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So many of you have told me you loved Tilly’s clever and quirky new book My Dear Hemlock, a book written in the voice of a demon mentor coaching her underling on how to derail a Christian woman’s walk with God. Taking inspiration from The Screwtape Lettersby C.S. Lewis, Tilly’s version is tailored to the specific struggles that Christian women face today – frustration in marriage, social media distractions, pride disguised as virtue, and the slow drift that can happen in daily family life.
We talked about how the fictional format of the book gave Tilly room to say the hard things that are so easy to sidestep when we’re just trying to get through the week. She shares what it means to see homemaking not as a list of chores but as a sort of battleground on which small choices have big consequences. We also explore the temptation to fixate on a spouse’s flaws instead of tending to our own spiritual health as well as why that is so spiritually dangerous.
Tilly doesn’t just offer observations; she imparts deeply practical wisdom, things like how to build upon gratitude when your first impulse is annoyance, how to recognize when the enemy is whispering half-truths, and why community and prayer aren’t just helpful but essential. This episode will be sure to challenge you, encourage you, and make you think twice the next time that you scroll through Instagram or silently stew over a spouse’s mistake.
In This Episode
[0:36] – I welcome Tilly Dillehay, author of My Dear Hemlock, to the podcast for this episode!
[1:15] – Tilly reveals how the book came to fruition.
[3:30] – Hear how writing a fictional book helped Tilly express real-life marital struggles and spiritual challenges that Christian women face.
[6:03] – Although not from a charismatic tradition, Tilly finds value in acknowledging Satan’s real influence.
[7:28] – I stress how small annoyances are spiritual battlegrounds on which we choose our response.
[10:57] – Women’s imaginative power can harm relationships if misused as criticism instead of praise.
[12:07] – I warn against magnifying minor flaws in loved ones.
[14:08] – Tilly advises cultivating daily gratitude instead of scrutinizing a spouse’s faith.
[17:29] – By gently initiating nightly prayer, it’s created deeper connection and communication in marriage.
[18:34] – Many marriages unfortunately fall apart from unspoken contempt that could’ve been avoided with small, daily kindnesses.
[21:34] – I point out how the media distorts women’s expectations and how prayer often gets derailed by distracting thoughts.
[22:30] – Tilly suggests praying with others and using scripture as structure for focused prayer.
[25:02] – Instead of promising prayer and then forgetting, Tilly prefers to pray immediately and let people know that she just did.
[28:36] – Tilly disabled Safari on her phone entirely because phones are ultimately designed to steal time.
[30:37] – Distractions vary per person; mine was audio, while a friend’s was compulsive online shopping.
[32:24] – Tilly asserts that homes are spiritual battlegrounds and that women play a key role in their power.
[35:55] – Tilly advises beginning with prayer and learning from godly women whose homes reflect familial, not material, richness.
[36:54] – Neglecting prayer and community can ultimately open the door to spiritual vulnerability.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Tilly Dillehay’s Home Fires Podcast
Books
My Dear Hemlock by Tilly Dillehay
The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis
12 Ways Your Phone Is Changing You by Tony Reinke
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
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We had to sit down and recount this story since it sort of went viral on Instagram and I got thousands of messages and comments and emails about it!
A few weeks ago, we accidentally stumbled across something totally unexpected – that we may not have actually been legally married for the past 22 years! That’s right! Listen in as Jesse and I fill you in!
It all started with a passport – or rather, the lack of a current one. I was prepping for a trip to Colorado Springs for some filming and radio interviews when we realized that my passport had expired and that the window to renew it was way too tight. The backup plan was to try to get a Real ID, which turned into a long, chaotic day at the DMV, but the DMV line wasn’t even the wildest part.
While confidently presenting my organized folder of documents (thanks to Jesse), I was told that our marriage license wasn’t valid because it wasn’t the right kind. Apparently, what we’ve had all these years was just the signed license from our wedding, not the certified marriage certificate with the state seal. We had used that same document to change my name, get a driver’s license, even get passports, but now, we weren’t so sure someone ever mailed the signed license back after our wedding like we were supposed to.
The more we pieced it together, the more we realized what had actually happened, and we hope that you’ll join as we walk you through this hilarious story of minor panic and the weird legal questions that come along with the realization that you might not actually be legally married… more than two decades after the wedding!
In This Episode
[2:24] – Jesse and I are sharing how we recently discovered that our marriage of 22 years might not have been legally recognized!
[3:37] – I nearly missed a trip due to delays getting a Real ID required for flying.
[6:43] – A week before traveling, I found that my passport hadn’t been renewed like she had believed.
[8:44] – I realized that there was unfortunately no way to get my passport renewed in time for my trip, meaning that I had to get a Real ID.
[10:53] – Despite an estimated 15-minute wait time, I actually spent nearly two hours just to reach the DMV desk.
[14:05] – Hear how DMV staff revealed that our marriage license wasn’t valid without an official state seal.
[18:04] – Jesse realized that we likely never filed the marriage license, so no certificate was ever issued.
[18:45] – I began to worry that Jesse and I were never legally married due to paperwork mishandling.
[20:32] – Hear how we anxiously submitted an expedited request, unsure if Kansas even had our marriage certificate.
[22:15] – I came to realize that many other people have also mistaken a license copy for a valid marriage certificate.
[24:35] – Hear how we learned that there’s a difference between a marriage license and a certificate with a raised seal.
[27:20] – The official certificate finally arrived, relieving us and allowing me to finally apply for my Real ID.
[29:52] – I found it funny that this rare paperwork error came from Jesse, since he is usually the more detail-oriented one!
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
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Listen in this week as I am joined by not just one guest but two – Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith, authors of the new book Building True Intimacy: Creating a Connection That Stands the Test of Time, a project which they themselves refer to as a labor of love. Together, Joanna and Matthew openly share their journey of rebuilding their marriage after Matthew revealed his struggles with sexual addiction and pornography. They go beyond just surviving to thriving, offering insights into how to create a thriving connection that doesn’t just survive the bumps but actually grows stronger through them. Their approach isn’t about perfecting your partner or expecting them to “fix” your emotional triggers but rather about learning how to heal and grow together.
Listen in as we talk about the importance of small daily moments and how a simple interaction, like how we deal with frustration or small disagreements, can either draw us closer or create distance. They, for example, share some powerful insights into their own struggles with emotional dysregulation and how it often leads to disconnection, but it isn’t just about avoiding the pitfalls. It’s also about learning how to show up as emotionally healthy individuals and what it takes to keep the relationship itself thriving!
Hear how Joanna and Matthew learned to handle some tough topics like finances and how taking a step back to understand each other’s emotional states can truly transform conversations. We also discuss their “animacy pyramid,” a framework which they developed to conceptualize what makes a truly thriving relationship.
Whether you’re struggling with small daily challenges or looking for ways to deepen your emotional connection, this episode is packed with real wisdom that can help shift the way you approach love, intimacy, and your partnership. If you’re in a relationship or thinking about what it takes to make love last, you will not want to miss this conversation, and be sure to grab a copy of their book!
In This Episode
[0:35] – This episode’s guests are authors of the book Building True Intimacy, Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith!
[1:43] – After overcoming betrayal and addiction, Matthew and Joanna’s book helps guide couples toward thriving relationships.
[4:14] – Maintaining emotional regulation leads to lasting connection, regardless of the issue or situation.
[7:57] – Hear how Matthew learned that projecting insecurity onto others can affect the health of relationships.
[10:23] – Emotional dependency in relationships can cause disconnection and halt personal growth.
[12:42] – I have realized that self-worth should come from within, not from external validation.
[15:45] – Joanna believes that healthy compromise means finding mutually beneficial solutions, not taking turns losing.
[18:58] – To build a strong relationship, it’s important to address underlying fears prior to discussing practical issues.
[22:35] – Matthew adds that finding common ground in core values helps couples overcome differences.
[24:11] – Joanna argues that taking a step back from pain helps you recognize that your partner does still care.
[27:14] – Building a thriving relationship requires honesty, safety, trust, vulnerability, and persistent effort.
[30:59] – Ultimately, small, daily choices significantly shape the resilience of a marriage.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
Building True Intimacy: Creating a Connection That Stands the Test of Time by Joanna Raabsmith & Matthew Raabsmith
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
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My online friend turned real-life friend, Whitney Newby, joins me this week for an episode specifically to encourage moms! Whitney is the author of the book Lift Your Eyes: Daily Invitations to Behold Christ in Motherhood, and I have long admired her heart for motherhood.
Her new book brims with the kind of grounded and graceful encouragement that so many of us desperately need when we are in the thick of it – tired, anxious, stretched thin, or even just quietly wondering if we’re doing anything right.
We talk about what it means to see motherhood not as a detour from a more “important” purpose but as the exact work that we have been called to in this season. Whitney shares how her early postpartum challenges taught her dependence on God in a whole new way and how even something as simple as changing her response from “What?” to “Yes, love” transformed the atmosphere of her home.
Tune in to hear Whitney and I talk about anxiety, identity, and the constant pressure to “fill our cups.” Whitney’s stories and insights definitely are not sugar-coated, but they are soaked in truth and gentleness, so if you are in a season where the needs feel never-ending, your patience is paper-thin, and/or you’re wondering how you’re supposed to keep going, this episode is for you, and definitely be sure to grab a copy of Lift Your Eyes!
In This Episode
[0:35] – This episode’s guest is the author of the book Lift Your Eyes, Whitney Newby!
[2:12] – Hear how motherhood has grown Whitney’s faith, teaching her to trust God more than her own control.
[5:50] – Whitney learned as a nurse that saying “I have time” builds deep connections with both patients and children when busy.
[7:52] – Whitney feels that even being present with her kids for ten minutes can create lasting memories.
[10:43] – True strength in motherhood doesn’t come from cultural comforts or self-reliance.
[12:38] – Praying with Jesse in weakness has revealed God’s power to multiply emotional scarcity.
[14:48] – Hear how Changing a snappy “What?” to a gentler “Yes, love?” has transformed Whitney’s home atmosphere.
[17:35] – Whitney believes that moms shape their homes’ emotional climates.
[20:33] – I really like the title of Whitney’s book and cherish the image of lifting our eyes to God when experiencing overwhelming daily challenges.
[21:15] – Whitney reveals that, in chaotic seasons, she connects with God through audio Bibles and quick “flare prayers.”
[24:36] – We discover how Whitney added minimal watercolor art to her book to visually reflect calm and spiritual beauty.
[26:01] – Hear about Whitney’s business Brighter Day Press.
[28:39] – I value Whitney’s generosity, humor, and authenticity, calling her book a peaceful gift for mothers that listeners should read!
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Brighter Day Press
Follow Whitney on Instagram
Books
Lift Your Eyes: Daily Invitations to Behold Christ in Motherhood by Whitney Newby
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
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If, like me, you have ever told yourself, “Tonight, I will put my phone away by 8 p.m.,” only to find yourself two hours later mindlessly scrolling through TikTok, then you will probably feel seen in this episode, and I am sharing something that has made a huge difference for both Jesse and me: the Opal app.
This app has really helped me set real boundaries with my phone… and actually stick to them. Jesse and I talk about how Opal helped me finally break a pattern I didn’t even realize had such a grip on my evenings and how reclaiming that time has changed way more than I even expected! We’re talking about better sleep, better connection with each other, a tidier house, and a return to things I actually love, like reading fiction instead of just perusing strangers’ Instagram posts!
I also get honest about the struggles that I had at first (because setting boundaries with your phone sounds simple, but if it were that easy, we’d all be doing it already)! I share what worked, what surprised me, and why the goal isn’t perfection but awareness and choice, so if you are feeling like your evenings (or your whole day) keep slipping away one scroll at a time, this might give you some ideas!
In This Episode
[0:35] – Despite my plan to use my phone only as a landline after 8 p.m., I found that I lacked that willpower and needed additional help.
[3:33] – I ended up downloading the Opal app to curb late-night scrolling.
[6:17] – I explain that I set Opal to block social media apps nightly without any ability to override it.
[8:56] – After some trial and error, I managed to customize Opal’s settings to avoid emergencies but still stay disciplined.
[10:28] – Jesse notes that he has become more present and attentive at night after installing the Opal app.
[11:12] – Hear how I realized that I could meet my work goals while limiting app use to three hours.
[12:27] – Mindfully limiting phone use helped Jesse break habits of mindless scrolling.
[13:20] – Choosing to read fiction at night instead of scrolling has revived so much joy and fulfillment for me.
[14:38] – Without nighttime phone distractions, I also now get better sleep and feel more productive each day.
[17:09] – I explain how shutting down apps early has improved our home organization, marriage, and overall sense of presence.
[19:54] – Seeing how much of my lifetime I’d waste on my phone really gave me a huge wake-up call!
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Opal App
Books
Little House on the Prairie (book series) by Laura Ingalls Wilder
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
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Welcome to the 300th episode of The Crystal Paine Show! Joining me this week is Mary Marantz, author of several books including her newest, Underestimated: The Surprisingly Simple Shift to Quit Playing Small, Name the Fear, and Move Forward Anyway. This conversation is raw, honest, and deeply personal one, and in Underestimated, Mary explores how to stop playing small and move past the fear that holds us back, a message that resonated so much with me as I read the book.
We talk about how Mary’s childhood in a rundown trailer in rural West Virginia shaped her journey, including how she overcame immense insecurity and the fear of failure, only to find herself still grappling with feelings of inadequacy after achieving what seemed like the pinnacle of success. You’ll hear about her struggles with perfectionism, how she used it as a way to prove herself, and how she’s learning to let go of that.
Mary’s openness about her own fears, especially about being unlovable after succeeding, is a reminder how easy it is to let fear’s voice be so loud that it cripples us from taking action. And then we miss out on so many gifts and blessings and the fulfillment and strength that comes from not letting fear win.
This episode of the show is a beautiful reminder to let go of the armor that we often wear and start showing up authentically, trusting that our worth isn’t defined by how small we started or how much we have accomplished. Listen in for an empowering conversation about stepping into who we are meant to be, even when it feels scary, and be sure to grab a copy of Mary’s new book!
In This Episode
[0:35] – I felt deeply connected to Mary‘s introduction to her new book.
[1:56] – Mary believes that being overlooked fosters empathy, shaping us into people who truly see others.
[5:45] – Mary grew up in poverty and still wrestles with defining herself beyond the underdog narrative.
[8:27] – Purpose outweighs proving others wrong.
[9:59] – Fearing failure, Mary nearly skipped applying to Yale until a friend intervened and believed in her.
[12:06] – Trying to mask insecurity with achievements.
[15:02] – Mary used perfectionism as an armor, trying to prove her worth after her mother’s abandonment.
[18:35] – In striving to need no one, Mary ended up becoming isolated and heartbroken by her walls.
[20:40] – Fear of failure can come from the pressure to always be the one who comes through.
[23:07] – Mary asserts that those who lack true passion aren’t afraid, but creatives fear whether their work will matter.
[25:13] – Naming fear’s predictable patterns weakens its power!
[28:03] – I explain how facing fear in tough situations builds courage, preparing us for challenges in the future.
[30:24] – As is scientifically supported, the brain predicts outcomes based on past experiences, but doing difficult things can reshape this.
[33:17] – I express admiration for Mary’s gift for words in her book.
[36:08] – Mary explains the five achiever types and invites listeners to take her free quiz online!
[39:28] – I applaud Mary’s perseverance and encourage others to read her work!
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Mary Marantz
AchieverQuiz.com
NametheFear.com
Mary Marantz on Instagram (@marymarantz)
Books
Dirt: Growing Strong Roots in What Makes the Broken Beautiful by Mary Marantz
Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots: Finding Grace, Freedom, and Purpose in an Overachieving World by Mary Marantz
Underestimated: The Surprisingly Simple Shift to Quit Playing Small, Name the Fear, and Move Forward Anyway by Mary Marantz
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
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Jesse and I are back in the studio this week together to talk all about raising financially confident teens, I have personally seen firsthand how a few key mindset shifts can totally change the game, not just for them but for the entire family dynamic
In this episode, we are unpacking five powerful money mindsets that can shape your teen’s relationship with money in ways that last far beyond high school! These aren’t just fluffy theories or one-size-fits-all strategies. We’re talking about practical shifts – some that may even challenge how you think about money!
Tune in as I get into why a $20 hoodie “costs” more than $20 (and how that concept can seriously shift your teen’s thinking), why giving your kid everything might actually rob them of future success, and how the most valuable lessons often come from small mistakes. We also take a look at why compound interest isn’t just a boring math concept but one of the most exciting opportunities your teen can tap into if they understand it early enough.
Jesse and I explore how creativity and contentment can become your teen’s financial superpowers and how you can help them develop those strengths without a single lecture. I’m also sharing a brand-new resource called The One Hour Budget for Teens, along with a freebie packed with 15 essential financial skills every teen should know, so if you have ever wondered how to raise a teen who is smart with money and not just good at spending it, then this episode is definitely for you!
In This Episode
[0:35] – Jesse and I are discussing talking to kids early about money, building lasting habits.
[3:25] – Teaching kids to earn purchases shows them that money equals effort and thoughtful decisions.
[5:33] – Jesse argues that teens shouldn’t be taught to equate money solely with hours worked.
[6:37] – It’s important to show kids the value of long-term gains by discussing investments and risk vs. reward.
[9:06] – I add that living below your means sets teens up for financial independence and effective budgeting.
[12:41] – Jesse points out that failures are learning opportunities that often teach us more than successes do.
[13:13] – I encourage allowing kids to make financial mistakes because they’ll gain lasting wisdom from the experience.
[16:04] – I warn about online scams and introduce a fun, teen-friendly budgeting guide.
[19:07] – Initiate financial talks with teens via shared activities and honest but non-judgmental conversations.
[22:53] – I argue that excuses only delay progress, so start managing what you have now, even if it’s only $30.
[25:37] – Contentment now is key to lasting financial peace and success.
[28:32] – Removing screen time and ads has helped our son become more motivated to earn.
[30:11] – I have realized that buying more can’t fix deeper issues that only contentment can address.
[33:42] – Go to my store to download The One-Hour Budget for Teens, using the code TEENS at checkout!
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
15 Financial Skills for Teens Freebie
The One-Hour Budget for Teens (Use code TEENS at checkout!)
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
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I am so excited to be joined this week by Rebecca George, author of the book You’re Not Too Late: Trusting God’s Timing in a Hurry-Up World. Listen in as Rebecca and I discuss the struggles that so many of us face when we feel like life is passing us by, talking about the pressures of measuring up to timelines – whether they be about marriage, career, or friendships – and how these expectations can often lead us to doubt ourselves and God’s plan for us.
Rebecca reflects on her personal journey of learning to embrace the waiting seasons of life, and we chat about the powerful truths in her book, especially how longing – whether it be relational or vocational – can really shape us if we choose to trust God in the process.
She also opens up about the importance of community, even when it feels like everyone else has it figured out and you don’t. We talk about the beauty of showing up for others, even in simple, everyday ways, and how those small acts of service can deeply connect us.
If you have ever felt like you are behind or have wondered why your timeline doesn’t match up with others, this conversation is definitely for you! Rebecca’s honesty and her insight are sure to help you shift your perspective on waiting, community, and trusting God’s timing. Remember – you’re not too late!
In This Episode
[0:35] – I introduce the feeling of being behind in life and welcome Rebecca George, author of You’re Not Too Late, to the show!
[1:29] – Rebecca shares how longing for the next season often distracts us from addressing inner emotions.
[4:36] – Rebecca feels that longings in life require turning to Christ for hope during struggles.
[7:05] – Rebecca stresses the importance of community to prevent loneliness and support growth.
[9:42] – Asking for help builds courage, and Rebecca shares a story of having received unexpected support.
[11:28] – I express gratitude for friends who show up without asking, offering help without expecting anything in return.
[13:06] – Stepping out in faith to help others can lead to blessings and growth.
[16:54] – I reflect on learning the difference between hospitality and entertainment, now embracing get-togethers that aren’t necessarily “perfect.”
[18:23] – A perfectly curated home doesn’t reflect Rebecca’s everyday life; she instead values hospitality.
[20:18] – Rebecca shares how personal longings made celebrating others’ milestones difficult.
[22:27] – Rebecca highlights the importance of bringing emotions to God and learning from the process.
[25:08] – Hear Rebecca reflect on the challenges and growth in her marriage while also managing external pressures.
[28:13] – I share how having a prepared response helped me stay confident despite others’ questions.
[31:17] – Rebecca encourages women of all ages to trust God and find hope in life’s struggles.
[34:34] – I discuss holding space for both longing and living, choosing joy despite difficult situations.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Rebecca George
Books
You’re Not Too Late: Trusting God’s Timing in a Hurry-Up World by Rebecca George
Habits of the Household: Practicing the Story of God in Everyday Family Rhythms by Justin Whitmel Earley
Social Media
Rebecca George (@rebeccageorgeauthor)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
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This week, Jesse and I dive into an much-requested topic – my recent experience with getting blood tests done through Function Health.
In this episode, we compare my experience with Function with my experience with InsideTracker. I loved that Function Health didn’t just give me numbers; it actually provided detailed, personalized recommendations, including the top foods and supplements which I should focus on. I also really appreciated the way that they communicated, reminding me of important prep steps like fasting and exercise restrictions before doing my tests.
One of the most interesting parts is definitely the internal age assessment. (Let’s just say that the results made my day!) Beyond that, though, I found myself very impressed by how comprehensive the testing was – two rounds of bloodwork, deeper insights into key health markers, and clear explanations of what my results actually meant (including which areas needed attention ASAP)!
Jesse even found a way to integrate my Function Health results into my InsideTracker app, which gave me a cool side-by-side comparison of my health trends over time.
If you have ever considered a blood testing service (or if you have tried one before and weren’t too sure if it was worth it), then this episode will give you an inside look at my experience. As always, I would really love to hear from you! Have you tried Function Health, InsideTracker, or something similar? Send me an email at crystal@moneysavingmom.com, and let’s compare notes!
In This Episode
[0:35] – I discuss my experience with Function Health‘s blood testing and am comparing it to InsideTracker.
[2:04] – High school baseball games differ from middle school — much longer and apparently with extra innings!
[4:24] – Managing kids at baseball games is challenging, but this year feels easier than last.
[7:57] – Kathrynne and I had a relaxing, bonding trip to Isle of Palms over spring break.
[10:28] – Function Health provided me with extensive health testing, offering a lot of add-on options.
[13:04] – I found the $499 Function test affordable, detailed, and easily scheduled via local labs.
[16:15] – The two rounds of testing help ensure accuracy by accounting for dietary and lifestyle factors.
[18:22] – Function Health provides ongoing health tracking with personalized recommendations.
[20:06] – Function Health’s communication and reminders were better than InsideTracker’s, keeping me well-prepared.
[22:17] – The final results included doctor-reviewed insights, prioritized health concerns, and custom dietary recommendations.
[24:51] – I was somewhat surprised that they so highly recommended magnesium — but it makes sense!
[27:16] – I usually avoid using apps but appreciate Function Health’s communication despite being a newer company.
[30:19] – I find it encouraging that I already limit certain foods, and Jesse and I discuss dietary recommendations.
[33:44] – Function Health testing has grown more popular, although InsideTracker offers a more structured membership.
[36:08] – I explain why I prefer Function Health over InsideTracker.
[38:06] – I question how internal age results are determined, as I note discrepancies in different tests.
[39:32] – Jesse plans to take the test next, and I encourage listeners to prioritize their health.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Function Health
InsideTracker
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
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Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith’s book Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity is a book that has deeply impacted my life. If you’ve followed me online for awhile, you’ve probably heard me talk about it as I’m often thinking about it and recommending it to others. So I was so excited when I got to interview Dr. Saundra and talk about Sacred Rest plus her new book, Being Fully Known: The Joyful Satisfaction of Beholding, Becoming, and Belonging.
Sacred Rest helped me understand that rest is not just about sleep but is also a necessary balance of seven distinct types of rest, each meeting different needs in our lives. Whether it’s social, sensory, or emotional rest, her insights truly shifted how I think about and prioritize rest.
Listen in as she opens up about the vulnerability that shaped both books – how Sacred Rest challenged her to be honest about her struggles and how her new book represents the freedom that she has found from embracing her true self, without the pressure to be perfect.
She shares the powerful idea of being “fully known,” which isn’t just about rest but about getting rid of the labels and fears that keep us from stepping into our true purpose. We also discuss her Abide-Act framework, a practical way to live with intention, whether you are pursuing personal growth and/or professional goals.
As we explore Dr. Saundra’s personal story of transitioning from a successful medical career to embracing this new calling, you’ll be inspired to live authentically and find true rest despite the many demands of life.
In This Episode
[00:36] – I have Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, author of Sacred Rest and Being Fully Known, in the studio today!
[01:36] – Dr. Dalton-Smith explains that rest comes in seven types, not just sleeping or relaxing.
[02:47] – To help identify their rest deficit, people can take her quiz at restquiz.com.
[03:26] – While writing Sacred Rest, Saundra overcame the fear of perfection and embraced authenticity.
[05:43] – After experiencing burnout, Dr. Dalton-Smith transitioned from being a doctor to embracing new opportunities.
[08:55] – We learn that, when facing intimidating opportunities, Dr. Dalton-Smith looks to God for guidance and strength.
[10:58] – Dr. Dalton-Smith created the Abide-Act framework to prevent burnout and stay aligned with goals.
[13:46] – She sets aside evening time to reflect, ensuring her projects align with her values and needs.
[16:11] – We learn that Dr. Dalton-Smith does plan but balances planning with the freedom of being flexible.
[18:51] – The Abide-Act periods often focus on well-being, such as exercising or overcoming comparison-itis.
[24:37] – Dr. Dalton Smith now understands that healing involves embracing past pain, fears, and insecurities.
[27:10] – After transitioning, Saundra embraced freedom, being authentic, and contributing to the bigger picture.
[30:08] – Stepping into the unknown requires trusting God’s faithfulness, empowering others through your actions.
[31:20] – Beholding God reveals personal growth opportunities, like balancing introversion with qualities of both a lamb and lion.
