth, for all our growth. We definitely all struggle with these issues at some time in our lives! Ur still young and there is so much left to see! Blessings!
You have a testimony. Ziya is your angel & you’re strong for sharing your story. I’ve been falling you for years (college says) & you’ve always been open but secure. I’m proud of you. You’re an amazing mother. Lord you’re doing an awesome job. I pray I’m half the mother you are. I love you Raven though you don’t know me, you are loved & appreciated.
It’s hard to parent period . I grew up with parents that co-parented , and I’m married and it can be hard . I understand at least being the kid in that situation. Being a parent is hard point blank . I think your doing an AWSOME JOB . Keep up the good work love ❤️
Thank you for telling your story. You are so inspiring. I started watching your channel right before you graduated from college which was the same year I graduated from college. I feel like I kinda grew up with you and learned a lot about life with you and because of you. Keep doing what you’re doing, but most importantly, keep being real.
your story is honestly the ultimate come up. you only need yourself to be strong and successful. bravo to you, queen👏🏽👏🏽💕 i have been watching your videos for about a year and to see you, Ziya, and even ur channel thrive is so inspiring to me❤️
I needed this video at this moment. I’m a sophomore in college and a fashion major and I’m just so lost in the world. Because I don’t know exactly what I wanna do and just like you said the major isn’t a easy major and school period isn’t easy and I’m just barely making it. With all that I have been experiencing down moments with depression and anxiety and unhappiness which isn’t me. My friendships are becoming more distant bc our paths are different.. etc etc.. basically it’s inspiring to see that there is hope at the end of the tunnel. Keep it up 💕
Deja Shaw there's always hope. I'm way older than you. Life changes your dreams change. Just follow your heart. Don't be afraid to start over. What matters is that you keep moving! Be blessed.
I could relate to this so much! I'm in my last semester at UNT and I'm finishing a year late. I keep telling myself it's a marathon, not a sprint! Been watching you for so long, since back in the RayBabyRay days and you have grown so much! You have always been a light that is full of inspiration! Your growth and progression as a youtuber, mom and person in general is amazing, I love it! Happy early birthday to Ziya! Thanks for sharing your story! Praying for many more blessings and progression your way!
It’s crazy how much we have in common with being a single mom from the very beginning, I’ve been on my own since I found out I was pregnant at the age of 17 and now I’m 23 with a 6 year old STILL SINGLE lol but it makes us and our child stronger and sometimes I like not having the extra headache then other times I wish I had that person I could go to when it comes to raising my daughter, at the end of the day that just proves how strong we are to be able to raise our children and not just giving up on life
i love how transparent you are. some youtubers are so quick to say that they are real people too, but don’t show us that they are. we don’t need people to spill every detail but we do require some form of transparency. we desire to connect and identify in real life and online. thanks for sharing your story Raven!! I really enjoyed listening.
I think you're an amazing mum, you'd find love, you'd find more happiness above all, Ziya would be a blessing to your world. You really deserve the best.
Raven, I truly love you and Ziya so much and want nothing but the absolute best for you both. I feel like we've been virtual homies for quite some time. You are such an incredible, strong woman and I can relate to so much of what you have been through. I was in a difficult space when I first found your channel and you helped me get through by giving me an outlet to just enjoy your creative content and to not think about my own issues in life. I appreciate that so much and I truly admire your ability to navigate through these incredibly challenging changes in your life with such grace and fortitude.
Rewatching this. Continued to be amazed and proud of you! So rare to find REAL influencers who are true to who they are instead of doing what’s popular! 💛
Thanks so much for being open & transparent. More UA-camrs need to do the same! We only see the nice part of life from them like the free stuff they receive or the new stuff that they've bought or were they are now. Sometimes seeing the struggle is more motivating than seeing the end result.
I’ve been watching since before you got pregnant and then found out I was pregnant like two months after you. My baby was a preemie so our kids birthday days are days apart (4/4/16). I was stuck in the hospital for over a month while he was in the nicu and your videos, along with others, really helped me get through that time without losing my mind. It’s awesome to see you do such great things. Continue to be great! 😘
Been a subbie since 2014 and Raven I've got nothing but love and respect for you. I've been inspired because of all that you share and I appreciate it. All of us do! Your strength is a blessing and your story is an example of why we should all keep going. You've grown so much Raven. Blessings.
