Kathryn, Author at kathrynegly.com

2 In Faith/ Finding our place/ Inspiration/ My Journey

Rediscovering Joy: A Journey of Self-Reflection, Resilience, and Faith

In the winter of 2018, I found myself in an emotionally challenging place, feeling disheartened and discouraged. We had recently uprooted our lives (again!) to a new state that was experiencing one of the coldest winters in years, I had very few friends. The days were cold and dark and the boys continued to pass around every type of cold. The demands of raising four boys was high and my energy was low. I was feeling overwhelmed and exhausted, both physically and emotionally. The sense of isolation began to gnaw at my spirit. As the days passed, I struggled to find motivation and meaning, and know my purpose in this new place.

I’m normally a person who’s positive and sees the bright side, but I couldn’t in this season. What made it harder was comparing myself – to myself! The person I’d been just a year ago was so different than the girl I saw in the mirror.

The previous year was marked by remarkable growth and progress:

I set big goals and accomplished most of them.
I published a children’s book.
My blog had a strong following.
I loved my job and felt like I was making an impact.
We lived in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Then all of that changed. We moved to a new place. I no longer wanted to set goals, to write, and was living in (what felt like) Antarctica.

Isn’t life supposed to move up and to the right?

It was certainly moving to the ‘right’ as time continued its relentless march forward. The “up” part seemed elusive. Why had things shifted so drastically from the year before?

In my quest for answers and to regain a sense of equilibrium, I realized I needed to make some changes. It was time to unplug from the constant noise, to halt both the input and output, and just be. After all, we are human beings, not human doings.

I took a break from writing and blogging. I removed Facebook and Instagram from my phone. I unsubscribed from the podcasts that left me discouraged and overwhelmed.

Instead, I listened to positive music, I played with my boys, I read my Bible and a couple of encouraging, life-giving books. I carved out time to make new friends.

To burst out of a cold, dark winter… Into the brightness and life of spring takes a lot of SHOVELING of gray thoughts that have become a blizzard in our minds… So thick we can’t even see our hands in front of our face.
Deb Freeman

Through this process, I learned a valuable lesson: Life doesn’t always follow a linear path. It ebbs and flows, bringing both good and challenging times. It oscillates between loneliness and fullness, happiness and sadness. The lows serve to deepen our appreciation for the highs.

Life is like a book. You take it one chapter at a time. Often one page at a time or one paragraph at a time. Some paragraphs are written better than others.

What I WANTED my life to look like was different from ‘reality.’

My previous assessment of life was a linear progression. Growth and more growth! Life and more life! Up and further up! Add, don’t subtract.

However, I’ve come to understand that ‘reality’ is far more complex. Life involves a series of steps forward, interspersed with occasional steps backward, sideways meanders, and even ‘exhilarating’ loop-de-loops.

In a world characterized by constant change, I’m thankful for a God who never changes. Who’s love is always certain.

I am deeply grateful for the nourishing wisdom found in the pages of the Bible, for the solace and inspiration that uplifting books and music provide. My heart brims with gratitude for the friendships that have woven their way into my life and the ‘date nights’ shared with Ted at new restaurants. I’m grateful for the ways my boys make me laugh and how they teach me knew things. I love that nature soothes and time heals. Every day that passed made me stronger, more able to live in (and even love!) this new place.

Look for the good, even in the dark. Once you train your eyes for little glimpses of goodness, you’ll get better at seeing them.
Shauna Niequist

Each of these elements brought me back to a place of joy. In the midst of this journey, I rediscovered that my truest calling was wife, mother, and cherished child of God. All other pursuits, at this moment in time, occupy the periphery.

How about you? What sustains you during life’s challenging moments? Where do you find hope and support? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Please leave a comment by clicking on the little box by the title.

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Here are 2 books I found LIFE-GIVING:

1. Anonymous by Alicia Britt Chole

I opened the book and instant tears as I read:

“Have you ever moved to a new place or entered a new environment where no one knew who you were, what you could do, or what dreams ignite your soul?”

(How could this author read my mind?) She goes on to say:

“Have you ever moved from leader to learner? Went from being sought out to left out?

