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Kathryn

0 In 2024/ Christmas/ Inspiration/ Joy/ Motherhood/ Parent Tip/ Raising boys

Finding Peace & Joy in the Chaos of the Christmas Season

🎄 Finding Peace and Joy in the Chaos of the Christmas Season🎄

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The holidays are meant to be the happiest time of the year, but for many, they can feel like the most stressful time of the year. Extra to-dos, packed schedules, and high expectations can leave us overwhelmed and far from the peace we hope to experience.

We decorate our homes with pillows and ornaments that say “Love,” “Joy,” and “Peace,” yet that is NOT what we are feeling. Why? Because in the crazy, we forget all self-care. We skimp on sleep, skip exercise, and don’t drink enough water—all while trying to “do it all.”

But what if this year could be different?

Crystal Paine from Money Saving Mom suggests a simple approach: list all the holiday traditions and activities you think need to happen, then let each child choose just one. Focus on those, and let the rest go.

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List all the holiday traditions and activities you think need to happen, then let each child choose just one. Focus on those, and let the rest go.

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At our house, we’ve made similar adjustments. When my kids were little, we put up a tiny tree on a table to make decorating manageable. I rarely bake Christmas cookies because I know I’ll just eat them all. And we don’t overdo gifts.

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Little George and Clark
3 year old George and 1 year old Clark

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Instead, we focus on simple traditions like:

  • Decorating the tree and sharing stories about our favorite ornaments
  • Driving around to see Christmas lights
  • Watching Christmas movies
  • Reading Christmas stories (and THE Christmas story)
  • Listening to Christmas music

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Hanging new ornaments they received for Christmas

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These are the moments our kids remember—not the perfectly decorated house or an endless stack of gifts. What they really want is a peaceful, present mom who enjoys the season with them.

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What our kids want is a a peaceful, present mom who enjoys the season with them.

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When you feel stress creeping in, turn to Jesus. He’s your strength and peace. Time with Him isn’t just another thing to add to your list; it’s the thing that makes everything else better. He can calm your heart, help you prioritize, and multiply your time in ways you never imagined.

The peace, love, and joy we see on those Christmas decorations aren’t just words—they’re promises. Take a moment to stop, breathe, and ask Jesus to fill your heart. Let His love guide your season and remind you of what truly matters.

This year, may you embrace a holiday filled with peace, love, and joy—the kind that comes not from doing more but from being present in the moments that count.

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My Challenge for YOU:

As you prepare for this holiday season, ask yourself: What is one thing I can let go of to create more peace in my home?

Let it go, and replace it with something that brings true joy—whether it’s quiet time with Jesus, a relaxed evening with family, or simply resting.

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Thanks for reading and please consider subscribing!

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Click here for tips on a big Christmas with a small budget.

December 8, 2024 By
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0 In 2024/ Christmas/ Motherhood/ Raising boys

Best (Christmas) Gifts for Teen Boys

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In just a few days I will have THREE teen-age boys in my house!

Finding the perfect gift for a teen boy can feel like cracking a secret code. With so many options out there, it’s tough to know what will really hit the mark. Whether you’re shopping for a sports enthusiast, tech lover, budding entrepreneur, or someone who’s impossible to shop for, this guide has you covered. These gift ideas are not only practical but are sure to bring a smile to even the most hard-to-please teen. Let’s dive into the best gifts for teen boys that they’ll actually love!

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1. Hoodie

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The #1 thing I see teens wear every day is a hoodie. The top picks? Nike or their favorite sports team.

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2. Joggers

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Along with the hoodie, this is what most teen boys are wearing.

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3. Airpods

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Most teens need earphones or earbuds for school. Having AirPods is something special.

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4. Sports Jersey

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Find out their favorite team and/or player, and most teen boys would love a jersey.

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5. Socks

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I’m not sure where the socks go, but it seems my boys are always in need of them. Throughout the year, most of their socks come from Target. However, at Christmas they get some upgraded socks. Nike Elite are their favorites.

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6. Fast Food Gift Cards

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Teenage boys can EAT! Gift cards to their favorite restaurants are a huge hit. Taco Bell, any hamburger place, Chick-fil-a, Chipotle and Subway are some favorites.