I like this video I have been following you for a long time, so I know most of this stuff but it’s nice to hear this story all together. The first video of yours I watched is when you had box braids and you did a tutorial on like baby hairs and what not. It’s nice to see you grow and come this far. 💕
AWESOME RAY!!! I’ve been a subscriber since ‘13-‘14. So it’s been amazing to see your transition into motherhood. I had my daughter in ‘13 & like you I’ve been hustling to provide for her ever since (by myself). You’re doing very well for yourself & your daughter. Keep working hard & you’ll get everything you need
Lol I already knew almost all of this because I swear bff’s 😜💕 but I’m so happy that you took the time to actually sit and record this video for your viewers who might be going through something similar and giving them a little advice as well as just opening up to us more 💜😘
Let me just simply say thank you for sharing your story in more detail because it probably wasn't the "easiest" thing to do being that you are a private person and you also have to protect your Ziya Bear. But mother to mother....you are amazing and Ziya is so blessed to have you as a mommy. I've been a subscriber since your college vlogs and I see so much growth...that's why I've been following for so long; and we were also pregnant around the same time. I can't tell you how much your vlogs have helped me thus far. Keep going Raven...you can't imagine how many of us look up to you. I send love, prosperity and many hugs to you and Ziya.
Hey Raven! I usually don’t comment, but I have been a subscriber of yours for a while not. I began watching your pregnancy videos because I was pregnant the same time you were my daughter has turned two in February. I absolutely LOVE your channel and I try and watch every time you upload. You are so real and authentic and very relatable. Thanks for sharing your life and your story. I look forward to more videos! You are so inspiring. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
🇫🇷🇫🇷🇫🇷🇫🇷🇫🇷🇫🇷You are so humble it's really a pleasure to watch your videos they are so inspiring ... I'm french and despite the distance that separates you are one of the few people to whom I totally identify ... you will go far you are a true person and his is seen. kisses from 🇫🇷💕
I love how real & transparent you are with the things you go through. Of course it’s not easy to talk about and you don’t want people all up in your business but the insight you do give is relatable.
I will always support you similar situation found out I was pregnant January 2016 babies father cheated on me February 2016 Got fired from my job that I worked for 2 years at in March 2016 and couldn’t renew my lease April 2016 had to move in with a family member for a whole year it’s crazy how bad a situation could be but the outcome will be amazing and couldn’t renew my lease April 2016 had to move in with a family member for a whole year it’s crazy how bad a situation could be but the outcome will be amazing I had a breakdown wanted to have an abortion and I think God that I didn’t single mother to a amazing little girl back on my feet with the great job and doing it all by myself my next goal is to be UA-camr and making that a career in the future you’re a big inspiration !
Ive been watching you a little bit since before you announced your pregnancy with the cute little halloween costume video. I’ve loved watching your journey and just these past 2 years watching Ziya grow up!
Wow, I can relate so much to how you were feeling your senior year of college. I’m 19, will be 20 in May and I just had a baby (he’ll be 3 months on the 8th of April) I’m in cosmetology school but I’m not satisfied and don’t see myself doing hair as a career. I feel lost and like I’m failing in life, I don’t know what I want to do and I’m scared I’m going to disappoint the people around me. I feel like the 18-23 ages are tough. You want to have it all together but you’re still young. I wish my UA-cam would grow but I’m not dedicated and I’m scared to give it my all and fail, GIRL IM STRUGGLING 😩😩😂
I’m just at awe with your success story and the struggles you had to encounter to get to where you are today. This is your life story & you are still writing it. You are AMAZING. You don’t know how much of a role model you are to so many women & with just your story that you told, you have given some many women the access in their minds to exit from toxic relationships and to open themselves up to their own story. This is why I subscribed to you. I thought you were darn funny, pretty, and a amazing mom & watching you for the past year and half I have seen so much growth.
I can relate so much to the anxiety/depression I have never got treated until 2017 of last year for it I just turned 23 this year and I have no kids but I’ve always been introverted since I was in high school all the way up to now in my adult life and it has its pros and cons with not being social to have lil-to none friendships I prefer going to work and working on myself most people will call that being lonely but I don’t see anything wrong with working on yourself most of my friends I had I outgrown them I rather find myself first
I absolutely love your personality and your realness! You’re such an amazing mom and so motivated 💕 your comment section is full of positivity and love, and it’s truly a reflection of who you are and what you project. God bless you!
I love you, Raven. You’re so strong to go through that on your own and push through your whole life with people always judging you and you having anxiety and depression. I’m so glad I stumbled upon your channel, im like extremely grateful for that. I now look up to you, you are now my new idol. I truly, with all my heart, love you Raven ❤️💕
You are one of the strongest women I have ever seen. Everything happens for a reason hun. Keep doing exactly what you’re doing, you’re doing an amazing job! 🙌🏼❤️
I'm sure enough people have said this to you Raven, but you honestly do not know how much you help people by being so open with your subscribers... Been watching you for so long and I've never missed a video even with the time difference (I'm from London). You are so amazing x
Raven you are amazing. Ziya is extremely lucky and blessed to have a mother like you. You’re so inspiring and it’s so nice to see you grow over these years. Never stop being you! Love your videos and I will always support you and your beautiful daughter. Keep it up!