Potential seems to hibernate and you wonder if spring will ever come? Praiseworthy strengths become dormant.

Did you realize that 90% of Jesus’ life was spent in obscurity? Only ten percent was in the public eye. And all of His life was indestructible. When we state our desire to “be like Jesus” we are usually not referring to his anonymous years. Jesus hidden years empowered him to live an eternally fruitful life.

Why would Jesus announce the birth of His precious Son with a full angelic choir, then hide this priceless Gift for three decades? What is hidden is not unimportant.

For instance, when a baby is hidden in the womb, those months are priceless and formative. If the baby is removed from the hidden place, the results can be tragic.

Jesus’ hidden years gave him time to grow and become. It was sacred. Time for rest. Unapplauded but not unproductive. Hidden years are the surprising birthplace of true spiritual greatness.”

The author suggests how to rest:

“Take long walks through the woods. Paint a picture no one will see. Watch the stars. Wander through an art museum. Play piano when only God can listen. Write in your journal. Plant a garden.”

Savor the anonymous season. Respect it’s potential.
-Alicia Britt Chole

This book was everything I needed for that challenging season. If you are in a “new, waiting, or starting over” season – Anonymous may be the perfect book for you!

2. I Guess I Haven’t Learned That Yet: Discovering New Ways of Living When the Old Ways Stop Working by Shauna Niequist

This book shares Shauna’s journey back to joy in the midst of some really challenging circumstances. Here are bits of advice she gives:

“Get outside and be on the lookout for beauty, especially in nature, read books for comfort. Fresh air helps everything. The world is still good, still beautiful, still interesting and worth savoring. God is still good, still faithful, still kind.

Keep walking, keep loving, keep writing, keep praying. Keep learning, keep forgiving, keep apologizing, keep moving forward. Keep inviting, keep listening, keep opening my arms to all of life.

It doesn’t help to pretend everything is okay. Tell the truth. Allow yourself to be supported by friends and family.

I trust more deeply in the goodness of God than I ever have. I’m more aware of the darkness and more grateful for the light.

I’m learning home isn’t singular. You don’t lose one, instead, your world and your heart expand with each new home and new set of experiences. The old ones stay and the new ones make your heart and your world bigger.“

Both books brought me SO MUCH JOY as I realized I am NOT alone. Others have been through similar challenges and came out stronger. And God is always with me, cheering me on.

(Books are affiliate links)

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October 26, 2023 By Kathryn

0 In Family/ Memories/ Raising boys

Halloween Costumes through the Years…

In 2008, George had just turned one. His wobbly walk reminded us of Frankenstein…so that’s the costume he wore that year.

2010-2013 George and Clark LOVED costumes and dressing up as different characters.

halloween — George and Clark as Woody and Buzz

This was 2015 – our first year in Colorado. All the boys were superheroes. I was well protected!

2018 – our first Halloween in Minnesota. George was AntMan, Clark and Paul were Ninjas and Luke was superman (a costume that all the boys have worn and loved).

Clark was a football player. Our friend’s daughter was a football!

Luke and his friend were “bad guys” – guilty of being TOO CUTE!
Our friends and neighbors were the police -on patrol and handing out tickets!

Who wore it better?

Have fun and be safe!

October 23, 2023 By Kathryn

0 In 2023/ Minnesota/ Things to do in Minnesota

A Peek into Two Multi-Million Dollar Homes in Minnesota

When a neighbor mentioned that he needed some help with a Parade of Home’s Artisan Home Tour, I thought, “Why not? It’s a chance to see some stunning houses and meet new people in the process!”

You can see these dreamy homes (and 18 others!) today through Sunday. Visit one house for $5 or all of them for $25 (with promo code HOLIDAY). All the details are just a click away, so check out more info by tapping right here.

Here’s the scoop on two fabulous homes I played host to over on the west side of Minneapolis.

Which one of these jaw-dropping homes could you see yourself living in?

A 3400-square-foot modern masterpiece out in Medina, MN. It sits on 7 forested acres (yet is still close to restaurants and shopping).
Or, maybe you’re more into the 6700-square-foot, 3 story beauty (with an elevator) on Lake Minnetonka.