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7. Personalized Bracelet

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This is my teenage son’s favorite thing to wear. A customized bracelet with a word of your choice. His word is “strength.” He also has “courage” and “faith.” Choose a word that describes your teen, or a message they need to hear, and this may become their favorite item.

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8. New Ball

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The #1 most played with gift for my boys from day 1, has always been ANY type of ball. If your child plays a sport, perhaps this is the time to get them an upgraded ball.

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9. An experience

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My teens love Top Golf!

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  • Movie tickets
  • TopGolf
  • WhirleyBall
  • Escape Room – Mall of America has the BEST escape rooms!

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10. Sports Equipment

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Does your child have a sport or activity that they enjoy – perhaps a new golf club, sport bag, etc.

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11. Baseball Cap

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In my area, teen boys love Waggle Hats. Another favorite is a baseball hat from their favorite team or city.

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12. Shoes

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Teens grow FAST! This is the time of year to get them a new pair of running shoes, cleats, crocs, birks or any shoe of their choice.

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13. A Book

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The #1 book I recommend for teen boys: Chop Wood, Carry Water. Perhaps you could offer a teen some $ if they read and give you a report on what they learned?

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14. Game

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Many teens are outgrowing board games, but we still have family game night at our house. The prefer games that make them laugh or require strategy.

Here are a few suggestions:

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Click here to see our top ten family board games.

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15. Shirt

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Again, teens are GROWING and usually in need of more clothes. Now is the time to buy them a shirt from their favorite team, and Nike shirts are always a hit as well.

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16. Bike

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If your teen has outgrown their bike, this is a good time to buy them a new one. You can also find a used one on Marketplace.

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17. Basketball Hoop

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Whether your kids love basketball or not, this is a gift that could provide hours of entertainment and draw the neighbor kids to your driveway or backyard!

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18. Customizable Water Bottle

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Am I the only one with a teen who can’t keep track of his water bottle? Get one with their NAME on it!

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19. Cologne

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Is your teen asking for cologne but not sure what he’d like or what smells good? Get him a sample pack.

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20. Gaming System

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21. Necklace/Chain

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22. Slippers

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23. Facewash/Acne Face Stickers

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24. Spikeball

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spike ball

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25. Hookie Game

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I want to acknowledge that these items can add up FAST! Christmas for teens can be SPENDY, but it doesn’t have to be. Work within YOUR budget. Let your teens know where you are and what they can expect this year. You can also buy many items second-hand to save money.

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Tips on saving:

  • Check marketplace for hand-me-downs.
  • Buy ONE item for Christmas.
  • Share this list with grandparents or someone interested in buying a gift for your teen.

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Do you have something to add? Leave a comment!

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Click here to read about my goodwill Christmas

Thanks for reading and please consider subscribing.

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Some links are affiliate links. If you choose to purchase an item, I may earn a commission.

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*Links are affiliate.

November 15, 2024 By
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0 In 2024/ Book Review/ Funny/ Giveaway/ Memories/ Minnesota/ Product Recommendations/ Raising boys/ Review

Turtle Trouble: An Unforgettable Adventure with the Egly Brothers – Share to Win!

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(Skip to the end to see how to WIN!)

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Have you ever reached into a mystery box without knowing what’s inside? The mix of excitement, a little fear, and a whole lot of fun? That’s how the Turtle Trouble book begins—a true story of curiosity and teamwork, featuring the four Egly brothers.

Turtle Trouble brings to life one of our family’s unforgettable adventures, where a fun-filled “What’s in the Box?” game takes an unexpected turn. What started as a simple challenge spiraled into something wilder. When a frog and a turtle join the game, the boys can’t wait to put their bravery to the test!

But, of course, adventure always comes with a twist: soon after a turtle appears, it mysteriously disappears! What follows is a fast-paced family search that has everyone wondering—where could the curious creature have gone? Will the boys be able to solve the mystery before it’s too late?

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Turtle Trouble

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The True Story Behind Turtle Trouble

Writing this book was a joy! With four energetic boys, our family’s life is often filled with adventures, unexpected detours, and moments that make us laugh (or scramble!). The “What’s in the Box?” game was a favorite in our house, where each turn promises something new and exciting. But when real creatures entered the game, we were in for a story that would go down in Egly family history.

Turtle Trouble is a story of teamwork, curiosity, and a family’s determination to solve a problem together. Just like our last book, it’s about celebrating kindness, cooperation, and the fun of family life. Our boys had so much fun creating this memory that I knew I had to ‘re-create it’ into a book that we could share with other families.