[34:34] – The Hebrew word “Hineni” means saying “yes” to God before knowing the question, requiring trust.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Saundra’s Free Rest Quiz
Books
Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity by Saundra Dalton-Smith
Being Fully Known: The Joyful Satisfaction of Beholding, Becoming, and Belonging by Saundra Dalton-Smith
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
Saundra Dalton-Smith on Instagram (@drdaltonsmith)
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I am so thrilled to have sat down with Meghan Ryan Asbury for this episode, author of the book You Are Not Behind: Building a Life You Love Without Having Everything You Want! This conversation is so close to my heart because it addresses a feeling that we all encounter: the sense of inadequacy that can stem from our lives not aligning with societal expectations or the seemingly perfect lives that we see on social media. Listen as Meghan shares her journey of writing this book during a pivotal time when her own life felt anything but perfect.
Meghan and I discuss the detrimental impact of comparison and how it permeates our thoughts and influences our sense of self-worth. Her insights resonate deeply, especially when she reminds us that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side. We explore the importance of recognizing our unique journeys and the necessity of grieving lost hopes, which can ultimately lead us to greater healing.
Whether you’re in your twenties, thirties, forties, or beyond, this episode offers wisdom for anyone feeling behind in life. Meghan encourages us to embrace our current season, invest in community, and cultivate gratitude amidst the chaos! If you are tired of feeling like you aren’t measuring up or if you’re seeking a renewed perspective on your journey, then this conversation is definitely for you! I so appreciate Meghan’s vulnerability and honesty in this book and believe that you will as well, so be sure to grab a copy!
In This Episode
[0:35] – I am talking today with Meghan Ryan Asbury, author of the book You Are Not Behind.
[1:51] – Meghan’s book journey began by questioning why people feel behind despite societal expectations.
[4:28] – I reflect on my chaotic life with gratitude and realize that the book is relevant for all ages.
[6:42] – Comparison, worsened by social media, is a root cause of feeling behind.
[9:46] – Hear how Meghan’s relationship with God evolved, challenging her belief that obedience guarantees happiness.
[11:50] – Meghan accepts that the Bible defines good as singleness, suffering, and poverty, not the American Dream.
[13:16] – Coping mechanisms for happiness only work temporarily.
[16:41] – It’s so important to allow yourself to grieve so that you can heal.
[19:37] – Meghan holds both pain and hope together, trusting God’s promises despite feeling disappointed.
[22:28] – Meghan finds hope in God’s promise to make all things new and comfort her pain.
[25:31] – Community, argues Meghan, helps combat feelings of being behind by fostering connection and healing.
[27:21] – Vulnerability and effort lead to meaningful connections, even in different life seasons.
[29:37] – Meghan trusts that God will provide and rejects a scarcity mindset when comparing to others.
[32:42] – Meghan reflects on past choices, trusting God’s faithfulness while living fully and hoping for the future.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
You Are Not Behind: Building a Life You Love Without Having Everything You Want by Meghan Ryan Asbury
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 278. When You Feel Like You’re the Only One Who’s Behind (Meghan Ryan Asbury) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
This week, Jesse and I bring you a mix of newsy updates, a now-funny story about a freezer disaster, and intriguing tidbits that spark some lively discussions! We reflect on Jesse’s recent 44th birthday, diving into how the world has changed since he was born at just 27 weeks. The advancements in technology are astounding!
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We also explore the topic of re-using birthday candles, inspired by a recent Instagram post I share that invoked a plethora of comments and opinions. This light-hearted conversation spirals into a discussion about frugality and the limits some of us draw in our quest to save money. I invite you to write in with your own thoughts because I am curious: are there things that you would never do just to save a buck? I’ll share my own, and I would love to hear yours!
We also have some updates from our InsideTracker experience, including a tip about vitamin D for Jesse and how I’m upping my iron. I share my excitement about a highly-anticipated book I just picked up from the library – Kristin Hannah’s novel The Women. I also provide some updates on my thoughts on Hannah Brencher’s The Unplugged Hours, which I mentioned last episode. As always, we’d love to hear your thoughts an input after you listen!
In This Episode
[0:35] – It’s time for a hodge-podge episode filled with all sorts of fun perspectives and stories.
[1:53] – Do you reuse birthday candles? A question inspired by a meme I shared on Instagram.
[3:57] – After having glued a birthday candle back together, I reflect on when frugality goes too far.
[6:13] – Are there people who enjoy spending money?
[9:24] – Jesse’s premature birth story.
[11:29] – Jesse was in the NICU for a couple of months. We talk about how being premature impacted him for years to come.
[15:47] – A listener suggests that Jesse take vitamin K2 with vitamin D.
[17:42] – My favorite protocol for increasing iron.
[19:28] – Hear about how, excited about a tax refund, Jesse and I once bought meat from a local farm.
[22:46] – Our freezer stopped, resulting in spoiled meat upon our return from a trip!
[24:52] – We had to refreeze everything, which worsened the smell, and eventually gave the freezer away.
[26:29] – I recently got The Women by Kristin Hannah from the library and am excited to read it!
[27:49] – The Unplugged Hours by Hannah Brencher challenges readers to stay unplugged for 1,000 hours a year.
[29:44] – I often feel distracted by political news, and The Unplugged Hours has inspired me to limit my phone usage habits.
[32:37] – My goal includes unplugged time throughout the day.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
InsideTracker
Instagram Post About Birthday Candles
Instagram Post of Newborn Jesse
Instagram Reel with Hannah Brencher
Books
The Women: A Novel by Kristin Hannah
The Unplugged Hours: Cultivating a Life of Presence in a Digitally Connected World by Hannah Brencher
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 277. Our freezer disaster, upping my iron, and Jesse’s 44th birthday appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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As we teased last week, Jesse and I discuss our latest experience with InsideTracker! I mentioned this on Instagram a few weeks ago when I got my bloodwork done and many people had questions on how it works and what we’ve learned from it.
In this podcast, we talk about why we did the blood tests twice, what we’ve learned from it each time, and how we’ve changed our lives and habits as a result of each blood test. We discuss the surprising insights and actionable advice we received, from dietary adjustments to lifestyle changes, and how these recommendations have shaped our daily routines!
This is a really fun episode where Jesse and I share lots of personal stories and insights, give each other a hard time for our quirks, and share about some fascinating books that we have been reading including Through the Eyes of a Lion by Levi Lusko and The Warrior Poet Way by John Lovell.
In This Episode
[0:35] – Jesse and I are talking all about our experiences with InsideTracker this week!
[1:32] – I recommend reading Through the Eyes of a Lion, a powerful book by Levi Lusko.
[4:09] – Hear me tease Jesse about his phone usage and joke about his age!
[6:53] – Jesse shares how The Warrior Poet Way by John Lovell offers lessons on fatherhood and leadership.
[9:15] – Jesse emphasizes the importance of preparation, sharing insights from the Navy SEAL book The Pledge to America.
[11:46] – We move into discussing InsideTracker, with Jesse explaining that it’s a tool for tracking health metrics and optimizing personal wellness plans.
[12:59] – Hear how InsideTracker offers various testing options, including a full panel and home kits.
[14:42] – I discuss the affordability of health tests compared to holistic doctor visits and highlight my own cortisol findings.
[17:53] – After discovering elevated cortisol levels, I made some lifestyle changes such as more outdoor time and better sleep.
[20:04] – I have overall improved my sleep habits and diet, focusing on reducing stress and feeling better overall.
[22:14] – I recount retaking the test a year later to compare progress and track health improvements.
[23:12] – Jesse describes how InsideTracker’s optimized range helps him identify areas to work on beyond normal results.
[24:07] – I highlight the app’s daily recommendations like olive oil, high-intensity workouts, and sunshine.
[27:47] – Hear how the test revealed my anemia, leading to dietary recommendations focused on iron and sleep.
[29:41] – I commit to eating red meat daily, acknowledging its effectiveness in working against my anemia.
[31:29] – I discuss dairy and bean intake suggestions from my results and invite feedback from listeners on similar programs!
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
InsideTracker
Books
Through the Eyes of a Lion: Facing Impossible Pain, Finding Incredible Power by Levi Lusko
The Unplugged Hours: Cultivating a Life of Presence in a Digitally Connected World by Hannah Brencher
The Pledge to America: One Man’s Journey from Political Prisoner to U.S. Navy SEAL by Drago Dzieran
The Warrior Poet Way: A Guide to Living Free and Dying Well by John Lovell
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 276. Our honest experience with Inside Tracker Blood Tests and what we’ve learned and changed from it appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Welcome back! Listen in this week for a crazy story as Jesse and I take you behind the scenes of our recent adventure-packed week! We have been to a staggering SEVEN states in just NINE days, and I am so excited to share the chaos and joy that followed!
From attending the CrossFit Games to exploring NYC, we have certainly had our fair share of logistical challenges and unforgettable moments, and we start by discussing the CrossFit Games, where our daughter’s boyfriend RJ competed. It was a thrilling experience, and you will hear all about the highs and lows of cheering him on through a grueling series of events!
I also recount the heartwarming and sometimes nerve-wracking moments of traveling with our kids, including their interactions with family and the surprising ease with which our youngest adapted to being away from home! After our CrossFit adventure, I also had the chance to jet off to New York City for a brief but magical trip. From Central Park’s beauty to the glamor of Fifth Avenue, I take you through the highlights of my NYC excursion and how it felt to step into a world so different from our usual routine!
You will also definitely want to stay tuned until the very end of the episode for a sneak peek at our next episode in which we will be diving into the results of our recent InsideTracker blood test and explore some new breakfast ideas that we have been loving!
In This Episode
[0:35] – Jesse and I are recounting a busy week traveling to seven states, visiting CrossFit Games with our daughter Kaitlynn’s boyfriend, RJ!
[3:54] – RJ is a skilled CrossFit athlete who reached the games by excelling through various competition stages.
[5:47] – To attend the CrossFit games, we arranged complex travel plans, splitting family members across different flights and destinations.
[7:08] – Hear how returning home involved challenges and uncertainties, but we managed to find good deals and made it work!
[9:24] – Leaving our younger children behind was hard, but we had a great time, and the kids adjusted well with grandparents’ care.
[12:01] – Despite being small, David handled the plane well, enjoying interactions with other passengers and having fun with beach balls at the event!
[14:01] – I discuss how the CrossFit staff was supportive and accommodating towards David.
[17:47] – Jesse and I explain CrossFit for those unfamiliar with it.
[20:09] – I really enjoyed seeing RJ’s different sides, particularly his ability to compete while unwell and his interactions with our family.
[21:19] – Jesse shares how we enjoyed their time with RJ’s family and how the kids interacted like siblings.
[22:40] – The competition brought together diverse nationalities, with 29 countries represented.
[24:18] – I was moved by the athletes’ live streams and their supporters back home.
[27:12] – After picking up the kids, I drove back and then flew to New York for a friend’s award ceremony, enjoying LaGuardia’s unique atmosphere.
[30:55] – Hear how, in New York City, I was amazed by Central Park’s size and the vibrant local activity.
[33:14] – I enjoyed a picturesque lunch at a famous boathouse in Central Park and felt that the experience was worth the high cost.
[35:39] – While walking down Fifth Avenue, I admired the upscale stores and wondered about the clientele who shop there regularly.
[37:36] – I stayed at a luxurious hotel in Times Square, feeling out of place among the well-dressed guests.
[39:20] – The next episode will cover our Insidetracker blood test results and introduce a free breakfast ideas guide!
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
CrossFit Games
InsideTracker
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 275. Our big trip to Kalamazoo, MI & my trip to NYC! appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Join me for this episode of the show as I sit down with the incredible Alyssa Joy Bethke, who is here to bless us all with some deep, soul-refreshing wisdom. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or just plain tired of the daily grind, Alyssa’s insights might be exactly what you need to hear!
We take some time diving into her new book, When Doing It All Is Undoing You: Meeting God in Your Unmet Expectations, which couldn’t have come at a better time for so many of us.
Alyssa shares her journey of dealing with the pressures of life, from managing a family of five and the ups and downs of ministry to handling a massive move from the dreamy shores of Maui to Tennessee.
What really stands out, however, is her vulnerability about the moment that she realized that she was coming undone, leading her to embrace a season of self-care and soul care – truly a powerful reminder that we don’t have to do it all and that we sometimes need to step back, acknowledge our feelings, and tend to our hearts.
Alyssa and I also explore her practical tips for processing emotions using the three Ns: Notice, Name, and Navigate, which Alyssa learned from her friend, trauma therapist Tristan Collins. Alyssa’s approach is both grounding and freeing, reminding us that it’s okay to slow down and listen to what our bodies are telling us.
Tune in to discover how to find true refreshment for your soul and why it’s so important to let go of the illusion of control. This conversation is one you won’t want to miss, especially if you’re ready to step into a season of deep, transformative rest. Be sure to also grab yourself a copy of Alyssa’s new book!
In This Episode
[0:35] – I have Alyssa Joy Bethke on the show today, author of the new book When Doing It All Is Undoing You!
[2:10] – Hear some background information about Alyssa.
[5:29] – Alyssa’s husband went viral on YouTube, leading to a ministry career focused on spoken word.
[6:10] – During COVID, Alyssa’s husband connected with John Tyson, a brilliant pastor in New York, and they began organizing men’s retreats in Texas.
[9:13] – After moving, Alyssa experienced burnout while managing family life and homeschooling.
[11:20] – Alyssa faced struggles with homeschooling, leading her to seek guidance and focus on self-care.
[14:33] – Self-care involves soul care and self-awareness, not just superficial activities.
[17:26] – Alyssa reflects on the importance of lamenting, grieving, and moving through life’s disappointments.
[19:58] – Learn about a framework for self-awareness, emphasizing the connection between body, mind, and spirit.
[22:33] – Notice, name and navigate what you’re feeling!
[23:45] – Chip Dodd’s The Voice of the Heart explains that anxiety masks underlying fears and that naming these fears can break the cycle of anxiety.
[25:43] – Alyssa asserts that fears often focus on the future, but God’s love is constant.
[28:01] – Many Christians mistakenly believe that following God should lead to a comfortable life free of grief or pain.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
When Doing It All Is Undoing You: Meeting God in Your Unmet Expectations by Alyssa Joy Bethke
Satisfied: Finding Hope, Joy, and Contentment Right Where You Are by Alyssa Joy Bethke
The Voice of the Heart: A Call to Full Living by Chip Dodd
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 274. When Doing It All Is Undoing You (with Alyssa Bethke) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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If you are gearing up for school to start (or just ready to begin some new rhythms in the fall), this week’s episode is all about how to set yourself up for a successful school year. We share four strategies that have worked so well for us over the years and get very practical on how to make them happen.
The first strategy is one that not everyone will agree with, but when it comes to a smoother school year, this has made such a difference for us!! What is that strategy? It’s teaching our kids to take ownership of their responsibilities — especially when it comes to things related to school. We talk about how we’ve made this happen and how it’s worked for different kids with different personalities. We also talk about how we are encouraging this even with David, who has significant cognitive delays and disabilities.
We then move on to sharing about how setting up our days well the evening before and the morning of, can impact our entire day — and week! Simple things like prepping the night before by laying out clothes, packing lunches, getting everything we need for the morning set out, and going to bed earlier make the mornings so much more calm and organized, which leads to a better day for everyone!
I also revisit the idea of slow productivity, which is all about intentionally slowing down, evaluating what truly needs to be done, and finding ways to simplify. By reducing the chaos and clutter in our schedules, we can make room for what truly matters and create a school year filled with intention and cherished memories! Whether you have school-age kids or not, I hope the advice and ideas in this episode give you inspiration and food for thought.
In This Episode
[0:35] – This episode is all about strategies to set yourself up for a successful fall.
[2:31] – Listening to audiobooks during morning commutes has become a new family routine, and we have been enjoying Destiny of the Republic.
[7:11] – I’m also reading You Are Not Behind which explores finding contentment despite unmet expectations.
[10:22] – Our recent decluttering and re-organizing projects.
[15:57] – Why and how we have our kids fully in charge of their homework and school-related things.
[17:34] – It’s important to teach responsibility to children, by encouraging small tasks and praising their efforts.
[22:41] – One way we’ve gradually taught kids to handle tasks independently.
[26:20] – A successful morning for us starts the night before.
[28:32] – I start the day with quiet time, avoiding electronics and engaging in a morning routine that sets my day up for success.
[30:20] – How to practice slow productivity by simplifying schedules, delegating tasks, and reducing pressure for constant productivity.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine, and the Murder of a President by Candice Millard
You Are Not Behind: Building a Life You Love Without Having Everything You Want by Meghan Ryan Asbury
Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout by Cal Newport
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 273. 4 Strategies to Start Your Back-to-School Year Well appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Jesse and I are touching upon something a bit political this week, but fear not (that is, in fact, the point of this episode!) because it’s not in the way that you might be thinking. We are not discussing who we’re voting for or who you should vote for, but why we need to rise above all of the fear-mongering and quietly “rebel” in the way we live our lives.
As Jesse points out, fear sells. It’s nothing new. It’s a classic marketing tactic. But with the development and advancement of technology like AI, it is easier than ever to create things like “screenshots” of social media posts that aren’t real and share them on social media, with many people accepting them as true without fact-checking. Fake tweets, doctored photos, and misleading statements are just a few examples of how fear is being manufactured to stir up emotions and incite reactions.
Listen in as we explore how political campaigns and media often exploit fear to sway public opinion, making us feel like we’re in a constant state of crisis. Jesse and I discuss the implications of living in a fear-driven culture and how and why it’s important to rebel against the fear through educating ourselves, questioning what we’re fed, setting boundaries on our media consumption, and ultimately looking to the Lord.
We challenge you to reflect on how fear might be influencing your decisions and interactions. Are you letting it dictate your actions or steal your joy? Let’s talk about quietly rebelling against this fear narrative by choosing hope, living fully in the present, and fostering meaningful conversations!
In This Episode[0:35] – Jesse and I are discussing politically charged fear-mongering today!
[2:28] – I describe our annual Bull Shoals Lake vacation in Arkansas, a long-standing tradition with our family.
[4:28] – Our trip wasn’t at all what we’d envisioned, but it turned out to be a really memorable time.
[7:20] – I share how I enjoyed an unexpected benefit of going to bed early during the vacation and feeling so rested!
[9:38] – I am currently reading Slow Productivity by Cal Newport.
[14:08] – We talk about our enjoyment of a high-tech bird feeder with live camera feed and snapshots.
[17:52] – In response to a question from a listener, we talk more about the collagen protein powder we love.
[21:19] – We move into discussing rebelling against the narrative of fear.
[24:51] – Jesse reflects on fear-based politics throughout history and how social media amplifies such tactics, emphasizing that fear is often exaggerated.
[26:43] – Don’t make decisions based upon fear.
[29:03] – Jesse argues that a powerful antidote to fear is education.
[29:37] – It might be a good idea to take breaks from media consumption to avoid letting fear and anxiety take over.
[31:14] – An Instagram post of mine encourages living fully in the present, rejecting fear, and trusting in hope and faith over political fear.
[34:03] – I reflect on anger as a reaction to fear and encourage us all to take a step back from heated online arguments.
Links & ResourcesCrystal Paine
The Crystal Paine Show – 27. Digital Minimalism (with Cal Newport)
The Crystal Paine Show – 108. How to Love Someone You Disagree With
FeatherSnap
Books
Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout by Cal Newport
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 272. Quietly Rebelling Against the Narrative of Fear appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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I am so thrilled to welcome Natalie Runion back in the studio for today’s episode. If you remember my last conversation with her, then you likely remember how it left me deeply moved and inspired, and this time is no different. Natalie joins me to discuss her new book The House That Jesus Built: Leading Our Churches Back to God’s Original Blueprint, and I’m excited to get to learn from her again.
Natalie’s latest work picks up where her previous book Raised to Stay leaves off, with this new book addressing the reconstruction of faith, focusing on rebuilding a church that’s true to its biblical roots. Natalie shares how the journey of deconstructing faith doesn’t have to mean discarding it but can instead lead to a more authentic and healthy church environment.
Join us we explore what makes a church truly healthy, with Natalie emphasizing that it’s not about the size or programs but the genuine presence of the Holy Spirit. We discuss practical markers of a thriving church community, including how to handle conflict biblically and the importance of having genuine leaders.
We also touch on the concept of finding ministry opportunities right in our everyday lives and how even the smallest acts of kindness can be significant. Natalie challenges us to rethink what it means to serve and engage with our church community, urging us to be a source of support and encouragement rather than simply seeking it.
I hope that you will listen in for this insightful conversation that promises to be both thought-provoking and encouraging. You might just find yourself inspired to look at your own church community in a new light, so don’t miss it! Be sure to also read Raised to Stay if you haven’t already and pre-order The House That Jesus Built!
In This Episode
[0:35] – I welcome Natalie Runion back to the show!
[1:57] – Raised to Stay tackles faith deconstruction, emphasizing rebuilding rather than discarding.
[4:00] – Church, Natalie argues, is a community of broken people with shared faith; focusing on biblical purposes can manage expectations and foster connections.
[6:13] – A healthy church focuses on repentance, worship, and outreach, with the presence of the Holy Spirit as the true measure of health.
[8:20] – True church leadership requires shepherds called to protect and guide, avoiding celebrity culture.
[11:02] – Large churches can thrive when multiple shepherds, mentored by the lead pastor, actively care for the congregation.
[13:23] – Natalie points out that addressing abuse in the church requires discernment, although leaving may be necessary if it’s unsafe to speak up.
[15:31] – Ministry opportunities are often found in everyday actions, like helping neighbors, rather than on grand stages.
[17:13] – True ministry focuses on seeking the Holy Spirit’s presence, even in ordinary settings, rather than pursuing platforms.
[19:15] – Ministry also often means stepping outside our comfort zones, like humbling ourselves or prioritizing church attendance despite obstacles.
[21:37] – Natalie feels that shifting focus from what we receive at church to how we can help others makes attending church worthwhile.
[24:06] – Simply being present and showing kindness in church can be as valuable as active participation.
[28:17] – Hear how Natalie’s father supported her and prioritized her spiritual needs, influencing her approach to raising spiritually curious and honest children.
[31:03] – Natalie discusses parenting challenges and describes her strategy of engaging her 11-year-old in church through serving.
[33:01] – Natalie is raising her daughters to be Christ followers and not just churchgoers.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
The Crystal Paine Show – 215. Hope and Healing from Church Hurt & Disappointment
Natalie Runion
Books
Raised to Stay: Persevering in Ministry When You Have a Million Reasons to Walk Away by Natalie Runion
The House That Jesus Built: Leading Our Churches Back to God’s Original Blueprint by Natalie Runion
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 271. Healthy Churches, Healthy Leaders: Restoring God’s Original Blueprint for Local Churches (with Natalie Runion) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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This episode is a little departure from our normal, but after I accidentally found myself in hot water over something I posted on Instagram, I thought it might be better to do a podcast episode to share what I learned and how I changed my views as a result of the unexpected debate.
S0 buckle up as Jesse and I dive into conspiracy theories today! You may not see eye-to-eye with me or Jesse (we both have different opinions), but I hope this conversation causes you to think and learn… or at least get a laugh at how much I didn’t know!
The controversy erupted from my Instagram stories after watching the new film, Fly Me to the Moon. Jesse and I discuss the importance of questioning narratives without necessarily being a conspiracy theorist and the healthy skepticism that can lead to personal growth.
We also, on a lighter note, reflect on recent travel misadventures, including a series of flight delays and unexpected challenges Silas and I had during a trip to Florida. And Jesse recounts his recent trip, highlighting dining at Michie Tavern, and David’s newfound skill of escaping his playpen! We also discuss parenting challenges and the humorous moments we’ve encountered with our kids, like Micah’s evolving vocabulary and David’s curiosity about our jacuzzi!
Throughout the episode, I invite listeners to explore different perspectives and encourage open, respectful dialogue, even when opinions diverge. So join us for a (hopefully!) thought-provoking conversation filled with laughter, reflection, and a bit of healthy dialogue.
In This Episode
[0:35] – Tune in as we discuss a controversial topic and share some travel stories!
[2:13] – Jesse went to Virginia for a baseball camp with Silas and David, and they had a great time!
[4:55] – Silas stayed in dorms, experienced college life, and enjoyed rustic dining at Michie Tavern.
[5:41] – David learned to climb out of his playpen and had fun doing so in the hotel!
[6:31] – We share how when David returned home, he tried to climb into the Jacuzzi, so we had to remove the knobs.
[8:58] – Micah is narrating his life now, but it’s challenging to understand his new words.
[9:59] – While Jesse was away, I took the girls and friends to see Fly Me to the Moon.
[12:03] – The movie, inspired by Marketing the Moon, took creative liberties and depicted fictional events.
[14:41] – I learned from my childhood to question things and not blindly believe everything I am told.
[17:02] – Some questions I had about the original moon landing that sparked a firestorm of controversy on Instagram.
[19:50] – Jesse discusses how NASA technology, developed for space, improved quality for consumer America, including television.
[20:51] – Hear how research has since changed my perspective.
[23:26] – I believe it’s healthy to question things and seek information from multiple perspectives.
[27:39] – I express gratitude for those who corrected my misinformation and encouraged open discussions with evidence.
[28:52] – Engaging in debates with different viewpoints sharpens your thinking and broadens your perspective, Jesse points out.
[31:40] – I share how Silas and I recently experienced travel mishaps but ultimately had a successful trip to Florida.
[34:07] – We experienced flight delays due to a bird strike and bathroom emergencies on the plane.
[37:23] – Despite travel delays, I made it to dinner on time and enjoyed the unexpected adventure.
[39:45] – Jesse and I embrace differing viewpoints in our family, which leads to interesting and valuable discussions!
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Films
Fly Me to the Moon
Books
Marketing the Moon: The Selling of the Apollo Lunar Program by David Meerman Scott & Richard Jurek
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 270. Conspiracy Theories and a crazy travel story! appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Today’s topic is one that has come highly requested: an honest review of my experience wearing an Oura Ring. I have been wearing mine since February, and it’s impacted me much more than I ever imagined!
If you’re curious about what an Oura Ring is, think of it as a high-tech Fitbit but in ring form, tracking everything from your sleep patterns, to your activity, to your heart rate, to your overall health and recovery scores. In this conversation, I share how I’ve been so surprised with how many changes I’ve made in my life as a result of the data I’ve learned from it: from going to bed earlier to balancing intense workouts with gentle movement to my nighttime routine (and more!) the Oura Ring has been a game-changer. If you’re looking for a comprehensive health tracker, this might just be it!