So much respect for your transparency! There are many young moms out there that need to know that you don't have to stay because of a child and your success is added inspiration to us all. Go girl definitely glad I subscribed!
When I tell you Raven is so humble ! I really enjoyed this ! She is a delight to listen too. She’s transparent without spilling too much !! So classy !!
I appreciate how candid your are. I watched you without subscribing until the video you did in 2015 about your panic attack. I knew then you were different and truly relatable. You have grown, but you continue to remain relatable. Thank you for sharing content and your life with us.
I love this. The first video of yours that I ever watched of yours popped up on my suggestions the other day and then I saw that it was THREE YEARS OLD. I was like "we are basically best friends" lmao. It's so fun being able to follow along with your story and learning things from hair tips to life advice. You motivate me (and I'm sure many others) to continue forth no matter what. I feel like I can relate to you more than any other youtuber and it is so refreshing to have this space to come to whether I'm happy or depressed. Thank you love and keep hustling.
I love your chatty vids. Difficult times help us bloom. That quote that says "When you think you're being buried, you're being planted... Bloom.🌹"
Krystal Bunting -- Wow!! I've never heard/read that quote but I LOVE IT!! Definitely a mantra and so, so TRUE. Thank you.
phitk2000 you're welcome. We all need encouragement at times.
Stealing!
Only youtuber I'll watch a 40 minute video for plus the ad at the end. I love you Raven ❤️
sameeee
We Can't All Be Everything me too !!!!
We Can't All Be Everything so true..I don't even watch 20min vids from other people 😂😂
We Can't All Be Everything
seriously and watch like a show
I appreciate how open and honest you are on your channel and wish you nothing but success in the future to come
One thing my mom taught me & i've never forgot is no-one can make you happy. Happiness is found first within yourself. So I'm glad you've made that realization because toxic-ness can really come from relying on others to make you feel whole when its yourself who needs to make you feel whole. Your an inspiration and I've been watching since you were in college. Love how you've grown and keep doing you.
Also ... thank you so much for shining the light on mental health. It’s so important in black people and black communities. And we need more people to encourage therapy and self love & family bonds.
Antonisha Lane THIS!!! I’m so proud of her for this!! ❤️❤️
I feel like I have a short attention span and can never really sit through long videos, but Raven Elyse is a whole different story! I have no problem sitting through her chit chat videos and after watching this I feel like she’s my friend and I love it. Raven, your a huge inspiration and I love you and Ziya so much!!
Came across a random video of yours and have been binge watching ever since trying to catch up. THIS answered so many random questions that I had and it's refreshing for a UA-camr to be so upfront and honest. Loving the realness of your channel.
I think everyone can learn from you. Your dedication to Ziya and your career is astounding. And you don't hide the rough times from the camera. Which is why I tell everyone and anyone about your channel!
I can't WAITTTT for someone to just come into your life and show you how special you really are! & just LOVE ON UUUUUU UGH 😩😩😩😩
Nathalie G. Right omg!
Jewelle Destanie sisssss yessss & ziya low key needs a step dad now 👀👀👀👀😩😩😩 lmao she getting older she need da poppin Christmas gifts 🎁
Well your wish came true lol
No one will ever understand the struggles of a single mom but a single mom..period. What we really do daily is inconceivable to some. Don’t listen to anyone else. You’re clearly killing it at motherhood, Ziya is so smart and happy. Keep your head up and stay true to you. Thank you for sharing and always being so real and relatable 💗
The pregnancy part hit home with being pregnant with unplanned pregnancy... Especially with a person that is not long term.. I had my daughter at 24 and I'm a single mother also... My daughter father was abusive. But ziya is a blessing girl and she gonna have your back no matter what
Wow- what a story. Thank you for sharing. You are a strong young woman, Raven. I am also prone to panic attacks ... in fact, I had my first one, on my wedding day!! Too much for words ... but I literally thought I was going to die. Could not breathe, hyperventilating, could not be still, it was awful. I still suffer panic attacks - the last one I had was a month after my mom was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer - I could not handle that news. What I find that amazingly works and wanted to share- essential oil of lavender. It works like a drug. It has literally stopped my panic attacks mid-stream. Just thought I would pass that info along .... I now live on essential oils ... lavender, bergamot, clary sage - these all keep me calm and feeling in a good mood. :-)
This is off topic, Amy, but what state are you from? Lol you have the same last name as me!