House #1 in Medina, MN built by City Homes

I was crazy about this blue porcelain shower.

Here’s an inside tour:

House #2 in Orono, MN on Lake Minnetonka built by Lecy Brothers

This property has been in the family for over half a century, but the house itself is brand new. The top level is an ’apartment’ for the grandparents who bought this property in the 60s. The elevator takes them to every level where the next two generations live.

The main living area with an art TV and lake view

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Watch this video for a tour:

Which is your favorite? Drop your thoughts in the comment section by giving that little box next to the post title a gentle click.

And if you’re on the hunt for more design inspiration, follow my sister at Krista Lynn Designs. She’s an interior designer with phenomenal taste!
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October 20, 2023 By Kathryn

1 In 2023/ Inspiration/ Motherhood/ Raising boys

The Power of Playing with Your Kids

Are your kids saying “I’m Bored?”

Are you needing to ‘de-stress’ a little?

Here’s an idea for you: Take your kids to the backyard and play a GAME together.

It’s a refreshing departure from the ever-encroaching high-tech world of gadgets, which often leaves little room for imagination.

Playing with your kids is an opportunity to move, laugh, and learn as a family.

Here’s the good news, it doesn’t have to take all day. Just carving out 10 minutes to play strengthens the bond between parent and child and lowers stress and anxiety for all ages!

The opposite of play is NOT work. The opposite of play is depression.
Dr. Stuart Brown

Playing with your kids lowers your stress level and strengthens the bond with your kids! So, let’s embrace the enchantment of play and reap the joys it can bring to our lives.

Need game ideas?

TAG!! Good, old-fashioned TAG! When my kids ask me to play TAG, I want to say: “No, I’m too old … too tired.” However, I push that feeling aside, realizing this is an opportunity to connect with my kids and burn some calories! You don’t have to play for HOURS! Usually in 5 to 10 minutes we are worn out from running and laughing so hard! Try it!
Hide and Seek
Kick a ball
Throw a ball into different baskets/buckets
Don’t Eat Pete – Click for instructions
Would You Rather?
Other Backyard games
More Backyard Games

What game do play with your kids? Leave me a comment!

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October 14, 2023 By Kathryn

1 In 2023/ Book Review/ Motherhood/ Product Recommendations/ Raising boys

Four of my Favorite Parenting Books

There are endless parenting books on the market – many good ones, a few really bad (or just plain BORING), and a few GREAT ones! Here are four of my favorites:

1. Knights in training by Heather Haupt

This book contains practical ideas and inspiration for raising boys who are honorable, courageous and compassionate.

“We need to start training them now to be ready to take the reins of leadership – to live with integrity, to think outside of themselves, and to value the people around them. We need boys who will use their strength for the protection of others rather than to prey on others. With power and strength comes great responsibility.”
Heather Haupt, author of of Knights in Training

2. Growing grateful kids by Susie Larson

I consider this a must-read for every Christian parent. It’s filled with page after page of Biblical truth and practical encouragement.

We have this one life, this short time on earth to make our mark and to make life count. We have these children in our care for a blink of an eye. NOW is the time to be engaged and fully present. Now is the time to rise up and be the parent who trains and prepares our children to become the individuals they were created to be.
Susie Larson, author of Growing Grateful kids

God promises to give wisdom if we ask him. We need wisdom because every child is different. The Lord will show you how to parent each of your children in a way that will help him or her to grow to be the person they were created to be.
Susie Larson

3. The Blessing of a Skinned Knee: Raising Self-Reliant Kids by Dr. Wendy Mogul

This book was written by a parent and psychologist. I found it practical, extremely helpful, and even inspiring. I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed it so much that I went online and purchased a hard-copy. Topics include respect, chores, homework, helping your child deal with a ‘bad day,’ and building ‘faith practices’ in your home (though you don’t have to be a person of faith to find IMMENSE value in this book)! I highly recommend it to all parents.