Also in this episode, I also talk about a new website I recently discovered, a book I’m reading, share some listener feedback, talk about a documentary we’re watching that really unsettled me, and tell you about our recent ABC date night. (It was the letter I and we ate Indian food and watched The Imitation Game, a film that left us deep in thought and caused us to have some good conversations.)
In This Episode
[1:20] – Jesse and I are discussing the life-changing impact of my Oura Ring!
[3:15] – Listener Sarah shared about discovering s’mores-flavored Quest bars from Walmart.
[5:36] – Another listener, Elizabeth, appreciates audiobook recommendations and suggests books by William Kent Krueger such as This Tender Land.
[6:33] – I have been reading Liturgy of the Ordinary, which explores everyday life as liturgy.
[10:48] – Learn about Martie, an online discount food store that is especially good for those with dietary restrictions.
[12:18] – Jesse and I recently watched The Imitation Game, a complex and haunting film about wartime decisions.
[14:28] – Watching a Cold War documentary revealed new, unsettling information about atomic bomb testing and consequences.
[19:20] – I share how my Oura Ring tracks sleep data accurately, influencing my bedtime routines and overall health.
[23:58] – The Oura Ring also monitors recovery and this has helped me make healthier choices in my every day life.
[26:28] – Prioritizing gentle movement and intense workouts boosts my energy and improves my sleep and recovery.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Oura Ring
Quest Protein Bars Bundle with Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and S’mores Flavors
Martie
Books
William Kent Krueger (Amazon author page)
This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger
Liturgy of the Ordinary: Sacred Practices in Everyday Life by Tish Harrison Warren
Films
The Imitation Game
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 269. My honest experience with wearing an Oura ring appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Welcome back to the show, everyone! I am so thrilled to welcome Davey Blackburn to the show this week! Davey is the author of Nothing Is Wasted: A True Story of Hope, Forgiveness, and Finding Purpose in Pain, and he joins me in the studio to discuss his journey.
Davey’s journey began tragically in 2015 when he lost his wife Amanda and their unborn child to a senseless act of violence, and he offers a raw exploration of grief, forgiveness, and navigating life’s unexpected turns. He candidly discusses his initial rage and the complexities of forgiveness – both of others and himself, taking us through the challenges of rebuilding amidst deep loss, including the unexpected closure of the church he and Amanda founded. Through it all, Davey’s faith remains a guiding light, revealing God’s presence even in the darkest moments.
Davey and I have a conversation about his profound journey towards empathy for those who caused him unimaginable pain, exploring how understanding their stories transformed his perspective on grace and redemption. His insights are a powerful reminder of God’s ability to bring beauty from ashes, reshaping our understanding of suffering and resilience!
I hope that you will join me as Davey opens up about his ministry, Nothing Is Wasted, offering hope and practical guidance for anyone navigating their own pain. I so appreciate his willingness to be so open and vulnerable, and whether you’re grappling with loss, betrayal, or trauma, this episode promises to inspire and encourage you to find purpose in your own journey!
In This Episode
[0:35] – Today, I am interviewing Davey Blackburn, author of Nothing Is Wasted!
[1:08] – Davey, based in Indianapolis, leads Nothing Is Wasted Ministries, aiding those in trauma.
[4:44] – I commend Davey for honestly depicting his rage and struggle with forgiveness
[5:51] – Davey reflects on forgiveness, citing his personal journey and faith in Jesus.
[8:17] – Davey shares his journey of faith and forgiveness after his wife’s tragic murder.
[11:43] – I praise Davey’s compassion toward others, shaped by his understanding of trauma.
[12:45] – Listen as Davey reflects on overcoming biases and finding empathy for those involved in his wife’s murder.
[15:22] – Hearing and understanding others’ stories has helped Davey learn compassion and empathy.
[17:25] – Davey describes forgiving Amanda’s killers and their emotional courtroom interactions.
[21:01] – Davey sheds light on how forgiveness impacted a courtroom encounter, restoring hope and faith.
[23:49] – Davey emphasizes the importance of deep grief and leaning into faith during hardships.
[26:25] – Hear how faith in Jesus brings restoration among life’s challenges.
[29:27] – Davey comments on grappling with life’s paradoxes and finding strength in faith.
[32:35] – We learn about the mission of Nothing Is Wasted and where they can be found online.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Nothing Is Wasted
Books
Nothing Is Wasted: A True Story of Hope, Forgiveness, and Finding Purpose in Pain by Davey Blackburn
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 268. Finding Hope and Forgiveness After Horrific Pain (with Davey Blackburn) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Jesse and I are sharing some fun and newsy summer updates, a baking experiment that is all the rage on Instagram, + some engaging documentaries we’ve watched recently.
We don’t watch much in the way of shows during the school year, but we usually watch more TV, movies, and shows in the summer. Recently, we watched a pretty mind-blowing story about identical twins accidentally switched at birth, the gripping and scandalous tale behind Ashley Madison, and the behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to be a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader! Each of these documentaries has brought something unique to the table, from heartwarming to downright shocking and we share our honest reactions on this episode.
Jesse and I also chat about a trending ingredient in for baking on Instagram: cottage cheese! I share about my experiment involving cottage cheese muffins that, despite their promise, left quite a lot to be desired.
I also share a few messages from listeners and we discover that I’ve been butchering the name of one of my favorite authors for quite some time, and thanks to a helpful listener, I’ve learned how to say Ruta Sepetys’ name correctly (it rhymes with spaghettis)!
On a bit of a more practical note, we share how we’re bringing back a tried-and-true summer strategy for managing household chores: morning lists for the kids! It’s a simple but effective way to keep things running smoothly around here and free up more time for summer fun. I share how this little routine change has made such a difference in our days.
In This Episode
[0:35] – We are discussing a whole gamut of things today, including a baking trend and documentaries we have enjoyed lately.
[1:52] – Cottage cheese is now widely used in ice cream and various baked goods for healthier options.
[4:11] – The cottage cheese muffins I made tasted unpleasantly sour and spongy, despite extra maple syrup.
[10:34] – I recently learned that I have been mispronouncing Ruta Sepetys’ name!
[15:42] – Jennifer Pepito’s book Habits for a Sacred Home has inspired me to improve order and discipline.
[17:18] – The Accidental Twins documents the fascinating story of two sets of Colombian twins mixed up at birth.
[20:14] – The Ashley Madison documentary, covering infidelity and its impact on families, was a shocking and unsettling watch.
[22:36] – Ashley Madison boosted their customer base through negative publicity + the shocking revelation on the documentary that many “women” on the site were actually bots.
[27:01] – Jesse and I discuss how the documentary includes diverse perspectives, from a widow’s forgiveness journey to insights on sin and consequences.
[28:14] – I’m currently watching AMERICA’S SWEETHEARTS with Kaitlynn, which explores the intense process of making the Dallas Cowboys cheerleader team.
[30:42] – How creating morning lists for the kids has helped our home run smoother.
[33:40] – I am offering a free download of 100 frugal fun activities for summer, available as a printable list or cut-out strips for a jar!
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
100 Frugal Summer Activities (freebie)
Books
Ruta Sepetys (author page)
Habits for a Sacred Home: 9 Practices from History to Anchor and Restore Modern Families by Jennifer Pepito
Documentaries (All on Netflix)
The Accidental Twins
Ashley Madison documentary
AMERICA’S SWEETHEARTS: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 267. Newsy Summer Updates + 3 Shows We’ve Watched Recently appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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This week’s episode dives into a topic that many of you have asked about – dating, especially as it relates to our kids. Jesse and I previously shared our general dating guidelines, but as some of our children have grown and started engaging in relationships, we have really had to put those principles into practice in real-time.
I recently touched on our approach to dating on Instagram, and it sparked some lively (and controversial) conversations, so join Jesse and I today as we dive even deeper into our experiences and how we have adjusted our guidance while respecting our kids’ privacy and autonomy.
Jesse and I share our philosophy that dating should be intentional and mindful, and we have encouraged our kids to view dating as a way to get to know someone with the potential for a serious, long-term relationship, rather than just a casual activity. We discuss how we’ve balanced setting boundaries without being overly controlling, allowing our kids to make their own decisions while we support them through their journeys, having found that this approach not only respects their autonomy but also helps them develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships.
We also touch upon the critical role of observing a potential partner’s character over time and in various situations. Seeing how someone reacts in different scenarios, such as in competitive sports or when things don’t go their way, can reveal a lot about their true nature, and this can be very important for making informed decisions about whether to pursue a deeper relationship.
Be sure to also tune in to hear some quick personal updates, such as Father’s Day having been a bit of a rollercoaster, as we spent it in Mississippi for Silas’s baseball tournament! I also share some interesting tidbits from our recent Olympic trials binge-watching and the amusing challenge of setting up our new coffee maker without reading the instructions! Don’t forget to also check out a new freebie on our site with 60 quick meal ideas to avoid takeout – perfect for busy families!
In This Episode
[0:35] – Jesse and I are further discussing how we approach dating with our kids.
[2:13] – Hear all about Jesse’s exciting Father’s Day!
[5:34] – I discuss an emergency with a feeding tube button for David, noting the mismatch in our emergency kit.
[6:11] – Jesse clarifies that we had different-sized feeding tube buttons, leading to complications with the emergency replacement.
[8:44] – I express gratitude for a nurse’s help so that we could avoid an emergency room stay.
[11:08] – I further reflect on a chaotic Father’s Day, including spilled drinks, unruly kids, and a new coffee maker gift.
[13:26] – We have enjoyed watching the Olympic trials with our daughter Kierstyn, who is excited about various sports, especially gymnastics.
[15:19] – Hear some listener feedback which includes a request for the audiobook library link.
[16:52] – I share a listener’s observation about the use of “sofa” versus “couch” in an earlier episode, noting it as an interesting regional preference.
[19:28] – I have been reading and loving Natalie Runion’s book The House That Jesus Built.
[21:08] – Tune in for an exciting announcement about a freebie with 60 quick meal ideas to replace takeout!
[22:37] – Shifting gears toward today’s main topic, we begin to discuss our views on teen dating, advocating for encouraging serious relationships and eventual marriage.
[24:19] – It’s important to start conversations about boundaries, respect for bodies and for others, and marriage early to guide children through dating as they grow older.
[27:20] – I further explain our position toward dating ultimately for marriage.
[31:00] – Jesse reflects on our daughters appreciating the intentional approach to dating with marriage in mind.
[33:31] – It’s crucial to observe potential partners in various contexts to gauge their true character before committing to a relationship.
[35:10] – The other biggest thing is praying daily for our children’s relationships, seeking God’s guidance for clear direction.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
The Crystal Paine Show – 137. Dating vs. Courtship: Our honest thoughts
The Crystal Paine Show – 215. Hope and Healing from Church Hurt & Disappointment
Everyday Reading: How to Get Free Out-Of-State Library Cards
Books
The House That Jesus Built: Leading Our Churches Back to God’s Original Blueprint by Natalie Runion
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 266. Why We Encourage Our Kids to Wait to Date appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Welcome back to another episode of the show, lovely listeners, recorded at the latest hour yet – 10:12 p.m.! We are squeezing this in before our family trip to Missouri to pick up Silas from camp, followed by his big baseball tournament in Mississippi, and Jesse has been getting up at 6:00 a.m. to hit the CrossFit gym again, which has been a fantastic start to his days, although it certainly makes 10:12 p.m. feel like midnight!
In last week’s episode, Jesse and I discussed our ambitions for the summer, and I am thrilled to share this week that my progress has been great, especially with tracking everything on the Strides app! For the first time, my goal of spending 1,000 hours outside this year is in the green, with summer making it much easier to be outdoors.
I am also on track with my reading goal. Aiming to finish fifty books by the end of the summer, I have already finished almost ten, and it’s only June! (Plus, my annual goal is seventy-five, so I am ahead of schedule!)
Jesse and I also discuss how our slowed-down summer theme has allowed us more family movie nights. We watched The Boys in the Boat, a beautifully crafted film based on true events, and The Challenger: The Final Flight, a riveting documentary on Netflix about the 1986 Challenger disaster. This documentary hit close to home, as I vaguely remember the tragedy from my childhood.
That’s not all, though! I also discuss something that resonated with me this summer – whether our routines and goals serve us or enslave us. For example, running 100 miles this summer has been a positive challenge for me. It’s a time for prayer, thinking, and even playing brain games like Connections from The New York Times while I run. It’s been beneficial rather than burdensome as it might be for some others.
I encourage you to consider if your daily habits are serving you or holding you back, and we hope that you enjoy this shorter, more reflective episode and find a bit of inspiration in your own routines!
In This Episode
[0:36] – This is the latest that we’ve ever recorded an episode – 10:12 p.m.!
[1:44] – Jesse’s morning routine of starting with a cold shower and workout significantly impacts his day.
[2:41] – I have noticed that Jesse has been going to bed much earlier.
[3:36] – I am excited that my summer goals are progressing well, with significant improvement in outdoor hours!
[4:41] – I reveal that I’m on track to finish 50 books this summer, boosting my annual goal of 75!
[5:45] – We have enjoyed films like The Boys in the Boat and Challenger: The Final Flight this summer.
[8:44] – I reflect on how watching Challenger: The Final Flight revealed surprising details and life lessons about decision-making.
[11:31] – A listener thanks us for introducing Ruta Sepetys’ books and recommends A Higher Call.
[12:54] – I recently finished Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots by Mary Marantz which profoundly resonated with my journey of confronting perfectionism.
[15:53] – A friend inspired me with her unscheduled summer approach, although I do need a routine to slow down.
[17:24] – Do your routines serve you or enslave you?
[19:09] – I’ve been enjoying playing the Connections game during my runs because it keeps my mind engaged.
[20:41] – I personally cherish my time running, when I pray and think freely; it’s liberating to me, not confining.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Strides app
Stacy Myers’ Instagram Page
Connections – Word Game
Films
The Boys in the Boat (Amazon Prime)
Challenger: The Final Flight (Netflix)
Books
Ruta Sepetys (author page)
A Higher Call: An Incredible True Story of Combat and Chivalry in the War-Torn Skies of World War II by Adam Makos & Larry Alexander
Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots: Finding Grace, Freedom, and Purpose in an Overachieving World by Mary Marantz
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 265. Routines and schedules: do they serve you or enslave you? appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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This week’s podcast episode covers a much-requested topic: our favorite audiobooks! Summer is a great time for reading and listening to more books — especially with road trips and/or just a slower schedule. And if you listen regularly to the podcast, you know we love audiobooks.
Whether you’re looking for a way to pass time while cleaning, cooking, or driving or you prefer listening to reading, this episode is packed with our favorite 20+ audiobooks to add to your listening library!
I managed to narrow my list down to 20 (okay, maybe a few more) and then Jesse shares some of his favorite series, too. We share a wide range of books — including my favorite book on habits, a book that inspired me to want to visit all the national parks, captivating fiction, eye-opening historical narratives, and more!
We also share how we find time to listen to audiobooks, when we listen to audiobooks, and how we listen to audiobooks. And we share how we never pay for audiobooks!
In This Episode[0:35] – Jesse and I are diving into our favorite audiobooks and sharing 20+ recommendations!
[2:59] – We use the Libby app to listen to audiobooks on my phone (+ when I listen to them!)
[4:53] – I start by recommending Lisa Wingate’s Before We Were Yours.
[5:51] – I highly recommend The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society for its engaging, well-narrated story.
[7:11] – Jesse enjoys starting a series from the beginning, like Bill O’Reilly’s Killing series.
[9:39] – Next up on my list is The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris.
[10:53] – Dear Bob and Sue recounts a couple’s witty, sarcastic adventures visiting all U.S. national parks.
[13:23] – Jesse enthuses over Vince Flynn’s American Assassin, which starts a series completed by other authors after his death.
[14:11] – I mention the highly popular book Atomic Habits.
[16:42] – The next audiobook on my list is The Things We Cannot Say by Kelly Rimmer.
[17:18] – Pam Jenoff’s The Orphan’s Tale explores how Jews were hidden in circuses during World War II.
[17:50] – I also mention Georgia Hunter’s We Were the Lucky Ones, which tells the true story of a Jewish family’s survival during World War II.
[18:52] – Madeleine Martin’s The Last Bookshop in London is a soothing story that encourages me to read some classic works.
[19:38] – Jesse and I both enjoyed The President Is Missing and The President’s Daughter for their thrilling political insights and insider details.
[20:59] – Kristin Hannah’s The Great Alone vividly depicts the harsh, isolating life in Alaska.
[22:29] – I reflect on how Shelby Van Pelt’s Remarkably Bright Creatures, featuring an octopus was unexpectedly compelling.
[23:51] – Last year’s “summer book club” led me to Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys, sparking my interest in Sepetys’ other historical fiction works.
[25:22] – The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek and The Book Woman’s Daughter by Kim Michele Richardson are also compelling.
[27:49] – For younger kids, I recommend the Little House on the Prairie series, great for both reading and listening!
Links & Resources
- Crystal Paine
Libby App
Goodreads - Everyday Reading: How to Get Free Out-Of-State Library Cards
Books
- Before We Were Yours: A Novel by Lisa Wingate
- The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society: A Novel by Mary Ann ShafferKilling Series by Bill O’Reilly
- The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris
- Dear Bob and Sue by Matt & Karen Smith
- Mitch Rapp Series by Vince Flynn
- Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear
- Code Name: Lise: The True Story of the Woman Who Became WWII’s Most Highly Decorated Spy by Larry Loftis
- Into the Lion’s Mouth: The True Story of Dusko Popov: World War II Spy, Patriot, and the Real-Life Inspiration for James Bond by Larry Loftis
- The Things We Cannot Say by Kelly Rimmer
- The Orphan’s Tale: A Novel by Pam Jenoff
- We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter
- The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin
- The President Is Missing by James Patterson & Bill Clinton
- The President’s Daughter by James Patterson & Bill Clinton
- The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
- Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
- Ruta Sepetys (author page)
- The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek: A Novel by Kim Michele Richardson
- The Book Woman’s Daughter: A Novel by Kim Michele Richardson
- Little House on the Prairie (book series) by Laura Ingalls Wilder
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 264. Our Top 20+ Favorite Audiobooks appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Welcome, dear listeners, to another episode of The Crystal Paine Show! This week, join Jesse and I as I share something really special and personal – my goals for this summer! You might recall from our recent episodes that I set a theme for this summer: a “slowed down summer.” Today, I am explaining what that means for me and the specific goals I’ve set to bring this theme to life! Some of these goals might seem a bit contradictory to the idea of slowing down, but stick with me, and I’ll explain how they all fit together.
First off, I am aiming to run 100 miles this summer! I know that running might not sound like slowing down, but for me, it’s a form of meditation that clears my mind and refreshes my spirit. There is also my goal to finish 50 books. Reading is such a calming activity for me, and I am finding new ways to fit it into my day, especially by using small pockets of free time reading rather than scrolling.
In addition, I want to spend more quality time with our kids. We’re going to finish reading Farmer Boy and Little House on the Prairie with the younger ones and work through their educational goals. Jesse and I are also planning to go on 26 dates – one for each letter of the alphabet – and we have fifteen left!
This summer is all about finding that sweet spot where I can thrive in both my personal and professional life without feeling overwhelmed, and I hope this episode encourages you to think about your own summer goals and how they align with your desire to slow down and savor life! I would love to hear about your plans and how you’re making space for what truly matters, so feel free to reach out!
In This Episode
[0:35] – I am sharing my goals for a slowed-down summer, surprising Jesse with some specifics!
[1:42] – I share how, despite it being a busy month, I savored graduation week with family and meaningful moments.
[4:18] – Jesse points out how David’s behavior and avoiding an overnight medical procedure made the evening much better.
[7:45] – I discuss having enjoyed the book Win at Work and Succeed at Life, which challenged me to rethink overworking and balance business with personal priorities.
[10:31] – My summer goals focus on working less and slowing down, with specific objectives to achieve this.
[11:11] – Hear about my first goal: to run 100 miles, finding running cathartic and rejuvenating despite its apparent contradiction to slowing down.
[13:55] – I also plan to incorporate activities like biking and rowing for consistency and enjoyment.
[14:33] – Learn about my second goal: to finish 50 books!
[16:40] – I discuss having managed to read five books in a week amidst graduation celebrations.
[18:30] – I also want to finish reading Farmer Boy and Little House on the Prairie with the little ones.
[19:44] – I aim to finish reading the Biggest Story Bible with my younger kids and go on eight dates with her older kids, as I want to prioritize quality time and fun experiences.
[21:21] – Jesse and I share a goal of going on fifteen more dates with each other.
[22:25] – I reveal that I, in addition, plan to prioritize one-on-one dates with my older kids, embracing flexibility while aiming for monthly outings.
[24:59] – Jesse hopes to finally finish Three Felonies a Day this summer.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
Win At Work And Succeed At Life: 5 Principles To Free Yourself From The Cult Of Overwork by Michael Hyatt & Megan Hyatt Miller
Farmer Boy: Little House, Book 2 by Laura Ingalls Wilder
Little House on the Prairie (book series) by Laura Ingalls Wilder
The Biggest Story Bible Storybook | 104 Engaging Bible Stories for Ages 6–12 by Kevin DeYoung & Don Clark
Three Felonies A Day: How the Feds Target the Innocent by Harvey Silvergate and Alan M. Dershowitz
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 263. Our Goals for a Slowed Down Summer appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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I am so excited for you to dive into this episode as I have a truly special guest, Jessica Hurlbut, whose story and book, Unlimited Motherhood: Overcome 12 Limits That Overwhelm and Conflict Our Hearts, have been deeply inspiring for me and likely will be for you as well!
Jessica is truly a force with which to be reckoned! A mom of five, with two kids with severe autism and two adopted kids via foster care, her journey is nothing short of extraordinary, filled with challenges and incredible moments of faith. Listen as she and I discuss how she navigates the complexities of raising children with special needs, the emotional rollercoaster of fostering and adopting, and the profound lessons that she has learned along the way.
One of the most touching parts of our conversation has to be Jessica’s transparency about her struggles, and she shares candidly about the hidden years of motherhood. For her, these were years filled with isolation and relentless challenges, especially with a daughter on the autism spectrum, but it was during these times that she learned invaluable lessons about surrender, trust, and finding beauty in the unexpected.
Also tune in to hear some incredible stories, such as when Jessica and her husband took in a young man named Adam who was struggling with addiction. Their willingness to say “yes” to this led to a year of transformation for Adam and their family, and these inspiring stories are truly a testament to the power of stepping out in faith, even when it looks nothing like we imagined.
If you are a parent, especially a foster parent and/or one navigating the challenges of children with special needs, then this episode is definitely for you! Jessica’s insights and experiences will encourage you to lean into God’s grace and trust His process. Her book, which isn’t just a how-to guide for motherhood but is also a heartfelt and vulnerable memoir, is a must-read for anyone looking to find deeper meaning and purpose in the everyday struggles of motherhood, so be sure to get yourself a copy!
In This Episode[0:35] – Join me for this episode as I interview Jessica Hurlbut, author of Unlimited Motherhood!
[1:33] – Learn a little bit about Jessica and her background.
[4:42] – Jessica shares how she adopted two children whose biological parents, after two years, surrendered their parental rights.
[5:42] – Jessica experienced eight isolating years as a stay-at-home mom to a child with autism.
[8:17] – I appreciate Jessica’s book’s deep truths and honest storytelling.
[9:33] – Jessica describes healing as a process, emphasizing that trust in God grows through life’s unexpected challenges.
[11:58] – Jessica believes that God uses our struggles to lead us to a better life than we envisioned, which requires faith and trust.
[14:40] – Fostering and adopting ultimately led to unexpected blessings for Jessica.
[17:11] – I value the message of finding deep inner peace by trusting God despite life’s chaos, emphasizing being faithful and present over merely surviving.
[18:07] – Motherhood isn’t about controlling outcomes or being a supermom but is about trusting God, Jessica argues.
[21:10] – I share how fostering a boy, then letting him reunify with his birth mother, showed my kids faith-driven decisions.
[22:47] – Hear how Jessica fostered a young man named Adam who was struggling with addiction.
[25:46] – Despite her initial doubt, Adam’s time with Jessica ended up being healing and transformative.
[26:39] – Adam struggled to accept love, exhibiting familiar foster care patterns, yet ultimately found redemption.
[29:14] – I close by highlighting the impact of obedient faith.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
Unlimited Motherhood: Overcome 12 Limits That Overwhelm and Conflict Our Hearts by Jessica Hurlbut
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 262. What Autism Has Taught Me About Limits & the Goodness of God (with Jessica Hurlbut) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Join Jesse and I this week as we tackle a topic that sort of blew up recently because of an Instagram post of mine – things that we wish that we knew before having an adult child! Because of the incredible conversations that the Instagram post sparked, I thought that it would be great to sit down with Jesse and unpack what we’ve learned so far. We’re just a year into this journey, but let me tell you, there’s so much we didn’t know and wish we had been prepared for.
This episode is a bit of a heart-to-heart about the ups and downs of watching our kids stretch their wings and navigate life on their own. It’s such a joy to see them succeed and grow, but it’s also tough to watch them struggle and face hardships that we can’t fix for them. We’ll share some of our experiences and the surprising lessons that we have learned along the way, hoping that it will all resonate with those of you in similar seasons of life.
I hope that you will join us as we explore the beautiful, messy, and rewarding journey of parenting adult children. We hope that this conversation encourages you, whether you’re about to launch your kids into adulthood or you’re right in the thick of it. Remember, you’re not alone, and there’s so much grace and growth to be found in this season!
Also tune in to hear about my goal for a “slowed-down summer.” This year, I’ve been intentional about clearing my schedule to spend more time with the kids, and I am so excited about it! If you are looking for ways to slow down and make the most of family time, we’ve put together a freebie with 100 fun and low-cost activities. You can print it out, cut the ideas into strips, and pull one out each day for a spontaneous family adventure. We hope that it helps you create some beautiful memories!
In This Episode[0:35] – We are talking today about things we wish we knew before having an adult child, a topic inspired by an Instagram post.
[1:35] – Hear about the goal that I set for this summer.
[3:52] – I recently read and loved Tired of Being Tired by Jess Connolly.
[6:02] – Jesse shares what he loves about the Appigo Todo app.
[8:50] – I touch upon how I’ve learned to text Jesse about important emails to avoid communication issues.
[10:48] – Jesse’s overflowing email inboxes require text reminders with deadlines to ensure he sees important messages.
[13:13] – Having adult children is ultimately rewarding but also challenging because you have to learn to let go and not intervene.
[14:22] – Teaching your kids independence means resisting the urge to intervene and letting them handle challenges themselves.
[17:53] – Jesse adds that teaching kids to be more self-sufficient involves giving them tools to confront problems.
[20:01] – Allowing kids to experience tough relationships can teach them valuable lessons more effectively than intervening can; allow them to learn.
[21:55] – Jesse argues that not intervening when help is not requested helps build trust.
[24:03] – I describe how starting my day with a walk and prayer helps me support and connect with each of my kids.
[26:18] – In closing, parenting older children is challenging but rewarding, reminding me to trust God.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Free Summer Bucket List
Appigo Todo App
Books
Tired of Being Tired: Receive God’s Realistic Rest for Your Soul-Deep Exhaustion by Jess Connolly
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 261. Things We Wish We Knew Before Having an Adult Child appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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I’m super excited to share this episode with you because it’s a special one. I have had today’s guest, my dear friend Myquillyn Smith, on the show before back in episode 12! The author of House Rules: How to Decorate for Every Home Style and Budget, she is here with me today as we reminisce about our early blogging days and how far we’ve come since then. We dive into some insightful conversations about the world of social media presence and the challenges we’ve faced along the way.
Listen in as Myquillyn and I chat about the importance of authenticity and the power of starting with what you know. Myquillyn shares some fantastic tips from her book such as the “Homey Trinity” and the significance of proper lighting and decor scale. She even reveals how limitations can actually lead to creativity in unexpected ways.
That’s not all, though! We also discuss the concept of clutter and how to navigate the fine line between cozy and chaotic. Plus, Myquillin shares her struggles with storing stuff on the floor (something with which I can totally relate).
Throughout the conversation, Myquillin, with her wisdom, reminds us that our homes should serve us, not the other way around, so if you’re craving some inspiration to spruce up your space, grab a cup of tea and join us for some delightful decor chat, and don’t forget to pick up a copy of Myquillyn’s book!
In This Episode[0:35] – Today’s guest is returning guest Myquillyn Smith!
[2:02] – Myquillyn reveals how starting online was intimidating due to privacy concerns, hence adopting the pseudonym The Nester.
[4:33] – Teaching decor involves guidelines, but breaking rules can enhance creativity and confidence.
[7:29] – Do what you know, use what you have, and finish what you started with.
[9:11] – Myquillyn advises starting with inspiration, creating a Pinterest board, and identifying the needs of a room for decorating confidently.
[12:12] – Hear how, despite admiring fancy drapes, Myquillyn adapted them to better suit her casual lifestyle.
[15:39] – When we find ourselves overly protective of decor, it’s a sign that we are babysitting, not living.
[17:54] – I point out how owning practical, easy-to-clean furniture allows freedom in enjoying and sharing your home.
[19:29] – Myquillyn discusses how appreciating thrift store finds without feeling compelled to own them brings her peace and contentment.
[22:00] – Learn how mastering the “Homey Trinity” of rugs, window treatments, and lighting transformed Myquillyn’s decorating approach.
[25:30] – Myquillyn identifies her biggest struggle as items left on the floor becoming unintended decor.
[26:44] – Hear my solution to Myquillyn’s challenge – keeping a dumpster in the garage for donations.
[28:25] – I commend House Rules for making decorating simple and best suited to one’s family.
[30:38] – Be sure to check out 10 Weeks to a More Organized Home, and use the code PODCAST at checkout!
Links & ResourcesCrystal Paine
The Crystal Paine Show – 12. How to Create a Home That Serves Your Family (with Myquillyn Smith)
Myquillyn’s Website
Myquillyn’s Instagram Page
Myquillyn’s Threads Page
10 Weeks to a More Organized Home
Books
House Rules: How to Decorate for Every Home Style and Budget by Myquillyn Smith
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 260. Simple Rules to Decorate Your Home No Matter Your Style or Budget (with Myquillyn Smith) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Jesse and I are tackling a topic this week that was inspired by a blog post of mine and subsequent discussions on Instagram and Facebook – attending college without drowning in debt! Jesse, who managed to graduate undergrad and law school debt-free, joins me to challenge the prevailing myth that accumulating student debt is inevitable.
Drawing from personal experiences and observations, we unravel strategies and mindsets that can pave the way to debt-free higher education. We confront common misconceptions, emphasizing the importance of belief in the possibility of debt-free graduation. Through thoughtful planning, creativity, and a willingness to challenge conventional wisdom, we explore avenues such as attending in-state colleges, leveraging scholarships, and strategically tackling general education credits. From community college options to seizing opportunities for tuition reimbursement, we unveil diverse pathways to minimize the financial burden of higher education.
We also share insights gathered from our journeys and from the community, highlighting the abundance of resources and scholarships just waiting to be discovered. By fostering a shift in mindset and instilling financial responsibility early on, we envision a generational impact that opens doors to a debt-free future, so join us as we navigate the maze of college finances, debunk myths, and empower listeners to take charge of their educational journey!
In This Episode[0:35] – Today’s topic – getting a debt-free college education, was inspired by a blog post of mine.
[2:27] – Jesse argues that belief in possibility is the initial step towards accomplishing anything.
[3:42] – Options do exist to attend college without debt for most individuals willing to explore alternatives.
[5:56] – I point out how effort can significantly reduce college debt.
[7:33] – Hear how debt relies on uncertain futures; prioritize your current affordability.
[10:24] – Choosing in-state education and state scholarships drastically reduces college expenses.
[13:21] – I discuss how community colleges, often covered by state scholarships, offer affordable Gen Ed credits, which can really help save money.
[15:13] – I encourage you to plan strategically; explore dual enrollment, community college for savings, and alternatives to expensive on-campus living.
[18:48] – Jesse adds that many students transfer schools after the first year, indicating initial choices may not be your final choices.
[19:12] – I agree, advising listeners to stay flexible because college plans can change.
[21:45] – Challenge your own students to actively seek scholarships because numerous opportunities exist, even for niche interests or traits.
[24:12] – Encourage students to also treat scholarship hunting as a part-time job, maximizing financial aid opportunities.
[25:47] – It’s important to explore job opportunities offering tuition reimbursement or discounts, including college roles such as being an RA.
[27:39] – Get some advice on free college programs such as College of the Ozarks.
[29:53] – Jesse closes by encouraging a mindset shift towards creative solutions, paving the way for generational financial freedom.
Links & ResourcesCrystal Paine
Money Saving Mom – “How To Graduate College Debt-Free”
College of the Ozarks – “Graduate Debt Free”
Social Media* Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) * Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) * Crystal Paine on LinkedIn * Crystal Paine on Twitter * Crystal Paine on Goodreads * Money Saving Mom * Money Saving Mom on Facebook * Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group * crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 259. Going to College Debt-Free: Our Best Tips & Strategies appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Today’s episode is on a topic that was actually requested by a follower! Jesse and I are diving into something very close to my heart: navigating back-to-back senior years with our daughters, Kathrynne and Kaitlynn! It has truly been a whirlwind of emotions and logistics, but Jesse and I are opening up about our experiences – the highs, the challenges, and the unexpected lessons that we have learned along the way.
With our having back-to-back seniors, it has definitely been a mix of emotions for us. From managing graduation festivities to navigating college preparations, listen as Jesse and I share the highs and lows of this journey. Let me tell you, it has absolutely been a learning curve, but we are embracing it all with open hearts and minds.
Grab a cup of your favorite drink, and join us as we peel back the layers of having back-to-back seniors, offering insights, lessons learned, and maybe a few laughs along the way. Also, don’t forget to download our free Simplified Home Checklists!
In This Episode[0:35] – Jesse and I are talking today about handling back-to-back seniors, sharing lessons learned and adjustments made.
[1:13] – I share insights from a devotional from a book, highlighting God’s timing and unexpected blessings.
[4:08] – Hear how I discovered unforeseen opportunities through Money Saving Mom, fostering independence and challenging anxiety positively.
[7:03] – Be sure to follow @crystaliscleaning on Instagram!
[9:04] – I begin reflecting on the challenges and emotional intensity of having two back-to-back high school seniors.
[12:52] – Jesse finds our current senior year smoother compared to the previous one, crediting Kaitlynn’s self-motivation.
[13:44] – I reflect on simplifying preparations for Kaitlynn’s graduation, learning from past experiences with Kathrynne.
[16:07] – Planning a party separately from other commitments helps ease family stress during graduation celebrations.
[19:05] – I reflect on the last-minute rush to meet deadlines for Kaitlynn’s senior activities, contrasting with Kathrynne’s preferences.
[22:18] – Encouraging preparedness and focusing on the next year makes for smoother transitions for children.
[23:13] – Listen as I reflect on Kaitlynn’s openness to uncertainty and evolving plans for the future.
[26:03] – Having back-to-back senior children ultimately brings both challenges and benefits, fostering shared experiences and guidance.
[28:09] – I anticipate the bittersweet transition as Silas approaches graduation, embracing the present while also thinking about the future.
Links & ResourcesCrystal Paine
BooksEmbraced: 100 Devotions to Know God Is Holding You Close by Lysa TerKeurst
Social Media* Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
* Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
* Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
* Crystal Paine on Twitter
* Crystal Paine on Goodreads
* Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
* Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
* crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 258. How We’re Processing Having Back-to-Back Seniors appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Do you ever feel like you’re just barely keeping your head above water? If so, this episode of The Crystal Paine Show is for you! Jesse and I have been married for 21 years and we’ve learned and grown a lot in those years — and tried a lot of different things that worked and many things that didn’t.
In this conversation, we share some of our simple systems that keep us sane and help us to have breathing room in our days to enjoy our life and invest in what matters most.
First up, we talk about how we each have our own jurisdictions in managing our house and business and what that looks like. We also share what we expect of our kids and how us all working together really frees up a lot of physical and emotional energy for us as parents.
Then, we move onto detailing changes we’ve made this year to simplify and how it has made such a difference: like reserving one day a week for meetings and interviews, carefully considering commitments and what that looks like for us right now, and how we have our work schedule set up so we both get time to work in.
We end with sharing a number of different strategies we employ to eliminate decision fatigue and to streamline our lives: things like groceries, dishes, laundry, daily routines, avoiding paper piles, and more! I also give you a little peek into my home life growing up and talk about how my mom’s organized systems influenced me.
If you’re ready to ditch the overwhelm and reclaim your peace of mind, I hope our ideas serve as a springboard for solutions that might work for you, and don’t forget to snag your free Simplified Home Checklists!
In This Episode[0:35] – Today’s episode dives into practical strategies for maintaining sanity and enjoying life even if there’s a lot going on.
[1:52] – Delegation and instilling teamwork and work ethic in our kids.
[4:35] – Gradual release of responsibility leads to independence as kids develop their own systems over time.
[8:20] – Everyone is an asset to our home and we all work together.
[11:05] – What simplifying has looked like for our home and schedule this year and one change that has made a big difference.
[15:58] – Our current schedule for work-life balance with both of us working from home.
[18:39] – How my mom’s organized systems have influenced me.
[20:46] – Scheduling grocery deliveries and using cost-saving programs like Kroger Boost.
[22:59] – Daily routines, paper piles, and how we prep for our day the night before.
[27:52] – Check out the free Simplified Home Checklists!
Links & Resources* Crystal Paine * 208. Slacker Parenting (AKA How to spend less time micromanaging and more time enjoying your kids) * 232. Why We Require Our Teens to Get a Job at 15 * Kroger Boost * Simplified Home Checklists
Social Media* Crystal Paine on Instagram * Crystal Paine on Twitter * Crystal Paine on Goodreads * Money Saving Mom * Money Saving Mom on Facebook * Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group * crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 257. Simple Systems That Keep Us Sane appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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This episode is a reminder to trust your God-given intuition. If you feel something is wrong or off, get it checked out.
In this podcast, we share the story of Micah getting really sick recently and how it ended up landing him in the hospital. We got so many questions from you all about his illness and how we knew when it was time to take him to the hospital/what we experienced, that I thought recording a podcast episode sharing in-depth might be helpful.
We’re so grateful that Micah is doing better now and fully back to his sweet, busy, silly self! We missed all his smiles and laughter and singing while he was sick!
In this episode, we also give an update on what we’re reading, share a reader’s response to last week’s episode, and we have a fun and friendly “argument” over audiobooks.
In This Episode
[0:35] – This week, we’re sharing about Micah’s recent sickness and hospital stay.
[1:27] – Jesse is still reading Three Felonies A Day by Harvey Silvergate and Alan M. Dershowitz because it’s a dense read.
[2:01] – I’ve been reading I Want God by Lisa Whittle.
[4:10] – I share a message from a listener about commentary in last episode about Farmer Boy.
[6:07] – Jesse and I have a friendly discussion about whether audiobooks count as “reading” and he shares about the John Grisham audiobooks he’s listened to recently, including Jake Brigance trilogy.
[8:45] – I had a very full weekend planned, including my last girls-only youth group camp and attending my friend’s wedding, but that all changed when Micah got sick.
[12:04] – We knew we needed to do something and ended up calling and asking about getting Zofran.
[14:01] – Micah’s symptoms persisted, prompting a pediatrician visit.
[18:39] – We ended up in the ER and it took many attempts plus two rounds of sedatives to finally get the IV in.
[24:31] – After hours of IV fluids in the ER, they ended up deciding to admit Micah as his labs didn’t look good.
[29:23] – I touch upon some of the lessons that were learned from this experience.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
- Three Felonies A Day: How the Feds Target the Innocent by Harvey Silvergate and Alan M. Dershowitz
- I Want God: How to Love Him with Your Whole Heart and Revive Your Soul by Lisa Whittle
- Farmer Boy: Little House, Book 2 by Laura Ingalls Wilder
- Jake Brigance Trilogy by John Grisham
Social Media
- Crystal Paine on Instagram
- Crystal Paine on Goodreads
- Money Saving Mom
- Money Saving Mom on Facebook
- Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
- crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 256. Micah’s Unexpected Hospital Stay appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Join Jesse and I this week as we sit down together for a personal episode where we tackle some burning questions submitted by followers on Instagram and share some life updates. (Including a story about a recent travel mishap where we ended up locked out of our own house at 2 a.m.!!)
We kick things off by discussing our recent trip to Kansas for Easter — our first time to fly with all three younger kids in over a year. We went to a goat farm, connected with friends we hadn’t seen in a long time, and got to spend a lot of wonderful time with family. We also talk about a book I’m reading aloud to the kids, a tea I’m loving, and a freebie we launched recently.
And then we dive into your questions on marriage. We reflect on our marriage journey, sharing advice and revelations from over two decades together. We talk about daily flirting, how our lives have taken very different paths than we ever envisioned, how we’ve grown and learned to work together, whether Jesse has always been a nerd, who makes the meals, and much more. If you enjoy a peek behind-the-scenes of our life, you don’t want to miss this fun episode!
Also, don’t forget to check out my newly launched 10 Weeks to a More Organized Home resource! (And use code PODCAST to save!!)
In This Episode[0:35] – Jesse and I are excited for a lighthearted episode answering Instagram followers’ marriage-related questions!
[1:55] – All the details on our recent trip to Kansas, including how our three younger kids did on the trip.
[5:40] – How we ended up locked out of the house at 2 a.m.!
[8:09] – A listener responding to our 1900s episode shared about having a car phone in the 1990s for safety concerns.
[9:29] – I have been enjoying Lemon Loaf Tea from TAZO, despite not typically liking lemon tea.
[10:26] – The little kids are loving Farmer Boy a book from the Little House series.
[13:25] – Before we dive into the questions, check out our free Simplified Home Checklists on our website!
[15:13] – Jesse and I have been married for twenty-two years in January.
[15:54] – Flirt daily; it’s amazing how something so simple keeps the connection strong.
[17:33] – The hardest (but most important words!) to say in a marriage.
[23:55] – Who does the cooking at our house?
[24:52] – How nerdy was Jesse when we met?
[27:07] – How did we know how big we wanted our family to be?
[29:49] – In 21 years, we’ve cultivated an intuitive bond, anticipating each other’s needs and openly addressing frustrations to improve our communication
[32:11] – Approach situations from a place of love, not opposition, with each other’s best interests at heart.
[32:56] – When overwhelmed, I confide in Jesse, who offers support or a listening ear; gratitude and encouragement nurture our bond.
Links & Resources
- Crystal Paine
- 250.What it was like living in the 1900’s
- TAZO Glazed Lemon Loaf Herbal Tea Bags for Health and Wellness
- Simplified Home Checklists
Books
- Farmer Boy: Little House, Book 2 by Laura Ingalls Wilder
- Little House on the Prairie (book series) by Laura Ingalls Wilder
Social Media
- Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Goodreads - Money Saving Mom
- Money Saving Mom on Facebook
- Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
- crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 255. Answering your burning questions on marriage appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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This week’s podcast guest is Kaitlynn (my 16-year-old!) who is here to discuss the details of her unforgettable trip to Singapore and Indonesia! Join us as Kaitlynn shares exclusive insights into her trip, talks about why she chose to go on this trip, and all the highlights (and a few lowlights) of the experience.
The trip started out rocky with a delayed flight that caused their group to miss their a 17.5-hour flight to Singapore and end up stranded in San Francisco at 2 am in the morning! Kaitlynn recounts some of the things she felt and learned and some unexpected fun in the midst — including impromptu volleyball games in airport terminals! She also shares how the unexpected adventures brought more camaraderie.
In Indonesia, they spent time in a remote fishing village helping build a retaining wall, in addition to a Survivor Challenge and a hike in the jungle. In Singapore, they got to enjoy the bustling city life and vibrant culture while exploring the city. Some of her favorites from her time there were the rooftop restaurant and iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and the electronic Supertrees.
We close out the episode with Kaitlynn reflecting on the lessons learned and the lasting friendships forged.
In This Episode[0:35] – Kaitlynn joins us talk about her trips to Indonesia and Singapore!
[2:49] – Tight layovers, flight delays, and being unexpectedly stuck in San Fransisco.
[8:48] – Indonesia and Singapore were stark contracts to each other.
[10:26] – What their accommodations were like, helping at the village, and the intense heat and humidity.
[18:25] – An exciting jungle hike, including a waterfall, an ankle sprain, monkeys, and heat exhaustion.
[20:52] – Singapore was a whole different, modern world.
[26:56] – Chinatown and Starbucks where she had an excellent chai.
[29:42] – Kaitlynn reflects on the trip and highlights stark financial contrasts between Singapore and remote villages
[33:27] – Despite challenges, Kaitlynn embraced Philippians’ message: refrain from complaining and foster faith and gratitude.
[35:55] – I am excited to announce 10 Weeks to a More Organized Home, a step-by-step guide to help you clear out the clutter and get more organization in your home and lives! Use the code PODCAST for a special deal!
Links & Resources* Crystal Paine * 10 Weeks to a More Organized Home
Social Media* Crystal Paine on Instagram * Crystal Paine on Goodreads * Money Saving Mom * Money Saving Mom on Facebook * Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group * crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 254. Kaitlynn’s trip to Singapore and Indonesia appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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There were tears and there was laughter on this episode of the podcast, because we talked about the vulnerable (and sometimes difficult!) topic of belonging. And my guests were Chris and Julie Bennett, the authors of Fighting for Family: The Relentless Pursuit of Building Belonging.
As the title of their book would suggest, Chris and Julie are passionate about relationships and community. In the conversation, they share about how family isn’t just the people who you are related to, it can also be people who become like family because of your deep friendship.
The Bennetts share their story of a very crazy and chaotic season in their lives — uprooting their lives to move to Los Angeles without a clear plan, not being able to find housing, moving again and again, while facing the completely unexpected diagnosis of stage three breast cancer for Julie.
They share how hard it was, but also how good it was. How God used this space where they felt like they had nothing to offer and were so needy to teach them powerful lessons about belonging.
In this episode, they share some of what they have learned and provide encouragement for anyone who is feeling lonely or like they are an outsider.
If you’re craving deeper connections, longing for a sense of belonging, or simply seeking inspiration to navigate life’s challenges with grace and resilience, this episode is for you. I think you will be so blessed by this heartfelt conversation!
In This Episode
[0:35] – I am interviewing Chris and Julie Bennett, authors of the book Fighting for Family.
[1:50] – Chris reveals how the book came to be.
[3:21] – Julie points out how life’s challenges turned her adventurous family into brave survivors, battling homelessness and cancer together.
[5:49] – Their faith was deepened amidst chaos, reshaping their understanding of belonging.
[8:49] – How did Julie and Chris navigate the immense risk and uncertainty, especially with children involved?
[15:43] – Julie, despite hesitations, joined a diverse group of fourteen women and these women ended up serving as a lifeline for her.
[19:35] – Belonging involves both giving and taking risks.
[24:05] – Fostering genuine connections requires vulnerability without hidden agendas, creating space for authentic sharing.
[27:00] – Chris reasons that Jesus exemplified love and belonging, prioritizing the marginalized and modeling inclusiveness.
[29:39] – It’s okay to feel lonely, even with loved ones. Keep fighting; there’s hope ahead.
[31:51] – And stay tuned at the end for an exciting announcement of a project I’ve been working on for a number of months that I’m finally launching this week! I announce that I am launching “10 Weeks to a More Organized Home,” with daily tasks for decluttering.
Links & Resources* Crystal Paine * 10 Weeks to a More Organized Home * Chris and Julie’s podcast
Books Fighting for Family: The Relentless Pursuit of Building Belonging by Chris & Julie Bennett * Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community* by Robert D. Putnam
Social Media* Crystal Paine on Instagram * Crystal Paine on Goodreads * Money Saving Mom * Money Saving Mom on Facebook * Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group * crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 253. How to Build Belonging in a World of Loneliness (with Chris and Julie Bennett) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Silas makes his formal debut on the podcast this week by joining Jesse and me to share about their trip to DC. He’s joined in on a few podcasts in the past when he was much younger and didn’t say much, so I’m excited for you to get to hear more from him now that he’s older and less scared of the microphone.
Jesse and Silas recount the adventures they had on the 8th grade school trip, including flying Southwest (and winning some vouchers), Arlington, the Holocaust Museum, the 9/11 Memorial at the Pentagon, Museum of the Bible, the Capitol, Mount Vernon, Gettysburg, the White House Visitor’s Center, and more!
You’ll enjoy hearing both of their perspectives on it, what they learned, what was disappointing and surprising, and places they want to return to. They shared some stories and insights I hadn’t yet heard from their trip, so it was really fun for me to sit back and listen — I hope you enjoy it as much we did recording it!
In This Episode[0:35] – Silas and Jesse are here to recount their recent trip to Washington D.C.!
[2:19] – Jesse admits that this trip was better than Kathrynne’s eighth-grade trip because they flew this time.
[3:18] – Silas won two $50 gift vouchers on the trip!
[4:49] – Jesse highlights getting to know the teens in Silas’s class better and visiting Arlington.
[5:59] – Silas reflects on gaining insights from classmates and highlighted visiting the Museum of the Bible and the Holocaust Museum.
[6:58] – Jesse found it unexpected and intriguing to meet someone who was in the Pentagon during the attack.
[7:43] – Hear Silas go into more detail about the visit to the Holocaust museum and Museum of the Bible, finding the transition from heavy to light.
[11:35] – I mention the personalized experience at the Holocaust Museum and compare it to a memorial in Israel.
[13:20] – Visiting the Capitol and the White House Visitor’s Center.
[16:42] – Was there anything that was disappointing or surprising about the trip?
[20:11] – Silas wants to go back to D.C. but with the whole family.
[21:26] – Jesse found their visit to Mount Vernon intriguing, describing it as a living history experience.
[25:13] – I share some exciting news: I am launching the Simplified Home Checklist, offering daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly tasks for organizing!
Links & Resources FREE Simplified Home Checklists* * Crystal Paine
Social Media* Crystal Paine on Instagram * Crystal Paine on Goodreads * Money Saving Mom * Money Saving Mom on Facebook * Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group * crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 252. Silas and Jesse share about their trip to DC appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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I’m guessing many of you have seen the funny crunchy video comedy clips from Really Very Crunchy on Instagram or TikTok or YouTube. Emily and Jason Morrow are the talented writers, producers, and actors for these and I got the privilege of interviewing Emily in-studio recently about her brand-new book, Really Very Crunchy: A Beginner’s Guide to Removing Toxins from Your Life Without Adding Them to Your Personality.
As my word for the year is health, I’ve especially loved Emily’s videos and her book. She makes me laugh, she makes me think, she teaches me a lot of things I never knew about (and then need to go Google for more information!), and she does it all in a very gracious and kind way.
In this episode of the podcast, Emily shares some really humorous stories (including why she got a pedicure and then took off the polish before coming to my house for the interview!) as well as very practical advice on how to live a more health-conscious lifestyle without breaking the bank. We talk about a lot of practices you can implement that are free and easy + she shares her best tips for eating healthy on a budget (they were so good and inspiring!).
Emily’s refreshing approach to the crunchy lifestyle, filled with self-deprecating humor, makes it accessible to everyone, regardless of their current choices. (She reminds us often that “crunchy is a spectrum” and it’s not worth losing relationships over crazy crunchy rules you’ve concocted.
We also touch on the challenges of balancing a crunchy lifestyle with real-world situations and she shared a recent situation she navigated at a family dinner. Emily encourages a mindful and compassionate approach, reminding us that we can have strong convictions without belittling, condemning, or ostracizing others.
The conversation also extends beyond dietary choices, as we also talk about the interconnectedness of mental and physical health. Emily’s perspective on stress and the importance of a balanced approach to health is so important for all of us to hear and remember.
In This Episode
[0:35] – My guest today is Emily Morrow, author of Really Very Crunchy.
[3:16] – Emily shares a bit of her journey and how they started posting videos without telling family or friends — and how crazy it was for these videos to end up going viral like they did.