NC. :-)
Amy Bethea I'm from Baltimore, MD. Who knows, maybe we are related. :D
Bethea I
Thank you for sharing too. I will try these I do know lavender is calming I've never tried it for anxiety.
I haven’t watched his video yet, so I am not sure what it’s about. But I’d like to tell you I LOVE your channel and your videos. I am pregnant with my first child, I’m 22, I am still in school until May when I graduate. I’m still with the father so that’s good. But watching you daily with Ziya is so inspiring. Like you’re young, talented, beautiful and an amazing mother and I really hope to be the same. I just went back recently and watched old videos and it’s so amazing to see Ziya grow and grow. I started a channel to document my pregnancy and my baby boys growth and some memories for me and my boyfriend to have. As well as makeup and wigs and things I love. I had no idea what I was doing post grad. Now I know I’m taking time off to raise my boy. Basically, to not be a Chatty Cathy, you are helping me. A lot. Just watching you makes me so happy. I have a group with other moms on Insta and we all watch you. Like I don’t know how often you’re told that you have an impact on someone. But you have an impact on me. I’m just a simple girl, and I swear we have so much in common. Not a bunch of friends, I’ve got that Summer class too, all that. Watching you makes me feel like it will all work out. Which I’m sure it will. I just want to say thank you. For years, before Ziya, before you graduated, I’ve been watching. And you’ve been inspiring me. So thank you!
Believe it or not but God has his hands on your life. You’ve been transparent before but not in this way, you were led to make this video for a reason! This is just me speaking life over you, but you are going to reach A LOT of young single moms. Not just on UA-cam but on a lot of other platforms. Don’t shy away from transparency and sharing your journey. People appreciate it even though sometimes they are scared to speak up and say that relate. You are breaking out of your shell and it’s such a beautiful thing to see. Love you Raven ❤️
Treasure Bijon totally agree!
Raven you have a way about you that draws people in and make them want to listen to u which is truly a gift...U are a smart, strong and talented mom of a 2 year who just happens to be beautiful thank you for sharing alittle bit of your life with us... we are all rooting for u
I already knew all of this... and i knew I knew all of it when I clicked on the video lol but even though I already knew your story I just enjoy your content and there’s nothing wrong with a little refresher. If it means anything to you, you’re like my good mythical morning. I get excited when you post and I rewatch the same video over and over again. Like when it’s time to for me to eat dinner, I take my food, plop down on my bed and find a good video of yours that I haven’t seen in a while. I’m so glad you decided to do UA-cam full because I don’t know what else I’d do with my day if you hadn’t. 😂
Me too lol i swear i’ve watched all her vlogs at least 5xs each
I love your mom vlogs even though im like 15 😂😂but Ziya is so gorgeous and so are you. I applaud you for doing everything you do at a young age....single parenting and doing youtube has to be super duper difficult. You are literally my biggest inspiration.❤❤Gonna get some ice cream and watch this. I love you and your channel 👑❤
Princess Naya right lol I'm 16 and I watch like all of her videos
I’ve watched your past vlogs, so I knew your story. But to hear you sum it all up in one video was...whew. 💜 You’re a BEAUTIFUL, resilient woman who deserves all the happiness in the world. I hope you know that.
I really enjoyed watching this.
same. loved this video.
Same!
Your story will help someone else, that’s what makes this video so amazing! People rarely speak about mental health. People are also rarely genuine. You’re awesome! I’ve been watching you since you were in that college apartment! Love your channel.
Perfect example of the pain and suffering you have to go through to get to where you want to be. I know you’ll continue to do bigger and better things for yourself and Ziya💕 I’ve watched your videos for years and I hope you have been enjoying the process of your success like I have. Know you’ll get where you want to be and just be patient and enjoy the process. Try not to stress yourself out and make sure to give yourself credit, look where you are!You got yourself here 👏 You’ve always made me want a UA-cam channel and I’ve decided to make one this year so I’m fa sho mentioning you in my first video lol I’m wishing you peace love happiness health and wealth foreverr keep doing ya thing Queen👑
Olivia Huffman awe this is so sweet and I agree
I am so glad you're speaking on your experience with the mental health system. I had a similar experience. I also went there voluntary and was locked up. Absolutely the lowest point in my life! The staff told my mom the doctor would keep me until my insurance ran out. Thank God my mom is a nurse and knew she could break me out after the 48 hour mandatory hold. ..I still struggle with depression but family support is key. ❤
Who else just scrolls down the comments while the video is playing?
Asia Francis me!