Unsure how to find grace and security in the complex world we’ve inherited, we try to fill up the spaces in our children’s lives with stuff: birthdays, lessons, rooms full of toys and equipment, tutors and therapists. But material pleasures can’t buy peace of mind, and all the excess leads to more anxiety—parents fear that their children will not be able to sustain this rarefied lifestyle and will fall off the mountain the parents have built for them.
Dr. Wendy Mogul, author of The Blessing of a Skinned Knee

4. Talking to your kids about God: 30 Conversations Every Christian Parent Must Have by Natasha Crain

To care for the physical needs of others while ignoring their spiritual needs is like giving a hamburger to a hungry man sitting on train tracks and not telling him a train is coming. The Bible calls Christians to care for both physical and spiritual needs, and ignoring either puts people in serious danger.
Natasha Crain, author of Talking to Your Kids about God

Natasha Crain discusses the evidence for the existence of God, how science confirms the God of the Bible, how Christianity is different from other religions, and how all these things apply to us and the world around us. An excellent book for Christian parents who want to know how to answer their child’s questions. I recommend it to any Christian parent or parent who may be curious about God.

Other notable books:

What would YOU recommend? Leave me a comment!

Thanks for reading!

Want more?

Click here to read how to find more joy in motherhood

Click here to read how to raise kids who bring HOPE to a hurting world.

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October 10, 2023 By Kathryn

0 In 2023/ Family/ Inspiration/ Motherhood

10 Ways to Help Our Kids Be More Grateful

.Gratitude is a fundamental aspect of emotional intelligence and well-being, and teaching it to children can have long-lasting positive effects on their development and outlook on life.

When you are grateful, an invisible blanket of peace covers you … it makes you happy, strong and warm.
Om Swami

Cultivating a heart of gratitude in our children begins when we model what that looks like.

Here are 10 ways to cultivate GRATITUDE in our children:

Model It: Children often learn by observing the behavior of adults and caregivers in their lives. If you consistently express gratitude for the things you have and the actions of others, your children are more likely to emulate this behavior.
Talk about It: Verbalize your feelings of gratitude regularly. When you thank others for their kindness or acknowledge the positive aspects of your life, you demonstrate to your children the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the good things.
Teach the Value of Effort: Help children understand that many things they enjoy in life, whether it’s a meal, a clean home, or a loving family, require effort and work. Show them how to appreciate the effort that goes into providing these things.
Encourage Reflection: Encourage your children to reflect on what they’re thankful for. This can be done through simple conversations, a gratitude journal, or asking them about the best part of their day. This practice helps them become more aware of the positive aspects of their lives.
Give Back: Engage in activities that involve giving back to the community or helping those in need. Volunteering as a family can be a powerful way to show children the value of gratitude and compassion for others.
Limit Materialism: In a consumer-driven world, it’s important to teach children that happiness doesn’t come solely from acquiring material possessions. Emphasize experiences, relationships, and non-material aspects of life as sources of fulfillment and gratitude.
Be Patient: Developing a sense of gratitude is a process that takes time. Children may not always express gratitude naturally, so be patient and provide gentle guidance.
Avoid Comparisons: Discourage comparisons with others, as this can lead to envy and entitlement. Instead, focus on individual growth and the unique circumstances that make each person’s life special.
Celebrate Achievements: When your children show gratitude or acts of kindness, celebrate and reinforce these behaviors. Positive reinforcement can motivate them to continue being appreciative and kind.
Correct Missteps: If your child displays ingratitude or entitlement, use these moments as teaching opportunities rather than scolding. Explain why their behavior is not aligned with gratitude and help them understand the impact of their actions on others.

Incorporating these practices into your parenting can help instill a sense of gratitude in your children, which can contribute to their emotional well-being, resilience, and the development of positive relationships throughout their lives. Remember that modeling gratitude isn’t just about teaching a behavior; it’s about nurturing a mindset that can lead to a happier and more fulfilling life.

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.
Psalm 107:1

Here’s an excellent, faith-based parenting *book on gratitude, full of practical applications and real-life stories:

How to Find Joy in the Mess of Motherhood

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*Affiliate link

September 28, 2023 By Kathryn

0 In 2023/ Faith/ Family/ Memories

Celebrating the life of my Grandpa, Ned Freeman: Palm Tree Eulogy

On May 24, 2023 my grandfather finished his race and peacefully passed from earth into heaven as he held my sister’s hand. I was honored to be asked to speak at his funeral, and here is some of what I shared:

My favorite memories of my grandfather are our trips to Florida.