[7:49] – Crunchy encompasses various lifestyles, from barefoot moms to outdoor enthusiasts, forming a diverse spectrum.
[9:52] – Emily encourages making healthier choices without significant sacrifices, emphasizing practical steps like avoiding single-use items.
[12:46] – Exposure to artificial light, especially from phones with blue light, disrupts sleep-inducing hormones.
[15:23] – Starting the day by avoiding potentially negative or distressing content on your phone helps center and set a positive tone.
[17:19] – How to have simplicity and sustainability in grocery shopping, minimizing plastic use.
[25:02] – Acknowledging her mom’s kindness in hosting, Emily chooses not to critique her cooking choices.
[30:04] – Stress, a top killer, shows us the importance of balance; even health pursuits shouldn’t compromise mental well-being.
[31:36] – Facing financial strain, Emily embraced a crunchy lifestyle, prioritizing simple, whole foods for a healthier living.
[33:26] – Choosing organic doesn’t have to be as expensive as many people make it; making your own food from simple ingredients offers affordability and health.
Links & Resources* Crystal Paine
Books Really Very Crunchy: A Beginner’s Guide to Removing Toxins from Your Life Without Adding Them to Your Personality* by Emily Morrow * Really Very Crunchy on Instagram * Really Very Crunchy on YouTube * Really Very Crunchy on TikTok
Social Media* Crystal Paine on Instagram * Crystal Paine on Twitter * Crystal Paine on Goodreads * Money Saving Mom * Money Saving Mom on Facebook * Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group * crystal@moneysavingmom.com
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Today’s episode is a fun departure from our recent more serious topics. Join me and Jesse as we take a lighthearted stroll down memory lane, exploring the quirks and charms of growing up in the 1900’s. Okay, so we were born in 1980 and 1981 to be exact, but it was still the 1900’s and so much has changed since then!
Born before the millennium? Get ready for a nostalgia-packed ride! The inspiration for today’s episode comes from a meme about being from the 1900’s that sparked a flood of childhood memories in our Instagram community. Join us as we reminisce about record players, cassette tapes, and the evolution of technology. From bag phones to the original Netflix to the joys of free AOL discs, we’ve got it all covered. If you remember playing Oregon Trail or had a station wagon with a seat that faced backwards or had a house with wood paneling, hopefully this episode will remind you of the “good ‘ole days”!
Also, remember that we have launched a new product – 10 Weeks of Money-Saving Menus. If menu-planning feels tedious and time-consuming, we’ve got your back! This resource has 60 budget-friendly recipes, complete with ready-made grocery lists! Plus, try a free one-week sample menu and don’t forget to use the code PODCAST to get the entire 10-week plan for just $9!!!
In This Episode[0:35] – Today’s episode takes a lighthearted look at the nostalgia of being born in the 1900’s.
[2:31] – After being pregnant and/or nursing for four and a half years, it’s so weird to not be either! And I kind of forgot how to eat for just one person!
[5:23] – Jesse highlights Kaitlynn’s unexpected layover in San Francisco due to flight delays.
[7:25] – I discuss upcoming trips, including Kaitlynn’s 11-day adventure and Jesse’s chaperoning role for Silas’s DC trip.
[10:39] – I am currently reading Susan Meissner’s Only the Beautiful which explores societal stigmas and hidden historical realities.
[14:04] – Exciting news! Our new product, 10 Weeks of Money-Saving Menus, simplifies dinner planning! And I’ve got a coupon code for you!
[16:07] – Today’s episode is sparked by a meme and dives into nostalgia, childhood memories, and technological evolution.
[18:26] – I reminisce about things like our basement record player, Walkman gardening, and more.
[20:31] – In a recent conversation with Silas, I realized I don’t know my kids’ phone numbers.
[23:10] – Jesse recalls law practices naming their offices something that would get more attention in the phonebook.
[24:38] – I get schooled on bag phones and we talk about our first phones.
[29:37] – Have we changed the way we parent and interact with people because of cell phones?
[32:31] – Metal slides and Merry-Go-Rounds!
[35:51] – We reminisce about free internet courtesy of AOL discs.
[38:00] – Cassette players, CD players, iPods, and planning our wedding on a PalmPilot.
Links & Resources* Crystal Paine * Sample one-week menu plan of 10 Weeks of Money-Saving Menus
Books Only the Beautiful* by Susan Meissner
Social Media* Crystal Paine on Instagram * Crystal Paine on X * Crystal Paine on Goodreads * Money Saving Mom * Money Saving Mom on Facebook * Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group * crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 250. What it was like living in the 1900’s :) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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This week, I get to share a conversation I had recently with Sara Hagerty — and it’s one I think you’ll love and be deeply inspired by! I know I was! Sara is the author of The Gift of Limitations: Finding Beauty in Your Boundaries and I resonated so deeply with her story and this book. In fact, it is my first 5-star read of 2024!
In this episode, Sara and I take a dive into her inspiring journey of facing limitations, from a challenging road to motherhood, 13 years of infertility, adopting four children, birthing 3 unexpected biological children, navigating a wide age range and seven kids, and dealing with chronic illness. Sara shares her wonderful wisdom on how to embrace and find beauty in the roadblocks, unexpected, and limitations of life.
We tackle tough questions and discuss the incredibly transformative power of acknowledging and grieving our limitations. Sara’s insights into incorporating pauses into our daily lives and allowing God to work through our limitations rather than against them spoke deeply to my soul and it’s something I’ve thought of multiple times since this interview. We also chat about the practical steps you can take to navigate the tension of feeling like there’s not enough of you to go around and the importance of trusting God in those moments.
I hope this conversation helps to shift your perspective on limitations and reveal the unexpected gifts that they can bring. There can actually be blessing in boundaries!
In This Episode[0:35] – I have Sara Hagerty in-studio today to talk about her book The Gift of Limitations!
[2:03] – Sara begins by diving into her journey and her experience with limitations in her life.
[4:03] – Despite chronic illness and years of infertility, Sara discovered God’s presence in the now and urges others to live fully.
[7:06] – Sara discusses how motherhood presents challenges in balancing personal dreams.
[8:43] – How did Sara get to a place where she was able to accept her limitations?
[12:33] – Sara explains that taking a few minutes daily to sit in grief and then into God’s comfort has helped her so much.
[13:41] – Naming and grieving underlying emotions in frustrating moments cultivates patience, easing family dynamics and expectations.
[16:21] – Amid life’s chaos, being present requires addressing underlying narratives through reflective pauses.
[19:47] – The profound question of God’s identity in our lives when one feels inadequate.
[23:48] – Allow God to work through life’s limitations.
[27:50] – Don’t push against limitations might hinder God’s work.
Links & Resources* Crystal Paine * Sara Hagerty
Books The Gift of Limitations: Finding Beauty in Your Boundaries* by Sara Hagerty
Social Media* Crystal Paine on Instagram * Crystal Paine on Twitter * Crystal Paine on Goodreads * Money Saving Mom * Money Saving Mom on Facebook * Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group * crystal@moneysavingmom.com
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Join Jesse and I this week as we discuss the sensitive topic of losing and rebuilding trust with teens after they’ve broken it. Inspired by a question from an Instagram follower, I share insights on the importance of having conversations before resorting to consequences. We highlight the importance of seeking to understand our teens’ perspectives (we don’t have to agree with them, but I think we should make the effort to try to understand) and adjusting consequences based on their willingness to rebuild trust. Explaining the reasons behind trust issues, such as social media incidents or phone privileges, is crucial to demonstrate genuine concern for their well-being.
We also touch on the significance of conversations around privileges vs. rights and and fostering a culture of trust from a young age. We give you some practical tool for how to approach those difficult discussions and encourage you to stop, take a breath, and ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom before you begin. Knee-jerk reactions driven by fear, pride, or selfishness can lead to us building a wedge, being a bit ridiculous in doling out consequences, or just shutting down communication lines with our kids.
We also discuss the two-way street of building and maintaining trust, encouraging parents to invest time, keep promises, and set positive examples. We wrap up by emphasizing the importance of parental introspection, checking our hearts, and seeking guidance from the Lord.
For more encouragement, I highly recommend checking out my free online class: “10 Days to a Happier Mom,” designed to help parents shift from frustration to a place of calmness and peace, ultimately parenting from a foundation of understanding how much you are loved by God and pursuing relationship with your kids instead of seeking to protect your reputation with others.
In This Episode[0:35] – What do you do when your teens break trust?
[1:35] – We recently dealt with our first broken bone for one of our kids — after 19 years of parenting!
[3:28] – I discuss a painful arm injury from my childhood that heightened my sensitivity to possible fractures in my children.
[12:16] – Am I actually considering becoming a gardener?? Or at least having a container garden??
[13:36] – I have been immersed in a book that has deeply resonated with me – Sara Hagerty’s The Gift of Limitations.
[16:26] – Reflecting on trust challenges with children prompted deep contemplation after a question on Instagram.
[22:32] – Before addressing any anger that I might be feeling toward my child, stop and assess your heart.
[25:18] – Engaging in open conversations with our children about trust builds understanding and fosters growth.
[27:10] – Before implementing consequences, talk with your kids, ask curious questions, and lean in and listen to seek to understand your child’s perspective.
[30:27] – Rebuilding trust is serious; show understanding, sadness, and love, and actively participate in rebuilding efforts mutually.
Links & Resources* Crystal Paine * Sign up for my 10 Days to a Happier Mom Challenge (it’s FREE!)
Books The Gift of Limitations: Finding Beauty in Your Boundaries* by Sara Hagerty
Social Media* Crystal Paine on Instagram * Crystal Paine on Twitter * Crystal Paine on Goodreads * Money Saving Mom * Money Saving Mom on Facebook * Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group * crystal@moneysavingmom.com
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Powered by RedCircle I am so excited to welcome Paul Angone back to the show, who was first on back in episode 127! Paul joins me today to talk about his book Listen to Your Day, delving into the concept of paying attention in the digital age and sharing how he’s transformed and improved his own relationship…
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We are talking all about transitions this week on the podcast because we have experienced many of them recently just in the last week alone! Listen as we dive into a whirlwind week of transitions in our lives. From Kathrynn embarking on her college journey and embracing adulthood to David starting preschool, it has truly been a rollercoaster of emotions!
We share the joys and challenges of these significant life changes and how we are adapting our family schedule to accommodate these shifts. Join us as we discuss the importance of embracing transitions, the power of community, and the unexpected blessings that come with watching children take flight into new adventures!
I also reveal how a simple question from Jesse saved my sanity during this hectic week. You won’t want to miss this episode full of real-life stories and insights into navigating transitions with grace and hope!
In This Episode
[0:35] – It has been one really hectic week!
[1:27] – Learn why recording this podcast was delayed so many times.
[4:06] – Another fiasco this week was Kierstyn cutting her own hair!
[6:38] – I didn’t know what to do, especially since Jesse wasn’t home.
[9:44] – One of the natural consequences was that Kierstyn’s scissor privileges were revoked.
[11:14] – Hear about yet another delay that happened this morning.
[12:41] – I have been reading The Worry-Free Parent by Sissy Goff.
[14:07] – Learn what has been saving my life this week!
[15:37] – Thinking about time management, I saved a lot of time by ordering groceries online.
[17:40] – The first of four big transitions is Kathrynn going away for college!
[19:58] – I share how proud I am of Kathrynn because of how well she is adjusting to adulthood.
[21:59] – I strongly encourage parents to live in the present and not fear the future.
[22:47] – Jesse also emphasizes the joy of celebrating Kathrynn’s transition into adulthood.
[23:59] – Kathrynn was worried about not knowing anyone at college but has been very social.
[25:36] – It’s so important to prioritize community over household projects when transitioning.
[27:55] – Another transition this week was David starting preschool!
[30:52] – Hear how our lives have drastically changed because of David being in preschool.
[33:18] – I am excited to homeschool our kids, spending mornings offline, and prioritizing family.
[35:19] – We have also been getting up much earlier, even on weekends!
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
The Worry-Free Parent: Living in Confidence So Your Kids Can Too by Sissy Goff
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
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Powered by RedCircle Step into a very candid conversation today as I am so thrilled to welcome Tricia Goyer to the show! Tricia is an accomplished author who’s been a part of my life for a long time, and our talk delves into her journey as an author, her unique family dynamics, and the importance…
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Powered by RedCircle Get ready for an episode of the show that I have been looking forward to for so long! I am joined today by the incredible Alli Worthington, author of the recently released book Remaining You While Raising Them: The Secret Art of Confident Motherhood. Believe me, if you’re seeking empowerment and practical guidance…
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Powered by RedCircle Welcome to another episode of The Crystal Paine Show! Join me in this episode as Jesse and I dive deep into the topic of love, its risks, and its worthiness. We share how recent experiences have challenged us to embrace the vulnerability of loving wholeheartedly. Whether it’s fostering a child and facing the…
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Powered by RedCircle Welcome to another episode of The Crystal Paine Show as I am beyond thrilled to have a special guest back in the studio! Lisa Whittle is here to talk about her new book God Knows: When Your Worries and Whys Need More Than Temporary Relief! This book is all about finding rest and comfort in God, and…
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Powered by RedCircle I’m so honored to have Sissy Goff back in the studio to discuss her new book, The Worry-Free Parent: Living in Confidence So Your Kids Can Too. When Sissy was here a couple years ago for her book Raising Worry Free Girls, the response was overwhelming, and to this day, I still hear from so many…
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Powered by RedCircle I hope that you will join Jesse and I today as we discuss three unexpected life changes that I have made over this summer. I want to share with you the huge impacts that they have made on my life and the positive habits that have been put into place without even…
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Powered by RedCircle I have really been looking forward to this topic and to having this guest on the show for weeks because a question that I frequently get asked on social media is regarding friendship and how I go about making friends. What do you do if you’re dealing with FOMO and feel like…
The post 219. How to find and build better friendships (with Laura Tremaine) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Powered by RedCircle Have you ever wondered what could happen when you go three weeks without sugar? Maybe it isn’t even sugar like it was for me; it could be anything that you’ve been using as a crutch. I am spending this episode discussing why and how I went twenty-one days without sugar as well…
The post 218. 21 Days of No Sugar and the surprising lessons I’m learning appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Powered by RedCircle Today’s guest is one that I am personally so excited to have on the show because I have been diving into her book, Right Where You Belong: How to Identify and Fully Occupy Your God-Given Space. Heather MacFadyen and I have so much in common and have really similar goals, and she…
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Powered by RedCircle You may recall from a couple of episodes ago our conversation in which we shared our thoughts on the Shiny Happy People docu-series. That episode was very unplanned and off-the-cuff, so we thought that we would do a follow-up episode because we got a lot of feedback wishing that they had heard…
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Powered by RedCircle I am so excited to have Natalie Runion on the show today, and this couldn’t have possibly happened at a better time! In the last episode, Jesse and I shared our thoughts about the docu-series Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets, and a lot of you reached out to me to say…
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Powered by RedCircle This may be one of the most controversial episodes I’ve ever recorded – and also the most personal! Amazon recently released a 4-part docu-series called Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets. While this series focuses on the Duggar family primarily, it dives into the world and beliefs of those who were part…
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Today’s guest has deeply impacted my life in just the small amount of time that I’ve been aware of her, and I have really been looking forward to this episode for a while. I hope that you will join me in welcoming the author of Every Woman a Theologian, Phylicia Masonheimer!
In addition to being the author of Every Woman a Theologian, Phylicia is the founder and C.E.O. of an organization of the same name, a business and ministry that teaches both Christian women and men how to identify what they believe and communicate it in a loving way. She spends time on the podcast diving into her book and explaining what she teaches via her business, offering encouragement and wisdom to listeners who struggle with identifying and carrying out their beliefs in their everyday lives.
Like I said, I find Phylicia and what she does to be so inspiring, and I am so grateful for her. I have even used parts of her book in my own family life because the book offers such great reference points, and I highly encourage you to go get yourself a copy!
In This Episode
[00:35] – I have been excited about this episode for a while!
[02:18] – Phylicia shares some background information about herself.
[03:24] – What did Phylicia want to do for a living when she was young?
[05:05] – Phylicia defines the term theology.
[06:36] – What if someone is doubting their faith?
[08:32] – Phylicia addresses the historical context of the Old Testament.
[10:41] – How would Phylicia address women not being valued in the Old Testament?
[13:03] – Phylicia defines theology without intimacy.
[14:59] – How do people have heart knowledge about Christianity?
[16:40] – Phylicia explains what it means to walk alongside the Holy Spirit.
[18:55] – Phylicia offers encouragement on how to find time for Jesus.
[20:36] – Perfection is the enemy of consistency.
[21:38] – Phylicia argues for the grace that comes with learning with your kids.
[25:42] – How does Phylicia communicate her faith to someone who has different beliefs?
[28:27] – Phylicia encourages people who ask how God can be good when they’re struggling.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
Every Woman a Theologian: Know What You Believe. Live It Confidently. Communicate It Graciously. by Phylicia Masonheimer
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
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It’s summer vacation for a lot of kids right now, and because of that, I have been getting a lot of questions from parents who are feeling overwhelmed having their kids home, not knowing what to do to keep them occupied. We are covering that today, providing ten questions that you should ask before summer. These questions are to mainly help your kids make a summer goals list so that they have things to do and things to accomplish.
Boredom can be a really good thing, so if you have kids who complain throughout the summer months of being bored, use it as an opportunity to help them come up with a list of goals that they want to achieve throughout the summer. Again, Jesse and I walk you through ten questions to ask your kids to help them plan for the summer, including but not limited to what they want to learn, where they want to go, who they want to help, what they might want to read or cook, and so much more!
These are just ten examples of many, many questions that could be asked. If you have other ideas, please feel free to reach out!
In This Episode
[00:35] – Feeling overwhelmed by having kids home over summer?
[01:55] – Hear some family updates.
[04:16] – Kathrynne invited over 170 people to her graduation party!
[07:32] – Things will be slowing down for us next week.
[09:03] – I have been reading Listen to Your Day by Paul Angone.
[10:41] – Learn what has been saving my life.
[13:36] – The deodorant that I’ve been using is at a great price.
[15:48] – Boredom can be a good thing.
[17:20] – The first question: what’s one thing I want to learn how to do?
[17:41] – What is a new idea I want to try?
[18:34] – What do I want to read?
[19:04] – Where is one place I want to go?
[19:55] – Who would I like to help?
[20:22] – What life skill do I want to learn and/or practice?
[20:55] – What do I want to learn to cook or bake?
[22:55] – What would I like to organize better?
[23:26] – What goal would I like to accomplish?
[24:03] – The final question: what is a business venture I’d like to take?
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
Listen to Your Day by Paul Angone
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
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I welcome Addison Bevere to the show today! Addison is the author of a brand new book titled Words with God: Trading Boring, Empty Prayer for Real Connection, and I am so glad that, even though I wasn’t too familiar with him until pretty recently, I had him on the show because he has such great wisdom and an inspirational story to share!
Addison discusses his parents and what he feels that they did well as parents and what they did not so well, what inspired him to write his new book, the difference between doubt and disbelief and why that’s important when it comes to praying, how there are many different types of prayer, and so much more!
He also walks us through some of the chapters from the book and what went into writing them, and I personally cannot wait to dive into this book! Be sure to check the link below to order a copy!
In This Episode
[01:05] – Learn about today’s guest, Addison Bevere.
[01:36] – Addison tells us about himself.
[03:22] – Addison gives examples of things his parents did well and not so well.
[05:15] – Hear more about Addison’s parents and his upbringing.
[06:32] – Humility creates safety.
[07:07] – Hear Addison describe what was behind his new book.
[08:37] – Addison has not always gotten prayer right.
[10:45] – Prayer is messy.
[13:49] – Addison argues that prayer is more about silence than it is speaking.
[16:14] – Addison says that there are many different kinds of prayer.
[19:18] – We are meant to live in the present.
[20:30] – What does everyday prayer look like for Addison?
[22:54] – Addison gives us some examples of practical prayers.
[26:32] – How can we identify whose voice we’re hearing when we listen?
[28:30] – Addison identifies how having words with God has been helpful to him.
Links & Resource
Crystal Paine
Books
Words with God: Trading Boring, Empty Prayer for Real Connection by Addison D. Bevere
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 211. Trading Boring, Empty Prayer for Real Connection (with Addison Bevere) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Listen in to this week’s podcast episode as I welcome our daughter, Kathrynne, back to the show! She joins me today to discuss her high school experience — a topic inspired by a recent night where she spoke at youth group. She had such wisdom to share there and I wanted her to get to share some of that on the podcast. In this episode, Kathrynne talks about how she was really dreading going into her senior year. She decided to focus on loving the younger kids and looking for ways to serve them and make them feel loved. She’s ending the year so thrilled by the friendships she made, the the memories she’s carrying with her, and the many opportunities she had to love the younger kids and hang out with them. It ended up being a GREAT year! Kathrynne tells us about a teacher who inspired her and made a difference in her life by going out of her way to show kindness to her — something that made her want to do the same for others. She gives some great advice to parents and other adults who want to connect with their teens, emphasizing the importance of making them feel like their interests and ideas matter. She also talks about how the idea of selling pizzas and sodas at lunchtime have led her to plan to major in business in college. This likely wouldn’t have happened had she not decided to make the most of her senior year rather than be miserable or just sad. My hope is that this conversation with her will inspire you to make the most of your opportunities and make a difference in the lives of others! In This Episode [00:35] – Our daughter Kathrynne is today’s guest! [02:19] – Kathrynne feels bittersweet about high school being over. [03:41] – Hear about Kathrynne’s rough transition between junior year and senior year. [05:48] – Kathrynne reflects on Back-to-School camp. [08:24] – Senioritis hit Kathrynne hard. [12:14] – Hear about a surprise party that was thrown for Kathrynne. [15:15] – What would Kathrynne say to adults who want to inspire teens? [17:21] – Kathrynne gives advice to parents who want to connect deeper with their kids. [18:35] – Kids are probably communicating with you even if it’s not verbally. [20:52] – Kathrynne has realized that she loves things related to business and earning money [22:50] – In addition to helping run pizza sales, Kathrynne began selling drinks at lunch. [24:18] – Kathrynne is considering majoring in business. [26:53] – Gratitude and attitude are the biggest takeaways here. Links & Resources * Love-Centered Parenting: The No-Fail Guide to Launching Your Kids by Crystal Paine * 10 Days to Be a Happier Mom * Sign up for the Hot Deals Email List * MoneySavingMom.com * My Instagram account (I’d love for you to follow me there! I usually hop on at least a few times per day and share behind-the-scenes photos and videos, my grocery store hauls, funny stories, or just anything I’m pondering or would like your advice or feedback on!) * Have feedback on the show or suggestions for future episodes or topics? Send me an email: crystal @ moneysavingmom.com
The post 210. Kathrynne shares surprising lessons she learned in high school appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Mother’s Day isn’t always flowers and chocolate and handmade cards. For many women, it’s a hard reminder of something that isn’t, something that once was, or something that might never be.Maybe you’ve lost a child.
Maybe you’re estranged from your mom.
Maybe your child has a life-threatening disease.
Maybe you’ve lost your mother.
Maybe you’re single and longing for marriage and motherhood.
Maybe that adoption you thought was going to go through didn’t.
Maybe you never really had a mother figure in your life.
Maybe you’re desperately longing for a child and struggling with infertility.
Maybe you are estranged from your grown child.
There are many, many reasons why today might be painful for you. I don’t know your exact circumstances or the burdens you are carrying today. But if Mother’s Day is hard for you, I want you to know this: You are not alone.
I can’t be there physically to hug you and pray with you like I wish I could, but I want you to know that I care about you and others in this community here do, too.
And I would be honored to pray for you — especially this Mother’s Day weekend. If you are struggling and would like extra prayer and encouragement, would you leave a comment on this post or send me a direct message?
You are loved. You are not alone. You are not forgotten.
I recorded a special Mother’s Day episode of my podcast a few weeks back with Katie Faris, the author of the book God Is Still Good: Gospel Hope and Comfort for the Unexpected Sorrows of Motherhood.
Katie has walked through really devastating times as a mom: miscarriage and three of her children being diagnosed with a genetic condition that has caused many difficult health struggles and will impact her kids for the rest of their lives.
In this episode, she shares more of her story and how she has clung to God and relied upon Him during the hard and dark seasons. I appreciated her honesty and vulnerability, but also her empathy and compassion. If you’re walking through a really difficult season related to motherhood or if Mother’s Day is really hard for you, I think this episode will encourage your heart.
In This Episode
[01:01] – Today’s guest is Katie Faris!
[05:02] – Katie shares the story of walking through the Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency diagnosis with three of her kids.
[13:14] – How has Katie held on to the belief that God is good?
[16:25] – Why having a go-to list of Bible verses has made such a difference.
[21:49] – Encouragement for the woman feeling discouraged and hopeless.
[26:08] – What would Katie say to women for whom Mother’s Day is hard?
Links & Resources God Is Still Good: Gospel Hope and Comfort for the Unexpected Sorrows of Motherhood by Katie Faris * Love-Centered Parenting: The No-Fail Guide to Launching Your Kids by Crystal Paine * 10 Days to Be a Happier Mom * Sign up for the Hot Deals Email List * MoneySavingMom.com * My Instagram account (I’d love for you to follow me there! I usually hop on at least a few times per day and share behind-the-scenes photos and videos, my grocery store hauls, funny stories, or just anything I’m pondering or would like your advice or feedback on!) * Have feedback on the show or suggestions for future episodes or topics?* Send me an email: crystal @ moneysavingmom.com
The post 209. Hope For When Motherhood is Really Hard (with Katie Faris) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Jesse and I are talking about slack parenting this week. This term might seem a bit scary to you, but hear us out because it’s not what it sounds like!
Listen in as I talk about Alli Worthington’s upcoming book Remaining You While Raising Them which is what inspired this topic. Alli talks about the overparenting that many women feel pressured to do, hovering over their children constantly and giving them very little opportunity to learn and grow on their own. It’s not actually a completely hands-off approach but rather an opportunity to focus on what she calls the “majors” rather than the “minors.”
We oftentimes don’t realize how capable kids actually are and how much overwhelming stress could potentially be alleviated by letting go just a little bit, giving us more room to lean in and love them. Not everything needs to be micromanaged.
In This Episode
[01:35] – We are talking about slacker parenting today.
[02:38] – We just got back from a camping trip!
[05:23] – Jesse learned that kids often like to sleep in the cold.
[06:25] – Our girls went to prom, as did we!
[08:29] – I have been back on the reading train.
[11:47] – I am almost done listening to The Book Woman’s Daughter.
[13:59] – Jesse is looking forward to the book The Watchmaker’s Daughter.
[16:52] – Iron in a Bottle has been saving my life!
[20:23] – Mamava pods has also been saving my life.
[23:53] – What inspired the topic of slacker parenting?
[26:19] – Hear an example of how we practice slacker parenting.
[28:31] – Kids are a lot more capable than we give them credit for.
[31:00] – Jesse emphasizes that kids will even ask to help at times.
[32:39] – We also try to avoid solving problems for our kids.
[35:06] – It’s also important to teach kids to ask for help rather than expect it.
[38:30] – Slacker parenting is such a gift to your children and to yourself.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Iron in a Bottle
Mamava Pods
Books
The Book Woman’s Daughter: A Novel by Kim Michele Richardson
The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek: A Novel by Kim Michele Richardson
The Watchmaker’s Daughter: The True Story of World War II Heroine Corrie ten Boom by Larry Loftis
Into the Lion’s Mouth: The True Story of Dusko Popov: World War II Spy, Patriot, and the Real-Life Inspiration for James Bond by Larry Loftis
Code Name: Lise: The True Story of the Woman Who Became WWII’s Most Highly Decorated Spy by Larry Loftis
The Princess Spy: The True Story of World War II Spy Aline Griffith, Countess of Romanones by Larry Loftis
Remaining You While Raising Them: The Secret Art of Confident Motherhood by Alli Worthington
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 208. Slacker Parenting (AKA How to spend less time micromanaging and more time enjoying your kids) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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I am so honored to have Anne Neilson on today’s show! Anne has a brand new book out titled The Brushstrokes of Life: Discovering How God Brings Beauty and Purpose to Your Story, and she joins me today to discuss her life such as her general background, her family, how her childhood was a bit difficult and rocky, how she became interested in art, and more.
Anne is very candid about how she spent a good portion of her life feeling unworthy of pursuing her dreams and touches upon how she has worked to overcome that, giving really inspirational advice to any listeners who might be struggling with something similar. She also offers up some beautiful examples of how God has been a source of guiding light for her.
If you have a passion in your heart and a calling to do something creative such as painting but struggle with feeling like you aren’t good enough to pursue it, like you don’t have what it takes, then this conversation with Anne Neilson is for you! Be sure to also check out The Brushstrokes of Life to dive even deeper into Anne’s story!
In This Episode
[00:35] – Today’s guest is Anne Neilson!
[01:33] – Anne shares some background information about herself with us.
[02:47] – Anne discusses how she got interested in art.
[04:02] – Learn about some difficulties during Anne’s childhood.
[06:07] – Anne’s ability to be creative as a child was a bit stifled.
[07:34] – Hear about Anne’s life in her twenties.
[10:04] – How has Anne worked to overcome feeling unworthy?
[12:23] – Anne gives advice to anyone who is afraid to pursue a dream.
[14:23] – Anne takes us back to when she turned thirty.
[17:33] – Anne still has to surrender regularly.
[18:57] – What does being still look like to Anne?
[21:45] – Hear Anne read a quote from the first chapter of her book.
[22:51] – Anne encourages us that we are never too broken.
[26:23] – How has God been a guiding light in Anne’s life?
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
The Brushstrokes of Life: Discovering How God Brings Beauty and Purpose to Your Story by Anne Neilson
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 207. How God Brings Beauty & Purpose to Your Story (with Anne Neilson) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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I have been getting a lot of questions lately asking for advice on how to get your spouse on board with your budget plan and/or how to get them to stop spending too much money, so we decided to address that on the podcast today.
I share some of the questions and comments that listeners have sent in and offer some advice, such as implementing what I call the three C-O-Ms – (1) compassion, (2) communication, and (3) compromise.
When it comes to getting your spouse on board with an idea of yours, such as wanting them to be on the same budget plan as you, the idea should not actually be to get them onto your board but rather to create a whole new board together that you stand on together.
At the end of the day, you can only truly change yourself. You can’t entirely change someone else, and that’s part of the reason why doing things together is so important. I hope that this discussion is helpful to you!
In This Episode
[00:35] – Discover that today’s topic is how to get your spouse on your budget.
[01:49] – Kaitlynn has been learning to drive!
[06:11] – I have been doing a series on Instagram about what I am loving on Wednesdays.
[10:10] – I am reading Every Woman a Theologian by Phylicia Masonheimer.
[12:26] – Jesse just finished reading Leadership as an Identity by Crawford Loritts.
[13:30] – I am on day 11 of 75 Hard!
[14:31] – Learn how I have modified 75 Hard for my own needs and limitations.
[18:02] – Jesse argues that looking at food as fuel requires a mindset shift.
[19:10] – I move into talking about how to get your spouse on board with your idea.
[21:27] – I discuss the importance of compassion in a marriage.
[23:09] – Hear me give an example of how I struggled with listening.
[24:57] – I address why communication is essential.
[27:30] – My third point is compromise.
[30:36] – Jesse argues that the key word of this whole episode is together.
[32:59] – The only person you can truly change is yourself.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
Every Woman a Theologian by Phylicia Masonheimer
Leadership as an Identity by Crawford W. Loritts
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 206. How Do I Get My Spouse to Change Their Mind? appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Today’s guest has deeply impacted my life, so it is such an honor having her on the show. Katie Davis Majors’ book Kisses from Katie truly changed my life when I read it, and she now has a brand new book out, Safe All Along.
Katie touches upon various things such as how she came to establish her nonprofit organization Amazima Ministries, how she has struggled with anxiety, how she came up with the idea for Safe All Along, how she navigates the fear around entrusting her children with God especially after the recent Nashville shooting, and so much more!
Katie also gives some helpful advice on how to find time during your day to devote to God and be with Him, and I am so thankful for Katie coming onto the podcast to share her story and her wisdom. Be sure to check out Safe All Along!
In This Episode
[00:35] – Today’s guest has deeply impacted my life.
[01:49] – Katie shares some background information about herself and her family.
[06:00] – Katie and I discuss what Safe All Along is about.
[07:34] – Learn about Katie’s journey struggling with anxiety.
[10:33] – Katie explains how the idea for Safe All Along came about.
[14:43] – The hardest thing that Katie has to trust God with is her children.
[17:48] – Katie has learned to replace fear with trust in God.
[20:28] – Katie emphasizes that her process is not a magical fix-all.
[21:41] – Katie walks us through her process of interrupting her anxious thoughts.
[22:50] – Katie has gotten into the habit of asking God questions.
[27:04] – How does Katie find time to read scripture and be with God?
[29:24] – Katie encourages us to consistently set aside time every day for God.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Amazima Ministries
Books
Kisses from Katie: A Story of Relentless Love and Redemption by Katie Davis Majors
Safe All Along: Trading Our Fears and Anxieties for God’s Unshakable Peace by Katie Davis Majors
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 205. Trading Fear & Anxiety for Unshakeable Peace (with Katie Davis Majors) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Today’s episode is a very informal one, as we are just taking some time to chat with you about the recent big updates in the Paine family because there has been a lot of them!
We had a very big day recently – the day of my book launch! It was such a big day, though, not only because it was book launch day but also because of all of the crazy stuff that happened! Tune is as we share our many adventures from that day, from a flat tire to an excruciatingly painful urgent care experience.
We talk about Jesse’s success with the 75 Hard program, and we also reveal what college Kathrynne has chosen to attend and why!
In This Episode
[00:35] – Today’s episode is sharing some updates.
[01:44] – Hear about Jesse’s flat tire the day of my book launch.
[06:15] – I talk about the infection I had that day.
[09:54] – I reveal what happened when I went to urgent care.
[14:44] – Hear the funny story of my mom taking me to a medical procedure.
[16:27] – Jesse has been working on 75 Hard.
[19:20] – We shift the conversation to college.
[22:22] – I reveal what Kathrynn learned from applying to colleges.
[23:34] – Kathrynn was accepted into all 11 schools to which she applied.
[26:55] – Kathrynn applied before doing physical college visits.
[28:56] – Hear why Kathrynn has decided not to live on campus.
[30:39] – Discover what college Kathrynn has chosen to attend for her first year.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Crystal Paine Show – 181. What is Kathrynne doing after high school?
Books
The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most by Crystal Paine
The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most by Crystal Paine (Buy via Baker Publishing Group)
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 204. Kathrynne’s College Decision (+ a funny story!) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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This is a very special episode today because my two oldest daughters Kathrynne and Kaitlynn (18 and 15 respectively) return to the podcast to talk all about a recent trip to Europe, specifically London and Amsterdam! They share why they went on this trip and what the highlights of the London trip were, including seeing Big Ben, stage productions of Newsies and Mouse Trap, a soccer game, and so much more!
They also elaborate upon their couple of days in Amsterdam and how beautiful it was, how good the food was, and various things that they got to do and see such as visit the Anne Frank house and do a canal tour. This was such a great, character-building experience for them, and they also touch upon what they learned from the trip. They absolutely adored Amsterdam especially and hope to go again one day!
In This Episode
[00:35] – My two oldest daughters Kathrynne and Kaitlynn are on the show today!
[01:28] – Why Kathrynne and Kaitlynn went on a trip to London.
[04:18] – Did Kathrynne immediately want to go to London?
[05:17] – What were a few of the highlights of the trip?
[09:24] – Kaitlynn and Kathrynne describe what food in London was like.
[10:52] – A soccer game was another highlight.
[12:11] – We switch gears to talking about Amsterdam.
[16:42] – Amsterdam was beautiful.
[17:41] – Kaitlynn and Kathrynne agree that the food in Amsterdam was better than London.
[19:58] – What were some of the biggest lessons learned from this trip?
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 203. Kathrynne and Kaitlynn share about their trip to London & Amsterdam appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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I am so honored to have today’s guest on the podcast. Laura Wifler is the author of the new children’s book titled Like Me: A Story About Disability and Discovering God’s Image in Every Person and is also the Executive Director of Risen Motherhood, a nonprofit organization that helps mothers connect their faith to their motherhood.
Laura talks today about her new book and also gives some very helpful advice to parents of children with disabilities and/or children who are curious about children with disabilities, giving great pointers about how to behave and what to say when your child asks questions about children they perceive as different.
She also gives some great insight into how to connect your faith to being the parent of a child (or children) with disabilities. It is so important that we teach our children how to extend love to others regardless of disabilities and to recognize sameness. Laura offers so many powerful words, and I am so grateful that I was able to have this amazing conversation with her.
In This Episode
[01:09] – Laura Wifler is today’s guest!
[01:43] – Laura tells us a little about herself and her family.
[02:48] – How long has Risen Motherhood existed?
[03:24] – Laura discusses what inspired her new book Like Me.
[07:31] – Laura gives advice on how to engage with people with disabilities.
[10:36] – How do you approach children who stare at children with disabilities?
[12:50] – Laura reminds us that life isn’t always about our own comfort levels.
[16:08] – Hear some examples of questions that Laura often gets.
[17:55] – Laura reveals how she gets through difficult days.
[19:48] – Laura reflects on how her children without disabilities have behaved.
[21:34] – Laura discusses how she has overcome wondering how God could allow disabilities.
[25:02] – We are reminded that success is not measured by abilities.
[29:43] – Science indicates that only one thing in common is needed to build a friendship.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Risen Motherhood
Risen Motherhood – Instagram Page
Risen Motherhood Podcast
Books
Like Me: A Story About Disability and Discovering God’s Image in Every Person by Laura Wifler
Risen Motherhood: Gospel Hope for Everyday Moments by Laura Wifler & Emily Jensen
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 202. Disability and Discovering God’s Image in Every Person (with Laura Wifler) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Today is the big day – the release of my new book, The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most! We are therefore switching things up a little as Jesse interviews me!! Tune in as Jesse asks me about the book!
I touch upon what makes my book unique (given that there are so many books out there on time management), what tools and resources are in the book, how it changed and developed over time, and so much more. I also, as promised last week, read more of the introduction from the book.
It is my hope that this book helps readers live their best possible lives, lives that they truly enjoy living. Please be sure to pick up a copy if you haven’t already!
In This Episode
[00:33] – Jesse is interviewing me about my new book!
[02:34] – Learn why I initially resisted writing this book.
[04:17] – Did I learn anything from writing this book?
[08:16] – The last chapter of the book is one I never expected to write.
[10:22] – I explain why I pushed to not have a word count.
[12:12] – I describe the book’s appendix.
[13:39] – What was most surprising about writing the book and its aftermath?
[16:55] – The way you look at saving time is important.
[19:38] – I reveal my main goal behind writing the book.
[22:00] – I read more of the introduction of the book.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most by Crystal Paine
The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most by Crystal Paine (Buy via Baker Publishing Group)
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 201. It’s Launch Day! Why I wrote The Time-Saving Mom appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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We, as a family, have decided to no longer foster, so we are spending the 200th episode of the podcast to talk about that decision and why we made it. We have learned that while our hands are always open, they are sometimes full, and we therefore sometimes have to say no.
Because of everything that we are juggling right now – including two of our children approaching graduation time, one of them just having entered adolescence, and three little ones that still need a lot of attention – we decided that this was the smartest move.
DCS also has a real need right now for families to take large groups of siblings which is something that our family just isn’t currently equipped for. This all leads to the introduction to my new book The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most which I read out loud on the podcast! Tune back in next week when I will share another snippet from the book!
In This Episode
[00:36] – We are sharing why we have decided not to foster anymore.
[02:23] – What has been saving my life lately?
[07:57] – We start to explain why we are no longer fostering.
[10:32] – Two of our daughters will soon be graduating.
[11:50] – Our three little ones need a lot right now.
[14:45] – Our family is currently not equipped to meet DCS’s needs.
[17:25] – Jesse points out that there is still a need but that it doesn’t have to be us.
[19:15] – Us saying no allows someone else to say yes.
[20:53] – I segue into my new book.
[21:51] – I read the introduction from my book.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most by Crystal Paine
The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most by Crystal Paine (Buy via Baker Publishing Group)
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 200. Why We Stopped Fostering appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Today’s guest is the author of a book that I think we all need, Raising Amazing: Bringing Up Kids Who Love God, Like Their Family, and Do the Dishes Without Being Asked. Monica Swanson is here to discuss what went into writing not only this book but also her book Boy Mom as well as how she has fostered in her kids friendship with each other, love for God, and a sense of responsibility.
She also gives some helpful advice such as how to motivate kids who are failing in school, how to be an effective parent while also taking care of yourself and your marriage, how to maintain a loving relationship with teenagers who are quickly approaching adulthood, and so much more!
I am so appreciative of Monica not only for writing her book but also for her time talking on the podcast with me. Like I said, this is a book that we all need, so be sure to pick up a copy!
In This Episode
[00:46] – Today’s guest is Monica Swanson, author of Raising Amazing.
[01:27] – Monica gives us a rundown of who she is.
[02:33] – Learn about what went into writing Raising Amazing.
[04:15] – How did Monica encourage her sons to be friends?
[05:25] – Monica touches upon how she has shared her love for God with her kids.
[06:35] – Where did the part of the book title about doing dishes come from?
[08:45] – How does Monica first and foremost focus on who her kids are?
[11:29] – What does all-in parenting mean practically?
[12:59] – Monica gives advice to moms with unmotivated children.
[14:26] – Monica discusses boundaries.
[16:45] – What if kids don’t respond well to boundaries being set?
[18:34] – How can we parent without making our kids our entire identity?
[20:46] – All-in parenting isn’t getting our self-worth from our kids’ successes.
[22:59] – All-in parenting is not a formula isn’t for raising perfect kids.
[26:15] – Monica touches upon the importance of nurturing your marriage.
[27:44] – How does Monica instill fun in her home?
[29:13] – Monica offers insight into having kids on the cusp of adulthood.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
Raising Amazing: Bringing Up Kids Who Love God, Like Their Family, and Do the Dishes Without Being Asked by Monica Swanson
Boy Mom: What Your Son Needs Most from You by Monica Swanson and Wendy Speake
Love-Centered Parenting: The No-Fail Guide to Launching Your Kids by Crystal Paine
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 199. Raising Amazing Kids (with Monica Swanson) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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I am so excited about today’s guest, especially because of how much she and I have in common. Author of Mind Your Mindset: The Science That Shows Success Starts with Your Thinking (which she co-authored with her father Michael Hyatt) as well as C.E.O. of Full Focus(also co-owned with her father), Megan Hyatt Miller joins me today!
She talks about how she got into her business, what it’s like working with her dad and what went into writing her book. The book is in large part about how there are these stories that we tell ourselves until we believe that they’re true, false narratives about ourselves that do nothing but hold us back. She discusses her own story and how to stop listening to your story, how to help our kids (especially teenagers) manage their mindsets, and so much more!
Megan also walks us through the three main steps of how to mind your mindset, including (1) identify the story, (2) interrogate the story, and (3) imagine a new story, explaining how each step works. This is so helpful and practical and is all in Megan’s book, so be sure to check it out!
In This Episode
[00:35] – I am excited about today’s guest, Megan Hyatt Miller!
[01:52] – How long has Megan worked with her father?
[03:33] – Hear some background information about Megan.
[04:37] – What was Megan doing when she first started working with her father?
[06:57] – Megan emphasizes the importance of partnership.
[07:43] – I shift the conversation toward Megan’s book.
[11:53] – How did Megan identify her false narrative around public speaking?
[13:16] – How do people identify their false narratives?
[17:12] – Megan touches upon how we can help teenagers mind their mindsets.
[20:50] – I sum up Megan’s three-step process for minding your mindset.
[21:33] – How do people get from realizing that something isn’t working to identifying their story?
[26:49] – Megan addresses interrogating your story with someone else.
[29:46] – Megan explains how to imagine a new story.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Full Focus
Books
Mind Your Mindset: The Science That Shows Success Starts with Your Thinking by Michael Hyatt and Megan Hyatt Miller
Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! by Mo Willems
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 198. How to Identify What’s Keeping Us Stuck (with Megan Hyatt Miller) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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We had a big milestone happen recently – not only have we been married for twenty years, but we are also now the proud parents of an adult! Join us today as we discuss our perspective of being parents of children, teenagers, and an adult and how fast we have realized time goes.
We share some of the biggest lessons that we have learned over eighteen years of parenting (some of which is really constant learning), including but not limited to my wish that I had worked less and been more present. We both have realized that we need to slow down and savor even small moments. I also open up about mistakes that I feel that I’ve made, including trying to fix my kids and mold them into who I thought they should be rather than just walk with them.
What’s most important is that we walk with our kids and love them well, but no one is ever going to do that perfectly and without making mistakes. We hope that this episode helps encourage anyone listening who has made mistakes during their parenting journey that it’s never too late to ask for forgiveness and find redemption.
In This Episode
[00:35] – We are now the parents of an adult!
[02:19] – We are spending today talking about lessons we’ve learned from parenting.
[02:45] – I got a copy of my new book!
[05:49] – I am currently listening to Carnegie’s Maid by Marie Benedict.
[06:55] – Jesse has been reading George Orwell’s Animal Farm.
[08:23] – What has been saving my life recently?
[12:28] – We dive into lessons we’ve learned over the last eighteen years of parenting.
[15:37] – I touch upon fear being a reason that I may have worked too much.
[18:39] – Learn about what happened when I finally stopped chasing numbers.
[21:10] – Jesse realizes there is a lot he doesn’t remember when our bigger ones were small.
[25:03] – I wish that I would have cared less about what others thought.
[27:05] – I wish I’d have spent more time walking with my kids rather than trying to “fix” them.
[31:25] – There is always still time for redemption.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Clean Angel Multi-Purpose Cleaner and Stain Remover
Books
The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most by Crystal Paine
The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most by Crystal Paine (Buy via Baker Publishing Group)
Carnegie’s Maid by Marie Benedict
Animal Farm by George Orwell
Love-Centered Parenting: The No-Fail Guide to Launching Your Kids by Crystal Paine
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 197. 4 Things We’ve Learned After 18 Years of Parenting appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Today’s guest Toni Collier is the founder of Broken Crayons and is also the author of the new book Brave Enough to Be Broken: How to Embrace Your Pain and Discover Hope and Healing. Toni shares her journey, discussing how her life took a turn for the worse when she was a child. She defines what brokenness means to her and how that led to her getting counseling and seeking change.
Toni discusses her belief in the importance of hope, arguing that it’s not pain that causes the most damage to us but rather hopelessness. She emphasizes that, even though she found redemption and love, her journey toward a happier, healthier life did not happen overnight and was a real struggle that involved a great deal of roadmapping and anxiety.
Her book also has some practical things at the back, including gratitude practices, and she emphasizes the importance of practicing gratitude, how to get out of a toxic and difficult situation when we feel trapped in it, why building a healthy community is crucial, and so much more! This was such an amazing and emotional interview, and I encourage you, especially if you enjoyed this interview and are struggling to find hope and healing in your life, to purchase Toni’s book!
In This Episode
[00:35] – This was today’s guest’s second attempt to be on the show!
[02:16] – Toni tells us a little bit about herself.
[03:24] – What does brokenness mean and look like to Toni?
[05:49] – Toni had to become more self-aware to realize why she was being abused.
[07:37] – From where did Toni find hope?
[09:01] – How does one go about embracing pain?
[10:28] – I point to a specific quote from Toni’s book about trauma leakage.
[12:49] – Toni reveals how she had the courage to step into a second marriage.
[15:29] – Healing is not linear and is very painful, Toni asserts.
[18:14] – Fear can either lead us to wisdom or cause us to hide, Toni argues.
[20:02] – Toni emphasizes counseling, reading
[21:30] – Learn why Toni included gratitude practices in her book.
[23:40] – It’s very difficult to heal in the place and with the people that broke you in the first place.
[26:53] – Toni points out that pain and hope can coexist.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Toni Collier
Books
Brave Enough to Be Broken: How to Embrace Your Pain and Discover Hope and Healing by Toni Collier
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 196. Discovering Hope & Healing After Brokenness (with Toni Collier) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Michele Cushatt returns to the podcast today to talk about something that we didn’t get to dive into last time – her personal story and journey! Michele has a brand new book coming out in March called A Faith That Will Not Fail: 10 Practices to Build Up Your Faith When Your World Is Falling Apart, and if anyone knows what it’s like for your world to fall apart, it’s definitely Michele.
Michele dives into her journey and talks about all of the devastating loss that she has endured throughout her life. She describes her life over the last three decades as being “riddled with suffering” which includes cancer repeatedly coming back.
She touches upon the importance of lament and why grief is an important part of healing, why we need to anchor ourselves to something static other than the outcome, the importance of forgiveness and how refusing to hurts only ourselves, and so much more. Please be sure to preorder Michele’s book if you want to know more!
In This Episode
[00:35] – Michele Cushatt returns to the show today!
[01:17] – Michele has a new book coming out!
[01:37] – Hear some snippets of how Michele’s world fell apart.
[05:43] – Michele describes her life over the last three decades.
[06:43] – What does the word lament mean to Michele?
[08:23] – Michele reveals what lamenting looked like when she got diagnosed with cancer.
[10:18] – Grieving is the necessary first step to new living.
[10:36] – How do we avoid getting stuck in grief?
[13:32] – Michele discusses how she conquers fear.
[15:40] – How do we anchor ourselves to something other than the outcome?
[18:35] – Overwhelming suffering can lead to panic.
[19:42] – Michele shares what forgiveness has looked like in her life.
[21:39] – Forgiveness always comes at a cost.
[22:16] – How do people learn to forgive when they don’t want to?
[24:02] – Michele explains how she goes into the next day knowing it will be hard.
[26:27] – I point to a quote that I love from Michele’s book.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
The Crystal Paine Show – 187. Loving Someone Well Even When We Disagree (with Michele Cushatt)
Books
A Faith That Will Not Fail: 10 Practices to Build Up Your Faith When Your World Is Falling Apart by Michele Cushatt
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 195. A Faith That Will Not Fail (with Michele Cushatt) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Jesse and I celebrated a milestone anniversary recently – twenty years of marriage! In some ways, it feels like it hasn’t been that long, and in other ways, it feels like we have been married even longer than that, and we thought that we spend today discussing the biggest lessons that we have learned over the past two decades.
The lessons that I have personally learned over the last twenty years being married to Jesse include but are not limited to saying I love you often, making each other laugh, flirting every day, expressing gratitude, and more.
Marriage isn’t always easy. It can sometimes feel like too much work, but it’s so worth the work, and I hope that this discussion of my biggest lessons are helpful to you. Be sure to preorder my new book The Time-Saving Mom from the Baker Publishing Group since that is where you will get the greatest deal on it!
In This Episode
[00:35] – We recently celebrated a milestone anniversary.
[01:56] – We are sharing lessons we’ve learned in twenty years of marriage.
[02:22] – I encourage you to not believe everything that you dream.
[04:09] – I just finished listening to the audiobook The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek.
[06:49] – There is a sequel to that book as well.
[08:09] – What’s saving my life this week?
[09:40] – I encourage you to preorder my new book coming out on March 7th.
[11:33] – Baker Publishing Group is offering the best deal on my new book.
[13:14] – I have learned to tell Jesse that I love him often.
[15:43] – Jesse defines love as commitment, action, and feeling.
[16:00] – We have learned to go out of our ways to make each other laugh.
[16:59] – Give your spouse time to do things that they love.
[19:57] – I offer an example of something that Jesse loves to do.
[20:36] – We flirt every day.
[22:44] – Be cognizant of the good, and be grateful.
[23:44] – I assert that a strong marriage doesn’t just happen on its own.
[26:37] – I argue that any kind of relationship requires work and sacrifice.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson
The Book Woman’s Daughter by Kim Michele Richardson
The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most by Crystal Paine
The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most by Crystal Paine (Buy via Baker Publishing Group)
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 194. 6 Lessons We’ve Learned from 20 Years of Marriage appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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As promised in last week’s episode, we are giving more detail today about the newest addition to our family whom, after being with us for 21 months, we have finally adopted!
We have been referring to him as Baby D on social media and on the podcast, but we are now finally able to reveal that his name is David, and we touch upon the Biblical significance of his name and how it coincidentally (given that we didn’t name him) follows our pattern of boys’ names.
We didn’t go into foster care with adoption as the goal. Our goal for David, for example, was family reunification, but we share the story of the road that led to adoption. Although we are sad that reunification was ultimately not an option, we feel so blessed and grateful to have David as part of our family. Be sure to check out my Instagram page if you want to see pictures from the ceremony!
In This Episode
[00:35] – I reveal today’s topic to be the recent adoption ceremony.
[01:15] – Jesse reveals Baby D’s name.
[03:11] – Hear how his name follows our predetermined pattern of boys’ names.
[05:19] – Jesse shares how he felt about adoption day.
[07:15] – We never sought this; we went into foster care knowing that adoption isn’t the goal.
[10:10] – David requires complex and unique care.
[12:21] – David’s biological mother always assumed that we were going to adopt him.
[14:58] – Jesse explains why we maintained David’s middle name.
[16:40] – We shift the conversation toward the adoption ceremony.
[19:26] – Hear about the actual adoption itself.
[20:46] – I touch upon one of the most special moments of the adoption process.
[23:42] – Knowing that David is our son still feels surreal.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 193. The Long-Awaited Adoption Day (all the details)! appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Welcome to the very first episode of 2023! As a way of ushering in the new year, we thought that it would be appropriate to share our goals for 2023!
My new book The Time-Saving Mom is coming out in March, and I also have six children, all of which is already a lot, so I have gone about setting realistic and specific goals for 2023 in a way that is challenging me but not overwhelming me. I also want to be sure that my goals all correlate with my values and what I want to be able to accomplish by the end of my life.
We hope that you will listen in as Jesse and I share our goals for the new year, including but not limited to being overall physically healthier, having one family dinner per week, finishing reading or listening to one book per week, and setting aside time for a date with at least one family member per week. We also hope that you will tune in next week as we expand upon a very exciting announcement!
In This Episode
[00:35] – This is the first episode of 2023!
[02:17] – Does Jesse get excited about the start of a new year like I do?
[03:32] – We share an exciting announcement!
[06:00] – Hear why I am prioritizing sleep.
[08:37] – I share my first goal for 2023.
[10:41] – I explain why I want to lose body fat in 2023.
[13:13] – I have been sure to drink a lot of water and get a healthy amount of sleep.
[15:08] – Jesse wants to be more consistent with fitness.
[16:12] – Hear what my second goal for 2023 is!
[18:37] – I reveal goal #3.
[20:09] – I share my fourth goal for 2023.
[22:01] – I reveal and explain my fifth goal.
[24:33] – I want to delete 300 photos from my phone each week.
[27:37] – Jesse touches upon the importance of being effective and intentional.
[29:14] – Learn about my habit tracking system.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
WYZE Body Fat Scale
Money Saving Mom – “My Daily Habit Tracker Checklist (Plus Download Yours!)”
Books
The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most by Crystal Paine
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 192. Our Goals for 2023 appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Welcome to the very last episode of the podcast before we move into 2023! It has been a really crazy 2022, so we are spending this episode taking a look back at 2022, reflecting on the big events of the year such as having finished my book and having been pregnant with and giving birth to Micah.
We talk about how we have two teenagers who are preparing for college, how this year has provided a lot of opportunities for me to talk about foster care, what challenges we have faced this year, and so, so much more!
You will also want to stay tuned to the end of the podcast for an exciting announcement that is, for the time being, completely exclusive to this podcast! You’re hearing it here first!
In This Episode
[00:33] – This is the last episode of 2022!
[01:41] – Discover the title of my new book!
[04:51] – Micah has been a blessing from 2022.
[07:06] – This year has not been without its challenges.
[09:29] – We also have kids getting ready to go to college.
[12:18] – Jesse and I have learned to let go this year.
[13:10] – I reflect back on prioritizing community.
[16:37] – I touch upon how we began homeschooling again this year.
[18:27] – We had a kid in a dating relationship for the first time this year.
[21:20] – Listen for an exciting exclusive announcement!
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most by Crystal Paine
Find Your People: Building Deep Community in a Lonely World by Jennie Allen
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 191. Highlights from 2022 + Some BIG News! appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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Today’s guest is Jodi Mockabee, author of the book The Whole and Healthy Family: Helping Your Kids Thrive in Mind, Body, and Spirit! I love how Jodi addresses things holistically and has so much wisdom and experience to bring to the table.
Jodi is the mother of five children ranging from the age of ten to sixteen, and she bases the book on all of that experience that she had, capturing parenting methods that have worked for her as well as ones that haven’t worked so well.
She discusses her childhood and how it impacted her family life now, how to let go as a mom and let your kids be as independent as possible, how to be minimalist and efficient even if you have people in your family who like to hold onto things, what it means for parenting to go through different seasons, the importance of accountability, and so more!
Jodi has so much experience with motherhood and therefore has so much advice and wisdom to share, so I am grateful for her contributing her time to the show and hope that you find it helpful! Be sure to pick up her book, especially since it is set up in a really practical way that makes it easy for busy moms to read!
In This Episode
[00:35] – I introduce today’s guest, Jodi Mockabee!
[01:41] – Jodi shares some information about herself with the audience.
[03:15] – What was Jodi’s childhood like, and how did it impact her family lifestyle now?
[05:26] – Jodi discusses wanting her kids to be as independent as possible.
[07:30] – Jodi gives advice on how to teach your children to be more independent.
[09:15] – Learn about how Jodi makes accommodations for her son on the spectrum.
[11:32] – Jodi elaborates upon how she has made dishes more efficient.
[14:29] – Discover how to strive for efficiency while also addressing children’s needs.
[17:15] – Jodi addresses how to be minimalist with family members who want to keep things.
[20:03] – How has Jodi helped her family moderate their diets?
[22:52] – Hear about one of Jodi’s biggest pet peeves.
[25:51] – I argue that we shouldn’t get hung up on rule-based vs. relationship-based parenting.
[26:24] – How does Jodi address accountability with her kids?
[29:56] – Jodi offers helpful advice to young moms.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
The Whole and Healthy Family: Helping Your Kids Thrive in Mind, Body, and Spirit by Jodi Mockabee
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 190. Helping Kids Thrive in Mind, Body, and Spirit (with Jodi Mockabee) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
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As we are approaching the end of the year and preparing to move into a new one, we thought that talking about beginnings today would be a great topic!
I recently began a new workout time because it felt like it was the right time for it with Micah being five months old. Jesse was very encouraging, reminding me that it’s okay to be a beginner.
That got me thinking about the many things in life that I am now good at but wasn’t always. I, for example, am now a very skilled blogger, but I refined my blogging skills by blogging nearly every single day since 2005 or so. I kept showing up.
Showing up as a beginner can be difficult at first. You just want to jump right to being an expert, but keep showing up as a beginner because there is only one way to go from there – forward, and it can be so worth it, especially since you might even end up becoming an expert!
In This Episode
[00:35] – We are talking about being a beginner today.
[01:10] – We just got back from our trip to Kansas!
[04:18] – Micah does really well on flights.
[05:19] – Hear about how I had an incident involving gum on the flight.
[08:32] – I reveal how I figured out how to get the gum off me.
[10:50] – Did you know that chewing gum can reduce under-chin fat?
[12:51] – I have been listening to Healing Stones by Nancy Rue and Stephen Arterburn.
[15:17] – We dive into talking about being a beginner.
[16:12] – Jesse gives insight into the workout program he discovered for me.
[19:20] – Jesse had encouraged me that it’s okay to be a beginner.
[20:19] – I have been blogging nearly every single day for more than fifteen years.
[23:28] – Being a beginner can be difficult at first.
[25:34] – Keep showing up as a beginner!
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Books
Healing Stones by Nancy Rue and Stephen Arterburn
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
The post 189. It’s Okay to Be a Beginner appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Powered by RedCircle Today’s guest is someone who has been on the show before and in one of my most popular episodes, so when the opportunity came up to have her back on the show one more time, I jumped on it, especially when I saw the title of her new book, Good Boundaries and…
The post 188. Good Boundaries and Goodbyes (with Lysa TerKeurst) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Powered by RedCircle Disagreements and differences in opinion can result in divisions, so how do we love well despite those differences? With this episode being recorded during the week of midterm elections, it maybe couldn’t be happening at a better time, and I am joined today by Michele Cushatt, one of the authors of the…
The post 187. Loving Someone Well Even When We Disagree (with Michele Cushatt) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Powered by RedCircle We took a super quick 28-hour trip to Wilkes-Barre, PA for my friend Jamie’s mom’s funeral a few weeks ago. If you follow me on Instagram, you’ve heard parts of our crazy travel experience, but since it sparked so many conversations and messages online, I thought we should share the whole thing together…
The post 186. Our Crazy Travel Story appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Powered by RedCircle This week’s podcast is a conversation with Douglas McKelvey — a screenwriter, songwriter, and author of several books including Every Moment Holy — a book of prayers for every day life. In this episode I share how Every Moment Holy and the prayers in it have impacted me and I get to…
The post 185. Every Moment Holy (with Douglas McKelvey) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Powered by RedCircle Today’s conversation is with Ruth Chou Simons, artist and author! We talk about her new book Emmanuel: An Invitation to Prepare Him Room at Christmas and Always, but we also talk about several other topics such as preparing our hearts for the holiday season so that it is filled with grace. We…
The post 184. A Life Update + Prepping Our Hearts for Advent (with Ruth Chou Simons) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Powered by RedCircle Author of the brand new book A Love-Stretched Life, Jillana Goble joins me today to talk about her family and the children whom she has fostered, and I am so honored to have her because I appreciate her experience and her heart! She reveals what prompted her interest in foster care, how…
The post 183. A Love-Stretched Life (with Jillana Goble) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
I loved this week’s podcast conversation with Shannan Martin on the topic of building connection in our communities. My favorite quote of the entire episode was, “The only thing you need to practice hospitality is a glass of water.” Meaning: opening up your door and offering a glass of water is really all it takes.…
The post 182. Start with Hello: Simple Ways to Build Community (with Shannan Martin) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
“What is Kathrynne doing after high school?” Jesse and I have been asked this over and over again — and Kathrynne has been asked this even more! These questions sparked today’s conversation — about how easy it is to put pressure on others unknowingly and to spend so much of our lives thinking about, planning…
The post 181. What is Kathrynne doing after high school? appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Today’s topic is one that is very close to my heart because when I was a child, my mom read so many books to me, and to this day, I still remember so many of the stories that she read aloud. Joining me is Jennifer Pepito, author of Mothering by the Book: The Power of…
The post 180. Why You Should Read Aloud with Your Kids (with Jennifer Pepito) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
I thought that it would be fun to sort of turn the tables around a little bit and interview Jesse, who just recently had his forty-second birthday! Jesse has a lot of wisdom to share. Having endured a lot such as his parents getting divorced and losing his mother, he shares some of the biggest…
The post 179. An Interview with Jesse appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
I loved this conversation with Peter Mutabazi — a single foster dad who has such a heart for kids. In this episode, he shares a little about his heartbreaking but also inspiring story of being abused by his dad as a boy and finally making the decision to run away — having no idea where…
The post 178. From Street Kid to Foster Dad (with Peter Mutabazi) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Are you tired or feeling overwhelmed as a mom? In this episode, Rachel Norman shares what she has learned about setting healthy boundaries. Rachel is a mom of five and the author of If Mama Ain’t Happy: Why Minding Healthy Boundaries Is Good for Your Whole Family. As Rachel shared about what boundaries are to her,…
The post 177. Setting Healthy Boundaries for Your Family (with Rachel Norman) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
We received an email from a listener asking for resources to set goals for specific personality types. She is having a difficult time setting goals. What is a goal? How can you select a goal that you are excited about? How can you break it down to make it more manageable? We also have an…
The post 176. An adoption update + how to follow through with your goals appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
“It’s never too late. You can pick up right where you are”. Great advice from today’s guest. I am so excited to be interviewing David Thomas, the author of Raising Emotionally Strong Boys: Tools Your Son Can Build On for Life. There is no greater time to start than right now. Make sure the males…
The post 175. Raising Emotionally Strong Boys (with David Thomas) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Today, we’re going to talk about goal setting for children. We will share some ways that we’ve encouraged our kids to set goals and the thoughts behind how we approach goal setting for our kids. It’s all about the example that you set, how you approach it, and making sure that you’re helping them take…
The post 174. Teaching Your Kids to Set Goals appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
It’s the perfect time to tweak some of the goals you set at the beginning of this year, or maybe revisit ones that you forgot about. Do you need to make some changes or add new ones? I’m excited to add some extra goals, but we’d love to hear from you. What are your goals?…
The post 173. Our Fitness, Family, & Personal Goals for the Fall appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Welcome to the family, our son Micah. Today’s episode is dedicated to Micah’s birth story. This was my easiest birth by far. The time leading up to the birth and afterward was pretty eventful. Jesse and I walk you through the birth of our son Micah, giving you a rundown leading up to birth, the…
The post 172. Micah’s Birth Story appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
This is going to be our last episode before I take maternity leave for June and July. Today we are going to talk about my unexpected hospital stay. I went in for a routine ultrasound, never expecting to be admitted into the hospital, thinking I might be having an emergency c-section. We have been quiet…
The post 171. My Unexpected Stay in the Hospital appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
“Start where you are.” Such a short statement but has such a huge impact. In this episode of The Crystal Paine Show, Bob and Linda Lotich, authors of their new book Simple Money, Rich Life: Achieve True Financial Freedom and Design a Life of Eternal Impact, talk about how they’ve made Sabbath a priority in…
The post 170. Making Sabbath Rest a Priority (with Bob & Linda Lotich) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
I hear from so many moms who ask for suggestions on how to help their teens develop a closer relationship with Jesus. So I’m excited to have Angelia Perritt joining me in the studio for this conversation. She has three daughters and she just released a beautiful new bible called, Young Women Love God Greatly…
The post 169. Helping our teens deepen their relationship with Jesus (with Angela Perritt) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Last week on the podcast, we mentioned our daughters going to prom and how they wanted to go with their dates together. We talked about how their relationship has developed and some of the different seasons they have walked through. A number of people wrote in and asked how our daughters developed such a close…
The post 168. Helping your kids fight less & get along better appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Today’s topic is fresh on my mind because I just turned in the second round of edits for the manuscript of my next book. It comes out in early 2023 and I’m so excited about it! In this episode, we “pull back the curtain” on publishing and share what I’ve learned about writing books, the…
The post 167. How I Found Time to Write a Book appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
I used to be afraid of having teenagers. The thought of raising kids into adulthood felt like such a huge and overwhelming responsibility. I worried I would totally mess things up, miss the mark, and make mistakes. But then Jesus radically transformed my heart. He opened up my eyes to how deeply I am loved…
The post 166. Raising Teens: Answering your burning questions appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
“Home is for learning and not for perfection.” In this week’s must-listen-to podcast episode, Nicole Homan — author of They Call Me Mama — shares lessons she’s learned as the mom of 14 kids. She tells the story of their unexpected journey to growing their family to 16 (14 kids + parents), what it’s really…
The post 165. Wisdom from a mom of 14 (with Nicole Homan) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
I found Nicole Zasowski through her book, What If It’s Wonderful? Release Your Fears, Choose Joy, and Find Courage to Celebrate and it hit me in some really deep places. I didn’t expect a book about celebration would have me uncovering such unexpected things I need to process through in my life. In her book…
The post 164. How to Stop Fearing the Future & Live in Hope Today (with Nicole Zasowski) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
If we could go back and tell our 23-year-old and 24-year-old selves something when we had our first child, what would we say? In this episode, we share some candid thoughts on What We Wish We Had Known Before Having Kids. We discuss how I went into parenting thinking I could control our kids and…
The post 163. What We Wish We Have Known Before Having Kids appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
If there was one question we are asked to answer the most often, it’s likely, something along the lines of, “How do you prioritize your marriage when you have kids?” In this week’s podcast episode, we share some of our best suggestions to make time for romance when you have kids. We share things we…
The post 162. Making Time for Romance When You Have Kids appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
A little over a year ago, we started fostering Baby D. In this episode, Jesse and I reflect on what we have learned and how we have grown this past year — especially as it relates to parenting a child with Down syndrome and special needs. We share things we wish we had known, how…
The post 161. Unexpected Lessons from Down Syndrome appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
“What does your morning routine look like right now?” “How are you able to fit in the 5 things you do every morning?” We got a number of questions and followup responses to the episode we recorded recently on 5 Things I Do Every Morning, so we did a followup episode this week answering your…
The post 160. 5 Things I Do Every Morning (Part 2) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Last night, I was scrolling on my phone and came across the social media account of someone I used to follow years ago. They are in a similar niche as me and back when I followed them, they had a lot fewer followers than me. But in the last few years, their account has clearly…
The post 159. I got caught in the comparison trap! appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Have you noticed how in this modern age of social media, people are so easily hurt, upset, and offended? I know that I’ve fallen prey to knee jerk reactions when scrolling online.
In this episode, Jesse and I talk about this book I’m reading by Brant Hansen called Unoffendable: How Just One Change Can Make All of Life Better. Hansen challenges us to ask the question, “How would it change my life if I chose not to be offended by others?”
Some of you may be thinking, “But how do I even do that? You don’t know what this person has done or said (or not done or not said).” I don’t, but I do know this: We get to choose how we respond. We can’t choose how other people treat us or respond to us or what they say to us or do to us, but we can choose our response.
This doesn’t mean that we let people walk all over us or that we don’t set boundaries, but it does mean that we can choose to either be a victim or a victor. We can choose to either be offended and hurt and upset, or we can acknowledge our feelings, grieve our loss, and choose to forgive.
In this episode, we dive into this topic + we talk about Silas’ recent Science Fair, an early preschool curriculum we started with Kierstyn and are loving, and what’s saving our lives.
In This Episode
[00:34] – Welcome to another episode of The Crystal Paine Show.
[01:03] – Today is the first time we have recorded a podcast — in PJs!
[05:58] – Speaking of PJ’s, we are excited to finally be sleeping through the night again!
[08:07] – But that has come with some crazy dreams for me.
[10:11] – What’s saving our life.
[11:31] – Yesterday we made Oobleck, if you haven’t done that with your kids it is so much fun.
[12:28] – We have been getting a lot of kind feedback from our audience.
[12:54] – I read a couple of notes from our audience.
[15:50] – There are no perfect families, no perfect parents, and no perfect children.
[16:29] – Sponsored Ad: Twigby
[18:46] – Today’s topic is inspired by Brant Hansen’s book, Unoffendable.
[20:47] – Years and years of being on the internet has confirmed this: it’s hard to say anything without offending someone.
[22:41] – I feel like there is some much that we can learn from people on the internet. But it’s so easy for a little thing to turn into a really big thing.
[25:43] – We get to choose how we respond.
[27:58] – It’s okay to acknowledge anger, but it’s what we do with it.
[28:08] – Before rashly reacting, stop… take a breath, and really ask God to help us love others well.
[31:31] – Jesse shares a concept about backing away from an issue when you have an immediate emotional response.
Links & Resources * Books * Unoffendable: How Just One Change Can Make All of Life Better by Brant Hansen * Special Mentions * Homemade Oobleck * My Father’s World, preschool curriculum * Other Links * Love-Centered Parenting * 10 Days to Be a Happier Mom * Sign up for the Hot Deals Email List * MoneySavingMom.com * My Instagram account (I’d love for you to follow me there! I usually hop on at least a few times per day and share behind-the-scenes photos and videos, my grocery store hauls, funny stories, or just anything I’m pondering or would like your advice or feedback on!) * Have feedback on the show or suggestions for future episodes or topics? Send me an email: crystal @ moneysavingmom.com
Sponsor Spotlight: Twigby Do you wish you could pay less for your phone service? Wishing you could figure out how to get access to great service/coverage without having to break the bank?
I highly recommend checking out Twigby!
Twigby is a company dedicated to providing fantastic phone service at great prices and they are the perfect option for budget conscious families because they are so affordable! They also offer great coverage from the nation’s largest and most reliable network (yep — Verizon!) and have many different options for phone plans.
Twigby has plans starting as low as $9 per month for just talk and text. And data plans start as low as $20 per month (with unlimited talk & text)! Even a cell phone plan with unlimited talk and text and 10 GB of data only costs you $35 per month — which is a lot less than you’ll usually pay!
With these kinds of prices, it’s worth checking to see if Twigby might save you money each month on your family cell phone bill — even if you’ve been on a family plan with a provider for a decade!
Get this: The average family that switches to Twigby saves $80 on their cell phone bill, which equates to an annual savings of $960! See how much you could save with Twigby’s handy dandy calculator (click on “compare us” up top!)
Want to give Twigby a try? If so, you’ll currently save 50% off your first six months of phone service! Wow!!
But that’s not all! On top of this already amazing Twigby discount, our readers can also get a $15 credit when you use code FAMILY at checkout during sign-up!
Note: This $15 credit will be applied to your account when you purchase a new phone, get a free SIM card from Twigby with a new service, or bring your own phone to use.
Valid through March 31, 2022.
(And if you’re not completely satisfied within 30 days of activating your service, you’ll get a full refund!)
Go here to get started with Twigby. The post 158. When you feel hurt and offended… appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
I recently shared a little bit about prayer on Instagram in answer to a woman’s question about praying to change her husband. I got so many responses from what I shared and many followup questions, that I wanted to focus this podcast episode on that topic.
First off, I think we often have a false sense of what prayer is. It’s not about bringing our laundry list of things we want changed and fixed to God; it’s about a relationship with Him. It’s about releasing our desire to control and micromanage life and give it to our Heavenly Father and entrusting our struggles and stresses to Him.
Ultimately, prayer isn’t about changing and fixing other people or situations; it’s about changing us. I love this quote by Mark Batterson (above) that I recently read in his book, Win The Day.
In this week’s podcast episode, we dive more into what prayer is, what it looks like, and why your prayers might not be getting answered (or maybe they are, but you just don’t realize it!).
In addition, Jesse and I update you on his anniversary gift that finally arrived, I share two things that are saving my life, we talk about caffeine and teens, and I share about a book I recently finished reading with Kierstyn.
In This Episode
[00:34] – Welcome to another episode of The Crystal Paine Show.
[00:48] – Jesse and I talk about decaf coffee and caffeine… and teens!
[02:34] – I introduce today’s topic: prayer.
[03:03] – The thing that everyone is asking about: did Jesse get his anniversary gift?
[04:05] – I share how peanut butter and jelly is saving my life.
[06:57] – We’re loving the Water Wow books by Melissa and Doug!
[08:31] – I have a book update for the young kids.
[10:54] – This week’s podcast sponsor: Twigby!
[12:48] – Let’s talk about prayer and what inspired this topic.
[13:38] – I don’t believe the purpose of prayer is about changing our circumstances or changing people in our life.
[14:44] – We think of answered prayer as in “we got the thing that we wanted, we got the outcome that we wanted”. But “no” or “wait”, is also an answer.
[15:29] – I read a quote from the book Win the Day by Mark Batterson.
[18:31] – I have really been convicted about how I pray for other people.
[20:00] – Sometimes God doesn’t answer the prayer in the way we want Him to because He has plans for us years and years down the road.
[21:10] – Why are we praying what we’re praying? So often when I pray now, I am not praying for an end result. I am praying for right here and now.
[23:58] – Prayer is one side of a two-sided conversation. View it as a conversation and this can change the way you approach it.
Links & Resources * Books * Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd-Jones * Win The Day by Mark Batterson * Special Mentions * Pun Intended Too! * Water Wow books by Melissa and Doug * Other Links * Love-Centered Parenting * 10 Days to Be a Happier Mom * Sign up for the Hot Deals Email List * MoneySavingMom.com * My Instagram account (I’d love for you to follow me there! I usually hop on at least a few times per day and share behind-the-scenes photos and videos, my grocery store hauls, funny stories, or just anything I’m pondering or would like your advice or feedback on!) * Have feedback on the show or suggestions for future episodes or topics? Send me an email: crystal @ moneysavingmom.com
Sponsor Spotlight: Twigby Do you wish you could pay less for your phone service? Wishing you could figure out how to get access to great service/coverage without having to break the bank?
I highly recommend checking out Twigby!
Twigby is a company dedicated to providing fantastic phone service at great prices and they are the perfect option for budget conscious families because they are so affordable! They also offer great coverage from the nation’s largest and most reliable network (yep — Verizon!) and have many different options for phone plans.
Twigby has plans starting as low as $9 per month for just talk and text. And data plans start as low as $20 per month (with unlimited talk & text)! Even a cell phone plan with unlimited talk and text and 10 GB of data only costs you $35 per month — which is a lot less than you’ll usually pay!
With these kinds of prices, it’s worth checking to see if Twigby might save you money each month on your family cell phone bill — even if you’ve been on a family plan with a provider for a decade!
Get this: The average family that switches to Twigby saves $80 on their cell phone bill, which equates to an annual savings of $960! See how much you could save with Twigby’s handy dandy calculator (click on “compare us” up top!)
Want to give Twigby a try? If so, you’ll currently save 50% off your first six months of phone service! Wow!!
But that’s not all! On top of this already amazing Twigby discount, our readers can also get a $15 credit when you use code FAMILY at checkout during sign-up!
Note: This $15 credit will be applied to your account when you purchase a new phone, get a free SIM card from Twigby with a new service, or bring your own phone to use.
Valid through March 31, 2022.
(And if you’re not completely satisfied within 30 days of activating your service, you’ll get a full refund!)
Go here to get started with Twigby. The post 157. Why Your Prayers Might Not Be Answered appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
There are many sides to foster care that people don’t see or understand. Today with Jamie Finn we talk about the good and bad sides of foster care. We talk about viewing foster care from a gospel centered perspective.
If your heart is calling out to be involved and help with your community, Jamie provides ways for you to be able to support. She also shares that if you don’t feel like foster care is the right place for you, there are other ways of helping out through your church and community.
Either route you want to explore, one of the best ways to determine if it is for you and your family is intentional proximity. Start with your church, look at organizations in your community. A little support can go a long way. Jamie explains that you have to get out of the savior mindset and understand that these kids do have families and with their current situation they just need some help.
In This Episode
[00:34] – Welcome to another episode of The Crystal Paine Show. I am honored to have Jamie Finn in the studio today.
[02:37] – Before we get started, I’d love for you to just take a minute to introduce yourself to my audience.
[04:13] – I really appreciate that you don’t sugar coat things. You share the beautiful and the brutal.
[05:35] – Do you feel like you have had a shift in your viewpoint of what foster care is?
[07:54] – I hear from many people, “well we’re interested in foster care but we’re afraid of how it will affect our family.” Have you ever had those feelings?
[09:39] – How do you respond when someone’s like, “I can never do this but that’s amazing what you’re doing”?
[12:08] – How do you even know when to take that first step?
[14:28] – What can we practically do? Where do we start?
[16:07] – Jamie found opportunities in her community to support.
[19:47] – Could you talk about just some of the really hard things that you have walked through?
[22:56] – If you could go back 8+ years as a brand new foster parent and talk to that woman, what would you say to her?
[25:41] – What is foster care from a gospel center perspective?
[26:41] – I share what I love and recommend Jamie Finn’s new book, Foster the Family.
[28:56] – What do you say to that person who feels like, “is God still good, even when this feels so hard”?
Links & ResourcesCrystal Paine
Books
Foster the Family by Jamie Finn
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
Foster the Family Blog
Foster the Family on Instagram
Foster the Family on Facebook
The post 156. A Different Perspective on Foster Care (with Jamie Finn) appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
One of the kids woke up really frustrated recently. In all honesty, I wanted to respond back in frustration… because it felt like a really “silly” thing for them to be upset by.
But if I’ve learned anything in over 17 years of mothering, it’s this: responding in frustrating to a child who is frustrated never ends well. Just trust me on this.
So instead, I took a deep breath, leaned on the Holy Spirit, and asked them to share what was wrong.
They had a lot to vent out right then & I purposely just listened. I wanted to try to come up with some quick fixes or solutions, but I could tell that’s not what they needed. They just needed a listening ear that said: “I care. You are valued. What matters to you, matters to me.”
After they had poured out their big feelings, I asked how I could help. There wasn’t much I could do, but I could tell that just that simple question brought some relief to them. It communicated that they weren’t alone. That I was with them. That they didn’t have to shoulder this all on their own.
And then I asked them what they could do about it. Instead of me trying to swoop in and fix things, I wanted to let them process through what they were feeling and come up with next steps.
We didn’t tie everything up with a neat bow, but my posture of leaning in and loving and seeking to walk beside de-escalated the situation so that by the time they walked out the door to leave for school, they were feeling much calmer and less stressed.
Mamas: we set the tone for our home. We can’t fix all our kids’ struggles. We can’t solve all our kids’ problems, but we can walk with them. We can communicate to them, “I’m here. I love you. I’m FOR you. And I’m not going anywhere.”
There might need to be some hard conversations or consequences or addressing heart issues in days to come — after a child/teen is in a better headspace — but in the moment when our kids are feeling overwhelmed & frustrated, they just need to know we are there. They don’t need our lectures; they just need our presence.
“What’s wrong?” “How can I help?” These two questions and the willingness to listen well can make a huge difference in our relationship with our kids.
In this episode, Jesse and I share more about how to respond when our kids (or anyone in our life!) is frustrated. Plus, I share a crazy travel story from my recent trip, and we talk about books and reading.
In This Episode [00:34] – Welcome to another episode of The Crystal Paine Show.
[01:15] – What to do when your child is frustrated.
[02:00] – I have a travel “horror” story to share today.
[04:02] – While I was stuck in Charlotte for four hours, my phone was starting to run out of battery.
[07:46] – Word to the wise: if there is wet carpet in the airport don’t assume that it’s water spilled.
[08:41] – What I recently finished listening to.
[09:57] – A letter from a listener about Jesse’s advice on reading.
[12:05] – Are you making progress over who you were yesterday?
[12:35] – Jesse shares his book update.
[13:49] – How to help a child who is frustrated…
[16:02] – Ever been frustrated at someone for being frustrated (oh! the irony!)
[17:52] – Instead, stepping back and asking for God’s help
[19:13] – Question #1: “What is wrong?”
[21:23] – Question #2: “How can I help you?”
[22:39] – Question #3: “What can you do about it?”
[23:53] – Practice the art of asking questions versus telling someone how they should feel or respond.
Links & Resources * Books * The Masterpiece by Francine Rivers * Other Links * Love-Centered Parenting * 10 Days to Be a Happier Mom * Sign up for the Hot Deals Email List * MoneySavingMom.com * My Instagram account (I’d love for you to follow me there! I usually hop on at least a few times per day and share behind-the-scenes photos and videos, my grocery store hauls, funny stories, or just anything I’m pondering or would like your advice or feedback on!) * Have feedback on the show or suggestions for future episodes or topics? Send me an email: crystal @ moneysavingmom.com
The post 155. 3 Questions to Ask When Your Child is Frustrated appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
What is one thing you do every morning to start your day well? How you begin your days sets up the foundation for how you live your life.
Here are 5 things I do every morning to start my day with intention:
1. Create a simple plan — I make a time-blocked to do list on a notebook. (If that feels like a lot, you could just do 3-5 things you want to accomplish in order of priority.) Making a plan helps me live with much more focus and use my time well.
2. Write down blessings — I take a minute every morning to jot down a few lines of things I’m grateful for from the past 24 hours. Gratitude reframes my perspective.
3. Get my heart pumping — I walk on the treadmill for 25-30 minutes. While walking, I read a few chapters from an encouraging book, think, and pray (see #4). This jump-starts my energy and settles my soul.
4. Pray over my day — while on the treadmill, I pray through the details of my day, handing the known and unknown over to the Lord, asking for His help, for His love to flow through me, for patience, kindness, wisdom, and for any specific areas where my heart is feeling weary or heavy.
5. Dress for the day I want to have — taking a little time to shower, dress in clothes that I love, fix my hair, and do my makeup gives my energy and helps me feel more cheerful and productive (I can’t really explain it, but it works!)
What about YOU? What’s one thing you do every morning to start your day well? Tell us in the comments!
Jesse and I discuss these 5 things more in-depth on this week’s episode of The Crystal Paine Show. We also talk about what is saving our lives, an update on our reading, reminisce about how I used to try to read while mowing the lawn, and more! Listen to it a the link above or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
In This Episode
[00:34] – Welcome to another episode of The Crystal Paine Show. Today’s topic is about mornings.
[01:26] – Let’s talk about what is saving our life: hot water.
[03:20] – There’s nothing like ice cold water.
[05:25] – I share something that has been really helpful for me, especially with pregnancy.
[07:58] – Jesse has been reading 20 minutes everyday.
[09:54] – I date myself as we reminisce when I listened to cassette tapes books when I mowed the lawn.
[11:08] – I share the book that I finished reading.
[14:24] – I read an email from one of our listeners, Tiffany.
[17:07] – So let’s talk about mornings, here are the five things I do
[17:23] – First, I create a simple plan.
[19:50] – Then, I write down my blessings.
[21:48] – Next, I get my heart pumping.
[25:05] – And while I’m doing that, I pray over my day.
[27:00] – Jesse talks about how little things can be big wins and shares one of his accomplishments.
[28:24] – Finally, I dress for the day I want to have.
[30:45] – Recap of my morning routine and we would love to hear what your routine is if you have one.
Links & Resources * Books * They Call me Mama by Nicole M. Homan * Special Mentions * The Amazing Race * Other Links * Love-Centered Parenting * 10 Days to Be a Happier Mom * Sign up for the Hot Deals Email List * MoneySavingMom.com * My Instagram account (I’d love for you to follow me there! I usually hop on at least a few times per day and share behind-the-scenes photos and videos, my grocery store hauls, funny stories, or just anything I’m pondering or would like your advice or feedback on!) * Have feedback on the show or suggestions for future episodes or topics? Send me an email: crystal @ moneysavingmom.com
The post 154. 5 Things I Do Every Morning appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
It’s so easy to over-complicate life. To completely miss simple solutions because they are, well, just too easy!
Now, hear me out: I’m not saying you should be lazy or lax. What I am saying is that there’s no point in wasting a lot of time and energy on making life more complicated or difficult than it needs to be. The more we pare down to what matters most, the more time we have to intentionally invest in what’s important.
Two questions I ask regularly as I come up against a problem or just go throughout normal life are:
1. How can I make this easier?
2. What can I do to simplify this?
I firmly believe that simplicity is a superpower. And while I have always focused on keeping things simple, the last three years of two pregnancies and fostering two other babies has caused me to simplify even more! In this episode, I share 8 ways I simplify my life.
Jesse and I also talk about a favorite TV show, a documentary we’re watching, what we’re reading, and what’s saving our lives.
In This Episode
[00:34] – Welcome to another episode of The Crystal Paine Show.
[01:45] – It has been an eventful week, with a pretty significant amount of snow.
[02:45] – One of our favorite shows on TV has returned.
[03:43] – We talk about a documentary that Jesse and I are watching.
[06:54] – What has been saving my life for some time now.
[08:00] – Jesse jokes about what is saving his life.
[09:21] – I finished an audible book that was recommended by a listener.
[13:15] – Let’s talk about simplifying our lives instead of over-complicating them. Here are 8 ways I do this…
[13:24] – I wear the same outfit over and over again.
[14:09] – My make-up and hair routine.
[16:00] – We keep meals really simple.
[16:42] – We don’t have many toys.
[17:55] – We have the older kids be in charge of many aspects of their lives.
[20:33] – We have a donation bin.
[21:18] – I avoid work related meetings and phone calls.
[22:37] – Systems for organizing emails and piles of paper.
[23:40] – Some of these may not work for you but I want to challenge you: how can you simplify?
Links & Resources * Books * The Way It Should Be by Christina Suzann Nelson * Special Mentions * The Amazing Race * Meddling documentary * Four Little Sparrows * Links for Simplifying Your Life * My System for Staying on Top of Emails * Less Paper Clutter, More Filing * How to Eliminate 99% of the Paper Piles in Your Home * My Simple System to Eliminate 99% of the Paper Piles * Other Links * Love-Centered Parenting * 10 Days to Be a Happier Mom * Sign up for the Hot Deals Email List * MoneySavingMom.com * My Instagram account (I’d love for you to follow me there! I usually hop on at least a few times per day and share behind-the-scenes photos and videos, my grocery store hauls, funny stories, or just anything I’m pondering or would like your advice or feedback on!) * Have feedback on the show or suggestions for future episodes or topics? Send me an email: crystal @ moneysavingmom.com
The post 153. 8 Ways I Simplify My Life appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
My word for 2021 was Show Up. (Okay, that’s two words, but who’s counting?)
This simple phrase impacted so much of my year and served as a guide for how I lived my day-to-day.
Any time I found out a friend was struggling or discouraged or just feeling overwhelmed or tired, I tried to stop and pray, “God, how would You have me show up for her?” That sometimes looked like sending a text or checking in regularly or just stopping to pray or sending dinner or a card. But it often looked like reaching out of my comfort zone and offering intentional proximity — like showing up at her house (even if I didn’t know her that well) to give her a hug or watch her kids so she could take nap.
Here’s the beautiful thing I discovered: taking those steps beyond loving people well at a distance (where it’s still pretty safe and comfortable) to leaning in and showing up right in the middle of the mess is awkward and uncomfortable at first, but some of the deepest community has been forged in those vulnerable spaces this year.
I often didn’t have the right words to say. Many times, I questioned as I was driving to someone’s house, “What am I doing? This is crazy! What if I show up and it’s just really weird.” But then I’d remind myself that this wasn’t about me; this was about me showing Jesus’ love even if I felt inadequate and awkward.
And every single time, I would leave knowing that it wasn’t about saying the perfect words or even doing a lot to make a difference, it was just communicating to a long-time friend or newer acquaintance: I am WITH you. You are not alone. You matter. I see you.
I think that in our often-detached virtual world, it’s easy to play it safe in relationships. To hold people at arm’s length. But playing it safe never builds strong community or deep relationships.
Let’s be people who pursue intentional proximity. Who show up for others — even when it feels uncomfortable. And who keep showing up over and over again.
We were made for community!
In This Episode
[00:34] – Welcome to another episode of The Crystal Paine Show. Starting the year off with colds.
[02:09] – Finally finding our groove while traveling to Kansas.
[06:00] – How cold is cold weather to us?
[08:36] – Jesse shares what is saving his life.
[10:10] – The lotion that is saving my life.
[13:11] – My book update and my new monthly reading goals.
[14:35] – The last book I finished in 2021.
[15:55] – We share a running inside joke about our marriage.
[17:05] – What is Intentional Proximity?
[20:00] – Don’t just say, “Let me know if we can help!”
[22:15] – Yes, it was awkward, at times. But it was worth it.
[25:35] – It was a great reminder that it wasn’t about me but about showing Jesus’ love.
[28:11] – What would intentional proximity look like for you?
Links & Resources * Books * Pray Confidently and Consistently: Finally Let Go of the Things Holding You Back from Your Most Important Conversation by Valerie Woerner * GoalsMy Goals for 2022 * My Reading Goals for January * Special Mentions * Food Saver * Magnesium Lotion Shop * Other Links * Love-Centered Parenting * 10 Days to Be a Happier Mom * Sign up for the Hot Deals Email List * MoneySavingMom.com * My Instagram account (I’d love for you to follow me there! I usually hop on at least a few times per day and share behind-the-scenes photos and videos, my grocery store hauls, funny stories, or just anything I’m pondering or would like your advice or feedback on!) * Have feedback on the show or suggestions for future episodes or topics? Send me an email: crystal @ moneysavingmom.com
The post 152. What I Learned From a Year of Intentional Proximity appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
We’ve been keeping a secret for 11 weeks — I’m 15 weeks pregnant!!!!
Yes, this news was possibly even more shocking than when we found out I was pregnant with Kierstyn after 10 years of infertility! In fact, we were so surprised, we waited a full week to tell our kids — which, if you know Jesse and me well, you know we can’t keep secrets from our kids!
We found out I was pregnant right after saying yes to adopting Baby D… who we thought was going to our family’s caboose! But God definitely had different plans and we just had laugh at the timing of it all!
We also have to marvel at how we went from grieving the loss of being told that we’d never be able to have more kids a few years ago (not even through IVF) to now prepping for having 3 littles with the oldest being barely 2 years old! Oh and at 40 and 41 years old! Only God!
We are all thrilled and excited with this very unexpected news and how God is writing a story here that is so different than what we could have ever dreamed or imagined!
I’m slowly coming back to life after 9 weeks or so of the usual morning-noon-and-night sickness and extreme exhaustion. If you’ve noticed I’ve not been sharing as much here and not sharing food/cooking/recipes or videos with my face much on Instagram stories, now you know why!
For all the details on how we found out, how we told our kids, and more, be sure to listen to today’s podcast episode.
Want more details on my pregnancy? I’m sharing more and answering your questions over on Instagram today.
Note: I know that this news will be really hard for some of you to hear. You’d give anything to be pregnant and hearing another pregnancy announcement feels like a gut-punch. I want you to know you’ve been heavy on my heart and I’ve been praying specifically for you. I also want you to know that you have my full permission to unfollow or mute my social media accounts for awhile — whatever you need to do, please do it and know I will fully support you in that. In This Episode
[00:34] – Welcome to another episode of The Crystal Paine Show.
[01:28] – Our infertility journey.
[05:06] – The surprise of saying yes to adopting Baby D.
[06:54] – After saying yes to Baby D, we felt done and complete.
[09:27] – My reaction to the pregnancy test results.
[12:00] – Jesse explains how we shared the news with the kids.
[15:50] – We didn’t really tell any of our other close friends or our family for a while. Here’s why…
[20:40] – My heart has been heavy for those experiencing infertility and loss.
The post 151. Surprise! I’m 15 weeks pregnant! appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
“I can’t do this. It’s too much. I’m scared.” I lay awake in bed pretty much all night long the first night Baby D arrived. I felt completely overwhelmed and in over my head.
When they told us he had Down syndrome and a cleft lip (they didn’t realize he had a cleft palate, too) + a feeding tube, I expected an 8-month-old baby that was somewhat delayed. I didn’t expect him to show up as a tiny malnourished infant that was just 11 pounds, in 0-3 month clothes, and non-responsive. I knew he needed a lot of medical care and DCS didn’t know contact info/names for any of his doctors or specialists, I had no clue what I was doing — and Jesse was out of town that week!
In this last podcast episode of the year, Jesse and I sat down and talked about what we learned in 2021 and the entire theme was how this sweet boy has completely changed our lives. I could recount story after story of specific ways that God has showed up and answered prayers, helped us track down all the specialists in record time, brought just the right medical professionals into our lives at the right time, protected Baby D in the process of us not knowing so much, and has been so faithful to carry us through many scary moments and nights.
Not only was our faith and trust in the Lord stretched and strengthened in big ways as we saw God show up, but like Jesse said so eloquently (and it brought tears to my eyes): “When Baby D came to us, he needed multiple surgeries. But what we didn’t know was that God was going to use his little life to perform surgery on our hearts.”
Truly, this little boy has completely changed all of us in profound ways. And he’s been one of the greatest gifts we’ve ever experienced as a family. I struggle to put into words just how deeply this boy has captivated and changed our hearts forever!
We could have never dreamed what 2021 had in store for our family, but God writes the best stories!
In this episode, Jesse and I also talk about a few other things we learned in 2021, a book I’ve been reading for a long time and finally finished, an app Jesse loves, and a snack I’ve been enjoying. We also tease a big episode we have coming at the beginning of 2022. You won’t want to miss it!
Thank you so much for all of you who regularly listen to the podcast each week. We are so grateful for each and every one of you and are looking forward to what 2022 brings!
In This Episode [00:34] – Last night was a bit of an unexpected night, but it reminded me of how easy it is to take things for granted.
[02:13] – Speaking of perspective, today we are going to be talking about what we learned in 2021.
[03:05] – A weather app that has been so help!
[06:00] – Nuts and vegetables, how can you go wrong?
[06:42] – I finished a book I’ve been slowly reading for a long time!
[09:16] – So let’s talk about what we learned in 2021.
[12:04] – It’s okay to have seasons where you’re not as goal-driven and goal-orientated, but I also realized that I missed the focus that more goal-setting brings.
[14:55] – 2020 taught us all that, what we think life is going to look like can be completely upended.
[15:32] – Jesse shares his two takeaways from 2021.
[17:54] – A big part of our story this year was saying yes to Baby D.
[22:16] – It was such a faith-building experience for both of us.
[24:29] – In the process of Baby D’s surgeries, our hearts have been repaired as well.
[26:04] – Thank you so much for joining us this year!
Links & Resources * Books * The Mystery of Providence by John Flavel * Don’t Miss Out: Daring to Believe Life is Better with the Holy Spirit by Jeannie Cunnion * Special Mentions * Storm Shield, weather app * Skinny Dipped Cashews * Other Links * Love-Centered Parenting * 10 Days to Be a Happier Mom * Sign up for the Hot Deals Email List * MoneySavingMom.com * My Instagram account (I’d love for you to follow me there! I usually hop on at least a few times per day and share behind-the-scenes photos and videos, my grocery store hauls, funny stories, or just anything I’m pondering or would like your advice or feedback on!) * Have feedback on the show or suggestions for future episodes or topics? Send me an email: crystal @ moneysavingmom.com
The post 150. What We Learned in 2021 appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Welcome back! We unplugged for a few weeks; visiting family and friends in Kansas for Thanksgiving but we are excited to be back with another episode today!
In this week’s episode, we not only talk about our December Bucket List but we also share an exciting Baby D update, what we’ve been reading, what is saving our lives, and some thoughts on self-care vs. self-comfort.
In This Episode
[00:34] – Welcome to another episode of The Crystal Paine Show.
[03:24] – Today we’re sharing a big Baby D update.
[08:13] – Let’s talk about the books we’ve been reading.
[11:51] – Some thoughts on self-care and self-comfort.
[15:38] – Jesse’s new gadget.
[19:39] – How handing off doing the Advent Calendar has been such a good thing.
[21:49] – Let’s talk about our Christmas Bucket List.
[23:28] – We started asking the kids at the end of the November: “What are 1 to 2 activities you’d really like to do in December?”
[26:09] – Here’s what everyone picked and what is on our Bucket List this year.
Links & Resources * Books * Pike Logan Series by Brad Taylor * Mom Than a Mom: How Prioritizing Your Wellness Helps You (and Your Family) Thrive by Kari Kampakis * Special Mentions * Libby/Overdrive * Garmin Instinct Watch * Die Hard Advent Calendar * Read-Aloud Revival * Stocking Stuffer Ideas from Dollar Tree * All Day Christmas Family Celebration 2020 * Other Links * Love-Centered Parenting * 10 Days to Be a Happier Mom * Sign up for the Hot Deals Email List * MoneySavingMom.com * My Instagram account (I’d love for you to follow me there! I usually hop on at least a few times per day and share behind-the-scenes photos and videos, my grocery store hauls, funny stories, or just anything I’m pondering or would like your advice or feedback on!) * Have feedback on the show or suggestions for future episodes or topics? Send me an email: crystal @ moneysavingmom.com
The post 149. Our December Bucket List appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
Remember in last week’s podcast episode when we alluded to how you can often pre-decide a negative narrative about yourself and you can let that cloud all your interactions with others? Instead of hearing their kind words or assuming they are sharing something out of love, you hear and see everything through the lens of a negative narrative.
In this week’s podcast episode, Jesse and discuss this more in-depth. We talk about lies we’ve believed, how these have colored our viewpoints, and how believing these lies have kept us from living in freedom and joy.
We share more what it looks like to truly take to heart the quote from Charles Martin that says, “Only Jesus gets to tell you who you are.”
In this podcast, we also give you an update on Baby D’s surgery and the incredibly surprising results of his surgery. We also tell you about a great idea Jesse came up with that has been saving our lives, we talk about Aldi grocery delivery, and about a book I recently listened to.
In This Episode
[00:34] – Welcome to another episode of The Crystal Paine Show. We have lots to share with you today.
[01:23] – Today we want to talk about replacing the lies with truth and how only Jesus gets to tell you who you are.
[01:29] – But before we get into that, it was a big week for Baby D!
[06:43] – We had prepared ourselves that he was going to have severe hearing loss for all his life.
[09:04] – For the first time in his life, he is able to hear! He’s learning all sorts of new things as a result!
[11:28] – I just finished listening to a book by Charles Martin.
[12:56] – What’s saving my life this week: Aldi grocery delivery.
[14:20] – Jesse’s brilliant purchase that is saving our life!
[17:39] – Lies versus truth and how this can impact your life.
[18:44] – Jesse, are there lies that you have believed, that you have seen how it’s just had such a negative impact on your life?
[21:06] – In Christ, we can do all things!
[23:41] – If we let what other people think of us be where our worth and value is, it’s never going to be enough
[27:59] – What does Jesus actually say about you?
Links & Resources * Books * The Letter Keeper (A Murphy Shepherd Novel Book 2) by Charles Martin * Special Mentions * Phone Charging Base * Charles Martin * Hoopla * Aldi Groceries * Other Links * Love-Centered Parenting * 10 Days to Be a Happier Mom * Sign up for the Hot Deals Email List * MoneySavingMom.com * My Instagram account (I’d love for you to follow me there! I usually hop on at least a few times per day and share behind-the-scenes photos and videos, my grocery store hauls, funny stories, or just anything I’m pondering or would like your advice or feedback on!) * Have feedback on the show or suggestions for future episodes or topics? Send me an email: crystal @ moneysavingmom.com
The post 148. Only Jesus Gets to Tell You Who You Are appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.
In this week’s episode of the Crystal Paine Show, Jesse and I share some of the lessons we’ve learned in our almost 19 years of marriage on how fight less and communicate with more grace and depth.
We talk about practical strategies, personal development and growth, and how to approach difficult conversations that could potentially lead to conflict and misunderstanding.
We also share some family updates — especially about Baby D’s upcoming surgery — and then we talk about what we’ve been reading, a program Jesse has been doing to keep him accountable to health goals, a teeth whitening kit I’ve been loving, and more!
In This Episode
[00:34] – Today we’re talking about How We (mostly) Stopped Arguing
[02:45] – This is a big week for us as it’s Baby D’s big cleft palate surgery.
[09:06] – Jesse shares about what’s helping him stay more accountable to health goals.
[13:32] – There are seasons for really big audacious goals. And there are seasons for just, well those little nudge goals. So figuring out which season you are in and what’s going to be best for you.
[14:57] – A teeth whitening kit I’ve been loving!
[17:21] – We share about books we’ve been reading.
[19:44] – Let’s talk about how we’ve stopped arguing — most of the time!
[21:50] – The biggest thing that has helped us is changing our perspective of God and His love for us! Oftentimes, we can get frustrated with our spouse because we expect them to give us something that only God can give.
[23:55] – If you don’t believe you are fully loved by God, it’s hard to believe you are loved by others.
[25:28] – If you’ve pre-decided what your spouse, what your kids, what your co-workers, what your community, your friends, believe about you, you won’t be able to really hear what they are saying.
[26:24] – We come from very different perspectives and we process the world very differently. Learning to see this as a gift has helped our communication in a big way.
[30:57] – Changing the way we approach conflict, hurt, and misunderstandings makes such a difference in allowing our conversations to be productive versus full of tense and frustration.
[32:23] – I think another thing that’s been really, really helpful for us, is just prioritizing romance and fun. Don’t forget what drew you together in the first place.
Links & Resources * Books * Finish by John Acuff
A Surrendered Yes: 52 Devotions to Let Go and Live Free by Rebekah Lyons
Imagination Station, Series * Special Mentions * 75 Hard * SugarWOD, fitness app * Lumineux, Oral Essentials * Other Links * Love-Centered Parenting * 10 Days to Be a Happier Mom * Sign up for the Hot Deals Email List * MoneySavingMom.com * My Instagram account (I’d love for you to follow me there! I usually hop on at least a few times per day and share behind-the-scenes photos and videos, my grocery store hauls, funny stories, or just anything I’m pondering or would like your advice or feedback on!) * Have feedback on the show or suggestions for future episodes or topics? Send me an email: crystal @ moneysavingmom.com
The post 147. How We {mostly} Stopped Arguing appeared first on CrystalPaine.com.