Asia Francis some too
Yep
Every time
🖐🏾
Raven...let me tell you this! I am so extremely proud of you. I have been watching you forever. Although our personal stories are different. I am happy to see where you are today. I’ve been following you since your college days and you have grown so much. So as a fellow mom with a daughter who is almost two years old and a UA-camr, if you ever want to give a friendship a try, I would totally be down for it. And I’m definitely not saying that to collab or anything because that’s not what I’m looking for. I just love how you pushed past all obstacles thrown your way. You are stronger than you know. And I would just love to have a dope friend like that. So don’t be afraid to hit my inbox on IG if you are interested in my offer. No hard feelings if you don’t. ☺️
Dang Raven, you are a strong, amazing, brilliant young woman! I am definitely one of those people who started watching your channel when you started doing the mom vlogs, and The traveling sisterhood vlogs, and I can say that I have seen such a change in you! I didn’t even know half of these things so it was really cool to learn so much about you from this video and I appreciate you filming it. We are the same exact age, I turn 25 in about a week. So even though I don’t have any children, I still feel like I can relate to you, we both graduated at the same time and struggled in school & had toxic relationships. And overall I just love to see your growth and the direction your channel is taking. So thank you I really appreciate this video!
I've been subbed since before you graduated college and I have loved watching you become the woman you are now ❤ Successful entrepreneur and a wonderful mom. You make Shambles look good 😊
I have been watching you since your college days. I admire how much you have grown as a person. You literally are so inspiring. You can handle any situation with grace and independence. Love you Raven. Keep making us proud. Ziya has someone great to look up to.
I love your channel! I found you this year only, and i spent nights to watch it all from the beginning! And im 22, got pregnant in toxic relationship, decided that i need to end it too and that i need to take full responsibility of what is coming!!! Watching your videos just gives me hope and love back to myself and whats about to come!!! Thank you and i hope that life for you just get better and better!!!!! All the best!!!!
I loved this video! The fact that you can come on to UA-cam and share about all the tough stuff you have been through is so empowering. I look at you now, and it is hard to believe that you were ever in a very dark spot in you life because of how strong and confident you are. Thanks for being vulnerable and showing us that life goes on!!
Amen to this. I was thinking the exact same thing. It definitely gives me hope and motivation/inspiration.
You’re an amazing mother and always come through with the realness! Life isn’t always perfect and being a mother isn’t always easy. I’ve been subscribed from the beginning and have always loved your videos. I love how you keep your videos raw and real unlike some other UA-camrs who make it seem like life is easy. Keep up the good work and love seeing your channel grow 💗
I’m a Virgo as well. Also introverted . I can relate to you on so many levels,girl! Also a single mom of a two year old ! Lol keep up the great work
"It's hard to explain without actually explaining it" ...Ray! Jus explain it your truth honestly will help other young women who are going to through the exact same thing.....it's not easy being a single mom & your story is special to ALOT of us cause we can all relate! 😰😰😰💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽 I watched you when I was pregnant. Pretty much the exact same situation & the depression IS REALLLLLLL. I love the transparency in this video btw! Thank you!
I can definitely relate to your college story Raven! I was supposed to graduate December 2017, but I failed a class and had to retake it. I was devastated but I pulled through, and I will be graduating in a couple of weeks!
RAVEN! Idk if you know how inspiring you are. Despite your struggles you still keep pushing and you don’t make excuses for yourself and that’s a place I wish to be. You’re beautiful and you’re a wonderful mom and you’re very successful and I know you’ll go even further and just watching you makes me want to be a better me 💕
I absolutely loved this video! So open and honest. It felt like I was sitting down talking to my best friend. Thank you for being you.❤️
Thank you for having this UA-cam channel and being so open with your subscribers.! I love the fact that you’re so humble and true to yourself. I feel so happy watching you and it makes me happy because we have a lot of stuff in common. I pray for you that your UA-cam channel will continue to grow and I will always support you, you’re a great and genuine person.
I’ve watched all your stuff. Yet still I sat and watched this because now I’m a parent and I relate so much. Like you said PARENTING is hard in general. I relate to that so much because although my partner and I parent together. We are still individuals and have different parenting techniques & also everyday is new for us we are learning as parents, we ain’t got all the answers but you my friend are a SUPERMOM!
This is a quality video which can help a lot of people who relate. I celebrate your bravery and strength Raven. This is just too good. ❤️
Love the long video! I’ve been having a stressful day, well stressful week and just being able to sit and just listen to you talk for 40 minutes feels like I’m just sitting talking to a best friend 🤗
i’ve been watching you since before you were pregnant and i have fallen more in love with how your channel is growing and growth in your videos, uploads etc i’m not a mom but love your content and you. my favorite youtuber so chill and down to earth and your channel caters to so many different people makeup, lifestyle/volgs, acne prone, hair you are a one stop shop. can’t wait to see your channel grow more! 🌸
I love your personality I love the way you overcome certain things that could derail someone so young. love how you're so blunt and to the point. you're a great mom and I will alway support you.