I remember feeling pure joy when we’d cross the Florida state line and spot the first PALM TREE. They would be standing tall, waving and welcoming us in. The palm tree reminded us to breathe deep, relax and enjoy time together.

I’ve always had a special place in my heart for palm trees, partially because we never see them in the midwest, they represent WARM WEATHER and family time, but also because they remind me of my grandfather.

As I thought about the palm tree, I realized it represents who my grandfather was and some of what he taught me.

Palm trees are unique in that they have inner strength that is unlike any other tree. Instead of trying to stand firm and rigid like the other trees, the palm tree sways with the wind. The palm tree’s flexible, almost elastic structure allows it to bend with the force of the winds and sway right back into place once the winds and storm pass. The palm tree’s roots actually get stronger with every storm it endures.

Just like the palm tree, my grandfather wasn’t about outer adornment, he focused on strengthening his inner core. That inner strength came from his faith in Jesus.

In life, there are times where he stood firm on his convictions, but he also knew how to be flexible, how to show grace, forgiveness and love.

I am a better person because I was loved by Grandpa Ned.

My grandfather taught me that the combination of inner strength along with flexibility (or grace), are the keys for enduring the tests and trials of life’s storms. He taught me that no matter how big the storm may seem, storms don’t last forever. And we serve a God who is bigger than any storm.

Storms made my grandfather stronger because he sought God’s wisdom and planted his roots in the soil of faith in Jesus.

When you see a PALM TREE, I hope you remember him. May it remind us of his inner strength and his grace, and may you consider how you can show that grace, forgiveness and love to others.

Eulogy by Kathryn Egly, June 1, 2023

Read his obituary here.

Click here to read a post about his wife, my grandma Alma.

September 21, 2023 By Kathryn

0 In 2023/ Family/ Memories

Celebrating the life of Alma Freeman, my grandmother

“It was a summer of good-byes, see you laters, reunions and releases.”
– Kara Huey

Family gathered to celebrate – aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, dad and sisters

We said good-by to our beloved grandfather at the beginning of the summer, and goodbye to our Grandma Alma at the end of this summer. Alma Jean Riley Freeman lived from June 21, 1932 until August 30, 2023 (91 years). Ned Wayne Freeman lived from December 30, 1930 until May 24, 2023 (92 years). My grandparents were married for 70 years!

Grandparents play a vital role in shaping a child’s life. They create lasting memories and engage in unique conversations that stand apart from interactions with any other individual. Grandparents contribute significantly to a child’s character development, reinforcing essential values and making priceless investments in their grandchildren’s well-being.

I’m so thankful for the years I had with my grandparents. Here are some of my favorite memories with them:

Trips to Florida, especially the ones that included a visit to Disney World.
I was the only grandchild that joined them for one “art-buying” trip. With their many grandchildren, this was an honor! My grandparents bought me a piece of art, and had the artist sign it. My grandfather brought it home and framed it for me.
One morning my grandmother took me to breakfast and let me order a strawberry Sundae. My eight-year old heart and mind (and stomach), thought this was the best breakfast ever.
At age 17, I got in a car accident while driving to school in the snow. My parents were both out of town so my grandparents were the first ones to arrive after the accident, making sure I was okay and helping navigate what to do.
My high school graduation “Open House” was in my grandparent’s home. They allowed approximately one hundred people to trek in and around their property all day without any complaints – only support for their new high school graduate and all her friends.

The art piece that my grandparents bought and grandpa framed.

A pictures i found at my grandparents house, taken at my high school open house, on their deck.

Today I’d love to share the beautiful eulogy written by my dad to honor his mom (my grandma).

My dad used four words that describe my grandmother:

Determination
Decision
Décor
Devotion

The remaining post was written by my dad, regarding his mom, my grandma Alma.