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Here is actual footage of the day this story was created:

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Where to Find Turtle Trouble

If you’re looking for a story to make your little ones laugh, gasp, and cheer along with the Egly brothers, you can find Turtle Trouble on Amazon! It’s a perfect read for kids who love animals, mystery, and a dash of family fun.

Signed copies will be available in December and would make a wonderful Christmas gift for any child up to age 12.

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How to Win a Signed Copy:

Share this blog post or this link on instagram, Facebook or any of your socials and TAG ME! Every place you share gets you entered to win a signed copy!

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Thank you for supporting Turtle Trouble—we hope it brings as much joy to your family as it has to ours!

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November 8, 2024 By
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0 In 2024

Six Steps to Self-Publish Your Book

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You’ve decided to write a book – congratulations! You are entering a world where words are your sword, coffee is your shield, and editing will be the dragon you slay – continually.

The path to publishing is full of creativity, collaboration, and—let’s be real—a few headaches. Whether you’re aiming for the New York Times Best Seller List or just want to share your story with the world (or at least your mom – I love you mom), follow these steps and you’ll be well on your way to becoming the next great author. Or, at the very least, you’ll have a book.

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I chose to self-publish for several reasons:

  • Self-publishing allowed me to tell the story exactly how I envisioned it, while maintaining control over the publishing timeline.
  • I wanted the flexibility to share the book with any school or bookstore and to manage my own schedule for events.
  • I felt confident in my ability to promote and distribute the book independently.

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If those reasons resonate with you, or your tired of getting your manuscript ignored or denied by a traditional publisher, this might be the path for you.

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Here are the steps I’ve used when publishing my children’s books:

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Step 1: Write and Re-write:

  1. Write a rough draft: Begin with a clear outline and write your first draft.
  2. Read out loud: This helps in identifying awkward sentences, flow issues, and grammatical errors. 
  3. Edit and rewrite: Revise your manuscript for clarity, coherence, and consistency.

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Step 2: Get Feedback

  1. Hire an editor: Consider hiring a professional editor to review your manuscript.
  2. Beta Readers: Find readers in your target audience and gather feedback.
  3. Online writing communities: Share excerpts on writing platforms to get constructive feedback.

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Step 3: Illustrations

  1. An artistic friend or relative: Discuss your vision for the illustrations.
  2. A high school or college student: Check their portfolio and ask for samples for your manuscript. 
  3. Hire someone online: Use platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or consider hiring a professional illustrator.

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Step 4: Graphic Design/Formatting

  1. Collaborate with a designer who can integrate text and images. 
  2. Ensure the designer can format the book for various platforms, including Kindle Direct Publishing.

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Step 5: Promote your book!

  1. Author Website: Create a website to showcase your book, share your story, and engage with readers. 
  2. Crowdfunding campaign: Utilize platforms like Kickstarter or GoFundMe for pre-sales and marketing. 
  3. Social Media and Word of Mouth: Leverage social media platforms, engage with potential readers, and encourage word-of-mouth marketing.

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Step 6: Sell your book

  1. If selling on Amazon, every order will put money in your pocket.
    • You decide the price.
    • When someone places an order, Amazon will print on demand, and send you a percentage (around 30%).
    • Ask those who’ve purchased your book to leave a review.
  2. Purchase a bulk order of your books on Amazon to sell on your own.
  3. Book Stores – connect with book stores to sell your books!

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Found my book inside Poor Richards!

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Receive a signed copy of both books when you Venmo me $25:

https://venmo.com/u/Kathryn-Egly

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Now that you’ve written, rewritten, gotten feedback, found an illustrator, and maybe cried into your keyboard a few times, you’re ready to promote and sell your masterpiece! From launching a website to charming people at your events, your author journey is just beginning. Sure, there will be moments where you wonder why you didn’t just take up knitting, but trust me, seeing your book in readers’ hands makes it all worth it. So, get out there, share your story, and don’t forget to celebrate.

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Click here to purchase a copy of “The Great Lake Rescue” on Amazon

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Click here for info on a Book Launch:

“The Great Lake Rescue” Book Launch Party Recap

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Click here to purchase my first book.

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Click here to purchase my husband’s book.

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Thanks for reading and please consider subscribing!

November 1, 2024 By
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0 In 2024/ Family/ Memories/ Minnesota/ Peek into our Week/ Raising boys/ Things to do in Minnesota

Fall Break in the Twin Cities

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When we moved to Minnesota I didn’t understand why people would go “up north” for vacation. Wouldn’t they want to go SOUTH and find sunshine and warm weather. Well, when I finally went “up north,” it all made sense. It’s magnificent.

As fall break approached, we thought about indulging in more of that ‘up north’ beauty. But instead, we decided to stay home, check out some local spots, and take a breather before sports and the holiday busy-ness have us running.

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Here are some highlights:

  • Clark and Paul found recipes on TikTok. While I was working at the Artisan Home tour, they road their bikes to Aldi, bought groceries with their own money, and cooked chicken and pasta for the family! I could not have been more proud.

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  • We made a trip to the Mall of America, where we explored the new Museum of Illusions—such a fun and mind-bending experience.

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  • First college visit for George! We got a tour of the University of Minnesota. What a BEAUTIFUL campus.

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The U of M has one of the largest campus bookstores in the county.

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Beautiful historic buildings on the U of M campus!

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  • We went to a Minnesota Timberwolves preseason game against the Denver Nuggets. Unfortunately, AntMan was not playing, but it was still a fun game to watch.

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Our first “family” basketball game.
The 2 legends behind Luke were in attendance, but not playing.

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  • Clark was back on the court. He is playing on a ‘pre-seaon’ team before his first ‘high school’ try out. Here’s a quick video highlight:

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  • Luke had one additional day off so we spent the day together playing pickle ball and going to The Wild Robot. It was a cute movie, but we like the book better.

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We are loving this unusually warm fall in Minnesota. The tree outside my house is bringing me absolute delight!

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Thanks for reading and happy fall, y’all!

October 23, 2024 By
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0 In 2024/ Saving money

Upside: An App that Puts Money in Your Pocket!

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One small way to fight back against inflation are with some tried and true cash back apps like UPSIDE. For the next 3 days, you’ll get a $10 bonus for downloading the app and using KATHRYN39226. This is ON TOP of all the other savings you earn.

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The process is so easy: whenever I need to fill up, I just redeem the offer, pay as usual, and get cash back within 24 hours! I cash out with PayPal, but you can also deposit the money into your bank account, or snag a gift card.

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Upside earns money by recommending gas stations and restaurants (including the gas station I already frequent near my house):

Cash back is 17- 20 cents PER GALLON!

I love apps that make my dollars go further, and that’s why I’m recommending it to you!

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Only for the next 3 days, if you download the app, you and I will both get $10, on top of the regular cash back from gas and restaurants.

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Use promo code KATHRYN39226 to get a $10 bonus on your first purchase. https://upside.app.link/KATHRYN39226

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Click here for MORE Money-saving app recommendations!

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Thanks for reading and please consider subscribing.

October 6, 2024 By
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0 In 2024/ Faith/ Friendship/ Inspiration

Staying Calm and Connected: How to Keep the Peace During Election Season

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Buckle up, folks, it’s election season, and things are already getting… colorful. Whether we’re dodging attack ads on TV, wading through heated social media posts, or trying to survive that one neighbor who suddenly thinks they’re a political analyst, staying positive can feel like an Olympic sport.

So, how can we be part of the solution instead of fanning the flames? How do we make it through without torching relationships or our sanity? I can’t promise you won’t have moments where you feel like flinging your remote at the TV or using bad words in a Facebook debate, but these tips might just help you keep your cool (and your friendships) intact over the next few months.

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1. Think Before You Speak (or Type)

If you have THOUGHTS in your head that you want to express (out loud or through your key board) …think for a minute before they come out of your mouth (or before you type them). Use a KINDNESS and EMPATHY filter!

The words you speak define you. Make sure to let the right kind of words out, even when you disagree.

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The words we speak DEFINE us.

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The Bible reminds us to love God, love our enemies, and love each other. In other words, there is NO PERSON we are exempt from loving.

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2. Choose Your Battles Wisely

Bob Goff, a respected speaker and writer, never lost a legal case in his career as a lawyer. He attributed the success to his ability to choose cases wisely, not his legal prowess. We can apply this by picking our battles wisely and not engaging in disputes over trivial matters.

Use wisdom in what battles you choose to fight.

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3. Step out of your comfort zone

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I like my comfort zone. It’s nice when the people think like me and agree with me. However, I’m making steps to enlarge my comfort zone. I want to learn from people who don’t look like me, vote like me or think Iike me.

I heard someone say that he tries to have someone on his right he thinks is a little bit crazy and someone on his left who’s a little bit crazy. It’s good to hear from a variety of perspectives.

It doesn’t mean you’re going to change your mind about how you’re going to vote, but it gives context and understanding. It may actually help sharpen your arguments and shape the way you think about things.

Do some people’s viewpoints bother me? YES! After talking do we still disagree? Yes. And it’s okay to respectfully agree to disagree.

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You may be misunderstood. That doesn’t make you a victim, it makes you a participant.

Bob Goff

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4. Digital Detox

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Let’s be real—doomscrolling never helped anyone. If you find yourself getting angry watching the news or reading social media posts – it might be time for a break. Call a friend and talk about anything but politics. Trust me, the news will still be there when you get back (unfortunately).

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5. Be Curious, Not Judgmental

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One practical way to foster understanding is to have a conversation with someone who holds a different opinion. Our differences can make us better! Invite someone to share a meal, and be willing to learn from their perspectives. You can still be kind to someone with whom you disagree. And remember, your neighbor/co-worker/fellow soccer mom is more than who they vote for, and so are you!

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Questions/Comments to Foster Understanding

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Here are some questions to ask and ways to respond when someone has a differing viewpoint and opinion:

  • Tell me more about that.
  • Can you help me understand why you feel that way?
  • How did you come to that conclusion?
  • I appreciate your experience with this.
  • I’m listening.
  • I hear what you are saying.
  • I care about your perspective.
  • I haven’t thought of it that way.
  • Let me think about that before I respond.
  • Thanks for your transparency.

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My hope is that we can all strive for respect, amid our differences. John 16 guides us to aspire to be one, acknowledging that unity doesn’t mean uniformity, but rather a shared commitment to curiosity, empathy, and genuine interest in one another.

Let’s build bridges of understanding and kindness, one conversation at a time.

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Those are my pro tips for surviving election season—because who doesn’t want to keep their sanity and their friendships intact? Got a tip of your own? Drop it in the comment box (you know, that tiny one up there by the title). I’d love to hear your wisdom—seriously, help me out!

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Click here to join an “Election Season Kindness Challenge”

Click here to read 6 lessons I learned last year

September 22, 2024 By
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2 In 2024/ Product Recommendations/ Review

A Few More Favorites From Trader Joes

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If there’s one store that never fails to surprise and delight me, it’s Trader Joe’s. From unique frozen foods to fresh plants that brighten up any space, this grocery store is a treasure trove of amazing products. Recently I wrote a blog post about a few of our favorite things from Trader Joes. Today, I’m adding a few more items to that list.

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1. Plants – Flowers and Herbs
One of the best things about Trader Joe’s is their ever-changing selection of plants. Whether I’m looking for a seasonal bouquet to brighten up my home or an herb to use in my cooking, I can count on TJs to have a large selection that is affordable.

The Calla Lilies I picked up this summer have brought me so much joy—they were my wedding flower! And the potted basil I snagged for just $3.99 has been used all summer in my pasta dishes and favorite summer snack…

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Burrata Cheese, Sliced Tomato, Reduced Balsamic, and Fresh Basil

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2. Poffertjes
I’d passed right by these for years until a friend said these were her favorite thing at Trader Joe. Poffertjes are mini Dutch pancakes that are light, fluffy, and absolutely delightful. They come frozen and are easy to heat up for a quick breakfast or snack. A drizzle of syrup make them irresistible.

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3. Spices
Trader Joe’s spice aisle is a hidden gem. I always stock up on their Everything But The Bagel Seasoning—it goes on everything from avocado toast to eggs. Another favorite is the 21 Seasoning Salute, a salt-free blend that’s perfect for adding flavor without overwhelming the dish. The spices are high quality and often more affordable than other stores.

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4. Salsa
The salsa selection at Trader Joe’s is incredible. From the chunky Cowboy Caviar to the sweet and spicy Pineapple Salsa (mom’s fav), there’s something for every palate. I love using their salsas as a topping for tacos, a dip for chips, or even as a flavorful addition to grilled chicken.

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5. Macarons
For a sweet treat, the French Macarons from the freezer section are a must-try. These delicate, colorful confections are just the right size for satisfying a sugar craving. The flavors range from classic vanilla to pistachio and raspberry, and each one is delicious. They are perfect right from the freezer into your mouth! Yum.

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6-7. Frozen Pasta
Trader Joe’s has nailed the art of frozen pasta. My boys’ two favorites are the Pesto Linguine and the Penne Arrabbiata. These meals are perfect for a quick and delicious dinner. The flavors are authentic, the pasta is perfectly cooked, and the convenience is unbeatable.

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8. Greeting cards – I didn’t even know Trader Joes sold greeting cards until after my last post, someone said these were one of their favorite things to buy at TJs. The greeting cards are only 99 cents!! I grabbed a few to have on hand for last minute events and parties.

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Whether you’re a seasoned Trader Joes fan or a newcomer to their aisles, these products are definitely worth adding to your shopping list. Every trip to Trader Joes feels like a little adventure, and I can’t wait to discover more hidden gems on my next visit.

Let me know what your TJ favorites are by clicking on the little comment box next to the title of this post.

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Click here to read my original Trader Joes post!

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Click here for my Costco favs

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Click here for Aldi favs

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Amazon favorites here

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Thanks for reading and happy shopping!

August 29, 2024 By
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0 In 2024/ Inspiration/ Joy/ Parent Tip

The ABCs of Gratitude

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As the new school year begins, it’s the perfect time to help kids develop a positive mindset that will carry them through the year ahead. One fun and simple way to do this is by practicing mindfulness and gratitude together. These practices can help kids feel more grounded, calm, and ready to tackle whatever comes their way.

The ABCs of Gratitude—an activity designed to help kids focus on the good things in their lives. It’s an easy, creative exercise that encourages them to think about what they’re thankful for, one letter at a time.

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How to do the ABCs of Gratitude:

  1. Gather Supplies: Grab some paper, colorful markers or crayons, and find a comfortable spot to sit together.
  2. Write the Alphabet: Write the alphabet on a sheet of paper. Then, work together (or have your child work independently) and think of things you are grateful for that starts with each letter. Encourage your child to think about their school, friends, family, or favorite activities.
  3. Reflect and Share: As you go through each letter, ask your child why they’re grateful for that particular thing. This helps them connect more deeply with their feelings of gratitude. It’s also a great opportunity to share your own thoughts!
  4. Decorate the List: Let your child decorate their ABCs of Gratitude list with drawings, stickers, or doodles. This makes the activity even more fun and gives them a keepsake to look back on during the school year. 
  5. Make this a tradition: Create a new list at the beginning of each school year to see how your child grows and develops in their writing and gratitude.

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Here’s an example to get you started:

  • A: Art class
  • B: Best friends
  • C: Class pets
  • D: Dinner with family
  • E: Early mornings with mom

And so on…

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This activity is a wonderful way to focus on the GOOD in your life. It encourages you to slow down, appreciate the little things, and find joy in the present moment.

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Why This Activity Matters:

As kids head back to school, they can feel a mix of emotions—excitement, nervousness, or even a little anxiety. Practicing gratitude helps them focus on the positive aspects of their school experience and builds resilience. It’s a wonderful way to start the school year on a positive note, appreciating the little things that make life special.

This activity can also be a great conversation starter at the dinner table or a calming bedtime ritual. By regularly practicing the ABCs of Gratitude, kids can develop a habit of mindfulness that will serve them well throughout the school year.

The ABCs of Gratitude is a simple yet powerful way to set a positive tone for the year ahead!

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Click here for the Thanksgiving version of the ABCs.

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Click here for FIVE tips to Start the School Year Strong!

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Thanks for reading and please consider subscribing.

August 23, 2024 By
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0 In 2024/ Faith/ Inspiration/ Motherhood/ My Journey/ Parent Tip

Meditation: An antidote for anxiety!

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With so much happening in the world, it’s easy to get caught up in anxiety. We may worry about our health, our future, our leaders, our families … or if we remembered to lock the front door this morning (spoiler: you probably did). However, there’s a tool that can help alleviate these worries: meditation.

When you think of that word, what comes to mind? Monks in robes chanting “Om” in a temple? While that’s one image, did you know that Scripture also encourages meditation?

The definition of meditation is simply to think about something over and over. Guess what? Worrying is also thinking about something over and over! So, if you can worry, you can meditate. It’s like turning a negative superpower into a positive one. It’s thinking about something that brings life vs. something that takes life.

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Scientific research has proven that meditation done regularly (both morning and night) has a multitude of benefits. Guess what? Scripture tells us the same thing. Joshua 1:9 says, “meditate on the Word day and night.” Science and Scripture are basically BFFs.

The Bible also says that those who meditate day and night are like trees planted by the water, producing fruit, with leaves that don’t wither—whatever they do prospers (Psalm 1). Clearly, we should all aspire to be more like well-watered trees.

Studies from Harvard Medical School, Yale, and other prestigious institutions have documented the benefits of regular meditation:

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Benefits of Meditation:

  • Lowered Blood Pressure: Meditation can lower blood pressure so effectively that 16% of patients were able to stop their medication altogether. (Just imagine the savings on pharmacy bills!)
  • Better Sleep: People with insomnia who meditated 15-20 minutes twice daily for two months reported improved sleep, with most reducing or eliminating their need for sleeping pills. Hello, sweet dreams!
  • Pain Reduction: Individuals with chronic pain saw a 42% reduction in doctor visits, and open-heart surgery patients experienced fewer post-op complications. Apparently, pain gets bored and leaves when we meditate.
  • Increased Brain Power: Meditation slows brain deterioration. So if you want to keep your brain sharp, keep meditating.
  • Reduced Anxiety and Anger: During meditation, the part of the brain responsible for fight or flight takes a nap, while the part responsible for peace, compassion, and happiness gets a wake-up call.
  • Decreased Depression: Meditation helps alleviate depression. Who knew sitting quietly could pack such a punch?
  • Boosted Self-Esteem, Concentration, and Relaxation: Meditation is like a multi-vitamin for your mind and soul.

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Often, when I’m praying, I’m on the go—asking, talking, and rushed. This research challenged me to add another dimension to my prayers. One that Scripture encourages: “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).

I’ve started setting a timer on my phone for just one minute (a baby step!). I sit in silence and breathe. I listen instead of speak. As a Christ follower, when I meditate, I think of God, His Word, and His benefits. This increases my faith, strength, and peace.

Other words you could meditate on include:

  • Peace
  • Love
  • Strength
  • Wisdom
  • Health

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Just get quiet, allow yourself to breathe deeply, and think about the Word over and over. It’s fascinating that worry and meditation are basically the same thing (thinking of something over and over), but with very different outcomes.

Worry increases anxiety. Meditation, on the other hand, has been scientifically proven to reduce anxiety. Meditation is so simple, yet has powerful benefits. So, in these turbulent times, when your mind starts to worry… STOP and MEDITATE!

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Book Recommedations:

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Additional Meditation Practices:

  • Sit outside and listen. Find at least ten DIFFERENT noises before you move on.
  • Close your eyes and imagine God’s arms wrapped around you. Rest in God’s love, be present to him, slow down to let Jesus set the pace and agenda of our day.
  • Ask God a question and listen. Here’s a few ideas of what to ask: Is there anything you want to say to me today? Is there anything you want me to do today? Is there anyone you want me to bless today? What would be pleasing to you today, Father? What lies am I believing? What is the truth you want to replace that lie with?
  • List 15 things you are grateful for.
  • Slowly read a passage of Scripture and reflect.
  • Take a quiet walk without your phone.
  • Breathe in and out. BREATHE OUT negativity, stress, anxiety. BREATHE IN peace, love, and strength.

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A Few Verses to Start your Day (Morning Meditation):

Here are three of my favorite verses to meditate on in the morning and speak before getting out of bed:

1. This is the Day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

2. May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight. Psalm 19:14

3. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

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A Few Verses to End your Day (Evening Mediation):

Here are a few verses I say to myself or with my kids before bed:

1. God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7

2. In peace, I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8

3. May the peace that passes all understanding guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7

Click here for a beautiful evening meditation for a good night’s sleep.

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Thank you for reading and happy meditating!

Click here to read how to find Joy with your 5 Senses

Click here for 7 tips for more JOY!

July 24, 2024 By
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