I’m in the nail salon watching this 😩🙌🏽 #RavenElyse over everything
Your so inspiring and it was really nice to hear this from you. The struggle of co-parenting is hard, but your a great mother and Ziyah is so lucky to have you as a mom.
Oh wow, I remember when you made the video in your parents’ backyard while holding Ziya, and you were giving a recap of your panic attack, but for whatever reason, I was under the impression that you had had that “breakdown” AFTER you had already had Ziya. To now here that you were actually pregnant during that time...all I can say is wow. I’m genuinely so glad that you received the love and support from your family that you needed, and that you were able to overcome that traumatic time.
You make such a huge impact in my life! thank you so so much for making me smile after watching ur videos. Im 12 years old turning 14 in august and i struggle with separation anxiety and I'm always super insecure about my weight because the medicine i am on makes me really hungry when i just ate. I am also going through stuff with my bff hopefully we can make up though! Thank you so much for making me feel that it will get better. Your story will help so many people including me! Love you and Ziya so much!
Maybe it’s the fact that we’re birthday twins, but I’ve always felt as though I could really relate to you. There’s very few creators that I watch all where I enjoy all of their content but I don’t think I’ve missed a Mom vlog.
I’m SO here for this video,your voice is surprisingly relaxing 🖤
This a huge struggle with most young girls and women. It’s my mission to help women find their strength and to know that they are fearfully and wonderfully made and the beloved of God. Staring young, help young girls avoid the struggle of seeking love and acceptance in the wrong damaging places. So happy for your growth, for all our growth. We definitely all struggle with these issues at some time in our lives! Ur still young and there is so much left to see! Blessings!
You have a testimony. Ziya is your angel & you’re strong for sharing your story. I’ve been falling you for years (college says) & you’ve always been open but secure. I’m proud of you. You’re an amazing mother. Lord you’re doing an awesome job. I pray I’m half the mother you are. I love you Raven though you don’t know me, you are loved & appreciated.
It’s hard to parent period . I grew up with parents that co-parented , and I’m married and it can be hard . I understand at least being the kid in that situation. Being a parent is hard point blank . I think your doing an AWSOME JOB . Keep up the good work love ❤️
Great video! Im honored you felt comfortable to share all of this with us. Youre an amazing woman, never forget that.
Thank you for telling your story. You are so inspiring. I started watching your channel right before you graduated from college which was the same year I graduated from college. I feel like I kinda grew up with you and learned a lot about life with you and because of you. Keep doing what you’re doing, but most importantly, keep being real.
I've been going through so much with college at the moment but your content is seriously helping me stay sane.
your story is honestly the ultimate come up. you only need yourself to be strong and successful. bravo to you, queen👏🏽👏🏽💕
i have been watching your videos for about a year and to see you, Ziya, and even ur channel thrive is so inspiring to me❤️
I found you while you were going through all that and I've never left. Glad I did!
I needed this video at this moment. I’m a sophomore in college and a fashion major and I’m just so lost in the world. Because I don’t know exactly what I wanna do and just like you said the major isn’t a easy major and school period isn’t easy and I’m just barely making it. With all that I have been experiencing down moments with depression and anxiety and unhappiness which isn’t me. My friendships are becoming more distant bc our paths are different.. etc etc.. basically it’s inspiring to see that there is hope at the end of the tunnel. Keep it up 💕
Deja Shaw there's always hope. I'm way older than you. Life changes your dreams change. Just follow your heart. Don't be afraid to start over. What matters is that you keep moving! Be blessed.
I could relate to this so much! I'm in my last semester at UNT and I'm finishing a year late. I keep telling myself it's a marathon, not a sprint! Been watching you for so long, since back in the RayBabyRay days and you have grown so much! You have always been a light that is full of inspiration! Your growth and progression as a youtuber, mom and person in general is amazing, I love it! Happy early birthday to Ziya! Thanks for sharing your story! Praying for many more blessings and progression your way!
It’s crazy how much we have in common with being a single mom from the very beginning, I’ve been on my own since I found out I was pregnant at the age of 17 and now I’m 23 with a 6 year old STILL SINGLE lol but it makes us and our child stronger and sometimes I like not having the extra headache then other times I wish I had that person I could go to when it comes to raising my daughter, at the end of the day that just proves how strong we are to be able to raise our children and not just giving up on life
i love how transparent you are. some youtubers are so quick to say that they are real people too, but don’t show us that they are. we don’t need people to spill every detail but we do require some form of transparency. we desire to connect and identify in real life and online. thanks for sharing your story Raven!! I really enjoyed listening.
I think you're an amazing mum,
you'd find love,
you'd find more happiness
above all, Ziya would be a blessing to your world.
You really deserve the best.
Hi! I'm relatively new to this channel but I immediately loved it. Ur so open and aren't afraid to show the ups AND the downs of life.
Raven, I truly love you and Ziya so much and want nothing but the absolute best for you both. I feel like we've been virtual homies for quite some time. You are such an incredible, strong woman and I can relate to so much of what you have been through. I was in a difficult space when I first found your channel and you helped me get through by giving me an outlet to just enjoy your creative content and to not think about my own issues in life. I appreciate that so much and I truly admire your ability to navigate through these incredibly challenging changes in your life with such grace and fortitude.
Rewatching this. Continued to be amazed and proud of you! So rare to find REAL influencers who are true to who they are instead of doing what’s popular! 💛
Let me just grab a snack real quick! You are a true inspiration can't wait to hear your story
Thanks so much for being open & transparent. More UA-camrs need to do the same! We only see the nice part of life from them like the free stuff they receive or the new stuff that they've bought or were they are now. Sometimes seeing the struggle is more motivating than seeing the end result.
I’ve been watching since before you got pregnant and then found out I was pregnant like two months after you. My baby was a preemie so our kids birthday days are days apart (4/4/16). I was stuck in the hospital for over a month while he was in the nicu and your videos, along with others, really helped me get through that time without losing my mind. It’s awesome to see you do such great things. Continue to be great! 😘
Anonymous thank you!
Been a subbie since 2014 and Raven I've got nothing but love and respect for you. I've been inspired because of all that you share and I appreciate it. All of us do! Your strength is a blessing and your story is an example of why we should all keep going. You've grown so much Raven. Blessings.
I like this video I have been following you for a long time, so I know most of this stuff but it’s nice to hear this story all together. The first video of yours I watched is when you had box braids and you did a tutorial on like baby hairs and what not. It’s nice to see you grow and come this far. 💕
You are a strong women for making this video! This is deeply personal and it’s amazing that you shared this with us. ❤️
AWESOME RAY!!! I’ve been a subscriber since ‘13-‘14. So it’s been amazing to see your transition into motherhood. I had my daughter in ‘13 & like you I’ve been hustling to provide for her ever since (by myself). You’re doing very well for yourself & your daughter. Keep working hard & you’ll get everything you need
Lol I already knew almost all of this because I swear bff’s 😜💕 but I’m so happy that you took the time to actually sit and record this video for your viewers who might be going through something similar and giving them a little advice as well as just opening up to us more 💜😘
Let me just simply say thank you for sharing your story in more detail because it probably wasn't the "easiest" thing to do being that you are a private person and you also have to protect your Ziya Bear. But mother to mother....you are amazing and Ziya is so blessed to have you as a mommy. I've been a subscriber since your college vlogs and I see so much growth...that's why I've been following for so long; and we were also pregnant around the same time. I can't tell you how much your vlogs have helped me thus far. Keep going Raven...you can't imagine how many of us look up to you. I send love, prosperity and many hugs to you and Ziya.
From one virgo to another....we are strong as women we find strength from within...stay strong and keep the videos coming u doing really good...
Ms Jackson you are right about that! #virgosrock
Hey Raven! I usually don’t comment, but I have been a subscriber of yours for a while not. I began watching your pregnancy videos because I was pregnant the same time you were my daughter has turned two in February. I absolutely LOVE your channel and I try and watch every time you upload. You are so real and authentic and very relatable. Thanks for sharing your life and your story. I look forward to more videos! You are so inspiring. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
🇫🇷🇫🇷🇫🇷🇫🇷🇫🇷🇫🇷You are so humble it's really a pleasure to watch your videos they are so inspiring ... I'm french and despite the distance that separates you are one of the few people to whom I totally identify ... you will go far you are a true person and his is seen. kisses from 🇫🇷💕
I love how real & transparent you are with the things you go through. Of course it’s not easy to talk about and you don’t want people all up in your business but the insight you do give is relatable.
I will always support you similar situation found out I was pregnant January 2016 babies father cheated on me February 2016 Got fired from my job that I worked for 2 years at in March 2016 and couldn’t renew my lease April 2016 had to move in with a family member for a whole year it’s crazy how bad a situation could be but the outcome will be amazing and couldn’t renew my lease April 2016 had to move in with a family member for a whole year it’s crazy how bad a situation could be but the outcome will be amazing I had a breakdown wanted to have an abortion and I think God that I didn’t single mother to a amazing little girl back on my feet with the great job and doing it all by myself my next goal is to be UA-camr and making that a career in the future you’re a big inspiration !
I’ve been watching you since you were in college, and its been so amazing to see how far you have come. you inspire me everyday 💗💗
yes i hve been watching back since college times i love her videos
Ive been watching you a little bit since before you announced your pregnancy with the cute little halloween costume video. I’ve loved watching your journey and just these past 2 years watching Ziya grow up!
Wow, I can relate so much to how you were feeling your senior year of college. I’m 19, will be 20 in May and I just had a baby (he’ll be 3 months on the 8th of April) I’m in cosmetology school but I’m not satisfied and don’t see myself doing hair as a career. I feel lost and like I’m failing in life, I don’t know what I want to do and I’m scared I’m going to disappoint the people around me. I feel like the 18-23 ages are tough. You want to have it all together but you’re still young. I wish my UA-cam would grow but I’m not dedicated and I’m scared to give it my all and fail, GIRL IM STRUGGLING 😩😩😂
I’m just at awe with your success story and the struggles you had to encounter to get to where you are today. This is your life story & you are still writing it. You are AMAZING. You don’t know how much of a role model you are to so many women & with just your story that you told, you have given some many women the access in their minds to exit from toxic relationships and to open themselves up to their own story. This is why I subscribed to you. I thought you were darn funny, pretty, and a amazing mom & watching you for the past year and half I have seen so much growth.
I can relate so much to the anxiety/depression I have never got treated until 2017 of last year for it I just turned 23 this year and I have no kids but I’ve always been introverted since I was in high school all the way up to now in my adult life and it has its pros and cons with not being social to have lil-to none friendships I prefer going to work and working on myself most people will call that being lonely but I don’t see anything wrong with working on yourself most of my friends I had I outgrown them I rather find myself first
I’ve been following you since your OOTD posts on Tumblr. It’s been so cool to see your growth over these years, you’re definitely an inspiration!
I absolutely love your personality and your realness! You’re such an amazing mom and so motivated 💕 your comment section is full of positivity and love, and it’s truly a reflection of who you are and what you project. God bless you!
I love you, Raven. You’re so strong to go through that on your own and push through your whole life with people always judging you and you having anxiety and depression. I’m so glad I stumbled upon your channel, im like extremely grateful for that. I now look up to you, you are now my new idol. I truly, with all my heart, love you Raven ❤️💕
Raven your skin is GLOWING!
You are one of the strongest women I have ever seen. Everything happens for a reason hun. Keep doing exactly what you’re doing, you’re doing an amazing job! 🙌🏼❤️
If I'm watching something else on UA-cam and your notification pops up, bye to what I was watching, I'll get to it later,Raven is on!
I'm sure enough people have said this to you Raven, but you honestly do not know how much you help people by being so open with your subscribers... Been watching you for so long and I've never missed a video even with the time difference (I'm from London). You are so amazing x
omg you should've done another Draw my life video lol
Brandi Nicole lmao she grown and sophisticated now 😂👑
Raven you are amazing. Ziya is extremely lucky and blessed to have a mother like you. You’re so inspiring and it’s so nice to see you grow over these years. Never stop being you! Love your videos and I will always support you and your beautiful daughter. Keep it up!
I'm new but I love your content. You're extremely creative, talented, and a great mom. I get so excited when I see you're notification pops up.
So much respect for your transparency! There are many young moms out there that need to know that you don't have to stay because of a child and your success is added inspiration to us all. Go girl definitely glad I subscribed!
Who was here before the thumbnail got updated 🙋🏽♀️
Rosemarie Brown ig
What is a thumbnail as in UA-cam stuff
Serena Saidi it’s the picture that you see before you click on the video.
Not me😂
When I tell you Raven is so humble ! I really enjoyed this ! She is a delight to listen too. She’s transparent without spilling too much !! So classy !!
This definitely made me feel like you’re one of my friends (clearly couldn’t have watched the whole thing yet). SN: my sister’s name is Maya too lol
I appreciate how candid your are. I watched you without subscribing until the video you did in 2015 about your panic attack. I knew then you were different and truly relatable. You have grown, but you continue to remain relatable. Thank you for sharing content and your life with us.
Thanks raven!
Excellent advice, I love how open you were
I love this. The first video of yours that I ever watched of yours popped up on my suggestions the other day and then I saw that it was THREE YEARS OLD. I was like "we are basically best friends" lmao. It's so fun being able to follow along with your story and learning things from hair tips to life advice. You motivate me (and I'm sure many others) to continue forth no matter what. I feel like I can relate to you more than any other youtuber and it is so refreshing to have this space to come to whether I'm happy or depressed. Thank you love and keep hustling.
The first video I watched of yours was something about being tall and confident.
Girl you are strong, I am glad I found your channel. I really love how open and real you are. Keep being you Raven❤️