DETERMINATION

My mom was born in Jackson County, Kentucky in 1932 in the most humble and primitive conditions. A small cabin with no indoor plumbing. It took determination for her to become an owner of multiple businesses and own a beautiful home on Indiana’s largest natural lake.

DECISION

In the mid 1960s we attended Eel River Baptist Church. One Sunday morning with my grandparents, dad and family present, mom got up from the pew and went forward to choose a life of faith in Jesus.

The impact for me was profound and I still relive those moments with the sun shining thru the large stained-glass window of the church.

While our lives are filled with many decisions, that is the single most important decision we can all make: to become a follower of Jesus.

DECOR

Mom was a perfectionist and it showed in her work. The decorating details and standards are beyond what most of us know. The funeral room (where we celebrated her life) was one example of her handiwork; from wall decor to the large window treatments. Her decorating business became so large and popular, the business eventually evolved into mainly decorating, including fine art and antiques because of her amazing talent to improve people’s lives with her unique creative touch.

My grandma had a great sense of style. This was her snowmobile suit from approximately 1960!

DEVOTION

My mother’s devotion was unwavering. She was with dad over 71 years. She could not swim but owned over a dozen boats! Why? Because of her devotion to my dad who loved boats.

She was always in my corner .. correcting me when she thought I needed it, but caring and loving me both near and far. When I lived alone out east in a small, one bedroom apartment, she and dad appeared one day with a small Christmas tree to decorate and celebrate.

A year or two later on Long Island, I found myself in a hurricane. The phone rang and it was my mom, making sure I was safe. She was devoted for her family.

Determination, Decision, Décor and Devotion are just four small words that summarize one big, adventure-filled life that my mom lived. Thank you for celebrating her with us today.

My last visit with both of my grandparents during the summer of 2022:

My last visit with grandma, July 2023 (pictured with Paul, who took the afternoon away from swimming and spending time with cousins to spend time with grandma. Paul felt like it might be our last visit with her):

September 12, 2023 By Kathryn

1 In 2023/ Memories/ Peek into our Week

Summer Highlights!

It started with a 5th grade graduation:

Luke’s not enjoying summer vacation at all:

George and Paul finished soccer, Clark wrapped up basketball, and Luke finished baseball.

We enjoyed a visit from Ted’s parents (Nana and Papa):

We spent time with family in Indiana:

A video to highlight our week:

The boys met a Youtuber (Danibob) and spent some time in her studio:

I got to catch up with some friends from childhood:

We made a quick stop to see friends in Illinois:

My second book was published! Click here to get a copy!

I’m so grateful that my mom (grandma) came to visit!

We celebrated 5 years in Minnesota! Each year we celebrate by going out to breakfast and talking about highs, lows, and memories from the year.

And we could never forget about Wrigley. He is so well loved in our home.

What are some of your favorite memories from summer? Leave me a comment!

August 21, 2023 By Kathryn

0 In 2023/ Book Review/ Inspiration/ Minnesota/ Peek into our Week/ Raising boys

“The Great Lake Rescue” Book Launch Party Recap

On Sunday we introduced “The Great Lake Rescue” to our community by hosting an Ice Cream Book Launch party. The event took place at our local park. Our invitations were sent to array of friends, classmates, and the esteemed illustrator.

Here’s what happened:

3:00

Ice Cream Sundaes, Root Beer Floats and Popsicles
Meet the Author and Illustrator
Opportunity to Purchase and Obtain Autographed Copies of the Book
Children’s Drawing Contest with Exciting Giveaways
Coloring Station, featuring custom sheets crafted by the illustrator

4:00

Meet the Four Main Characters – the Egly boys
Live Book Reading
Q and A with the Author and Main Characters

4:40

Giveaways Announced and Prizes Given

4:45

Final Opportunity to Purchase and Obtain Autographed Copies of the Book

Even with the rain, over 100 people came! The boys, the book, and I felt incredibly loved. One thing that really stands out to me about Minnesotans is how they don’t let the weather bother them. Rain, heat, or freezing cold, they still go out and enjoy life without hesitation.

I forgot to ask someone to take photos of the event so I didn’t get pictures of everything and everyone, including the illustrator, Alyssa Whetstone. However, here are a few that others snapped and sent to me: