0 In 2024/ Faith/ Friendship/ Inspiration

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

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.

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.

The words we speak DEFINE us.

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.

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.

3. Step out of your comfort zone

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.

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

Bob Goff

4. Digital Detox

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).

5. Be Curious, Not Judgmental

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!

Questions/Comments to Foster Understanding

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.

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.

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!

Click here to join an “Election Season Kindness Challenge”

Click here to read 6 lessons I learned last year

September 22, 2024 By Kathryn

0 In 2024/ Inspiration/ Joy/ Parent Tip

The ABCs of Gratitude

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.

How to do the ABCs of Gratitude:

Gather Supplies: Grab some paper, colorful markers or crayons, and find a comfortable spot to sit together.
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.
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!
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.
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.

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…

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.

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!

Click here for the Thanksgiving version of the ABCs.

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

Thanks for reading and please consider subscribing.

August 23, 2024 By Kathryn

0 In 2024/ Faith/ Inspiration/ Motherhood/ My Journey/ Parent Tip

Meditation: An antidote for anxiety!

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.

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:

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.

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

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!

Book Recommedations:

“Reclaim Your Brain” by Dr. Joseph A. Annibali. A science-based book filled with interesting stories, data, and research on how the mind works.
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry By John Mark Comer. A faith based book with simple strategies to reduce hurry and increase peace.

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.

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

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.

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 Kathryn

0 In Faith/ Family/ Inspiration/ Memories/ My Journey/ Raising boys

9-1-1 Emergency: The Hunt for My Son

“This is 9-1-1, what’s your emergency?” the man on the phone asked calmly.

“I’ve lost my son,” I stuttered between heavy, anxious breaths.

Paul was only 4. We had finished shopping and I asked him to climb into his car seat while I loaded our groceries. When I came around to buckle Paul into his seat, he wasn’t there.

“Paul?” I asked. No answer.

“Paul?” I said a little louder. No answer.

I looked inside the car. No Paul. I looked under the car. No Paul. I did a lap around my car. No Paul.

My heart was beating fast. I’m trying not to panic.

“Did you see a little boy with a red shirt?” I ask a woman getting into a car nearby. She shook her head no.

“I can’t find my son.” I say to people in the parking lot. No one has seen him.

A lady kindly offers to watch my other kids while I search for Paul.

I run back into the grocery store while scanning the parking lot. I see cars leaving and hope that Paul is not in one them. “Has he been kidnapped?” I think, terrified.

I look inside the grocery store. No Paul.

The store manager sends staff out to help find my son and I decide it’s time to call 911, “What’s your emergency?”

“I’ve lost my son.” I respond, with panic in my voice.

While I answer the dispatcher’s questions, I suddenly remember to pray. I silently say, “God, you know where Paul is. Please show me what to do or where to look.” I pause, take a shaky breath and feel a prompt, “Go look in your car again.”

I’m still answering the dispatcher’s questions when I climb into my minivan to get a better look. I climb to the backseat, and look down onto the floor. That is where I found little Paul, curled up behind the back seat, hiding.

“I found him! I found him!” I cry to the dispatcher and to the kind woman still watching my other children.

The dispatcher tells me how happy he is and then reminds me to breathe.

I hang up, take a deep breath and ask Paul what he’s doing curled up in the back of the car.

“I’m playing hide-and-seek with you Mommy!” he says with a big smile.

“Paul, please tell me we are playing hide-and-seek BEFORE you hide next time! I thought I lost you and I was scared.”

“But you FOUND me mom,” he playfully responds, full of joy.

I give him a hug and buckle him into his seat. I thank the kind woman watching my other children and get them buckled in too. As I climb into my seat and turn on the car, I notice I’m shaking. I take some deep breaths and pause to thank God for keeping Paul safe and helping me find him.

_______

Reflecting on, and writing this story, brought up all the feelings from that day – both the horror and fear I felt as I frantically searched for Paul, and the relief of finding him and the joy of answered prayer.

More importantly, on this day I had a clearer understanding and appreciation of how Jesus Christ pursued me when I was lost. Though, like Paul, I did not know I was lost, He found me. In His presence I found peace, acceptance, joy, unconditional love, purpose and LIFE.

In the book of Luke, chapter 15, Jesus tells a story about a lost sheep. A lost sheep in the wilderness is doomed. It has no protection and it would be only a short time before the coyotes or other predators would attack and kill it.

The Bible calls Jesus our Good Shepherd and says we are His sheep. If we are wandering this earth without allowing Him to guide us, we are easy targets for the enemy’s attack.

Just as I searched for my son, this story emphasizes the Shepherd’s relentless pursuit of us. In fact, the story shares how the Shepherd left the 99 sheep in his flock to find the ONE missing sheep.

I left my other sons to search for Paul because of my love and care for him. Jesus, our Good Shepherd, seeks us, His lost sheep – a pursuit fueled by love. The story in Luke 15 says that the Shepherd had “exuberant joy” when He found the lost sheep. He carried it to safety with “careful delight” (Luke 15:5 TPT).

As a Christ follower, I understand that my connection with God is not a result of my own pursuit but a response to the Him seeking me. In life’s chaos, we often find ourselves lost and yearning for a connection, and it’s through faith in Jesus that we find direction, protection, and unconditional love.

As we navigate life’s twists and turns, please know that just like a loving parent, God is continuously seeking you, inviting you into the warmth of His love. May you be found by Him and rest in His warm presence and careful delight.

Prayer:

“Dear Jesus, thank you for pursuing me with your love. May I be found by you and follow you all the days of my life. May I pause and remember you throughout my day and allow you to lead me. You are the Great Shepherd who leads with love toward peace, joy, and fulfillment. Amen.”

Verses to consider:

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

Psalm 23:1-4

For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.
Isaiah 41:13

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.
Psalm 32:9

April 23, 2024 By Kathryn

0 In Book Review/ Inspiration

5 Inspiring Books to Read for Women’s History Month

Hey there, bookworms! I’m excited to share on some amazing books about remarkable women from history. These are regular women doing seemingly small stuff that ends up changing the world. Thanks to Janet Benge’s fantastic biographies, we get a front-row seat to tales of grit, courage, and downright heroism. These women prove that you don’t need a cape to be a hero; everyday actions can rewrite history. So, grab your favorite blanket, a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into these stories that’ll leave you feeling inspired and ready to conquer the world. Who’s eady to join me on this literary adventure?

Note: If you have a library card, you can download the Hoopla app, and listen to all of these for free.

Clara Barton

Once a painfully timid child, Clara was as bold as a lion when it came to helping others, whether working as a teacher with the most challenging children, helping natural-disaster victims, or comforting dying soldiers.

Clara fought for U.S. approval of the Geneva treaty for the care of war wounded, organized the American Red Cross, and dedicated her life to its service. Her courage and compassion impacted thousands of people around the globe – black and white, Christian and Muslim, Spanish and American, Confederate and Union. An incredible story of service and sacrifice (1821-1912).

Harriet Tubman

From the time she was 6, Harriet resolved to escape slavery and move north. Little did this little girl know that one day, she would lead hundreds of slaves to freedom on the Underground Railroad.

Even huge rewards for her capture – dead or alive – did not stop Harriet from risking her life again and again in the fight for liberty as the nation spiraled into the Civil War. Whether running from slave hunters, advising generals, or improving conditions in war hospitals, remarkable Harriet Tubman would not be satisfied until every person could experience true freedom. (1820-1913)

Gladys Aylward

Gladys started life as a servant for wealthy families. While at a meeting, she became convinced that God wanted her to go to China. She knew no Chinese, had no contacts in China, and flunked out of a China mission school. Gladys saved up her money and bought a one-way ticket to China. She stood up for women’s rights, inspired prison reform, started a small business, adopted orphans, and won the respect of government officials and civilians alike. Her work in China continues to this day. (1902-1970)

Corrie Ten Boom

Corrie Ten Boom was an ordinary watchmaker’s daughter when her family was arrested for helping Jewish people hide from the Nazis. They were taken to prison and suffered greatly under the hands of their captors. This book tells how Corrie survived the war and went on to help others by telling them about God’s love and forgiveness. (1892-1983)

Amy Carmichael

Amy, a compassionate woman, dedicated her life to caring for those in need. Initially residing in an English slum, she assisted impoverished women until her health deteriorated. In response to a call, she ventured to a mission hospital in India where she uncovered a distressing reality – baby girls being given away as gifts to temples for forced prostitution. Appalled by this, Amy adopted these girls and established an orphanage, eventually becoming a mother to over 100 girls. As boys joined the fold, she expanded her care to 80 of them and even built a home and a hospital.

At the age of 63, a severe fall left Amy mostly incapacitated and bedridden for the remaining 20 years of her life. Despite her physical limitations, she continued leading her family from her bedside, and prolifically writing books and letters to those around the world. She published 35 pieces of work.

Don’t these women sound inspiring? And I love that they each started with a simple beginning, responded to a need, and left a big impact on so many lives. (1867-1951)

Happy Women’s History Month!

Click here for four of my favorite parenting books.

March 8, 2024 By Kathryn

0 In Inspiration/ Joy

50 Simple Ways to Find Joy (& Delight) in the New Year

If you’re anything like me, finding joy in January might be a struggle. The holiday cheer is gone, the thermometer has plummeted, and it’s a daily struggle to peel ourselves from the cozy cocoon of blankets. But fear not! Amidst the frosty gloom, JOY can still be found. I am your joy detective, here to uncover the gems that winter has in store for us. Let the January joy hunt begin!

You must arrange your day so that you experience deep contentment, joy and confidence in your everyday life with God.
– Dallas Willard

Here are 50 little things that can bring BIG joy:

A hot beverage on a cold morning
The first bite of something delicious
Relaxing after hard work
Laughter
Taking a walk in nature and breathing in the fresh, cold air
Listening to a great song
Thinking “I’ve done good work today!”
Spending time with people you love
Saving money
Prayer / Thinking about God
Singing along to a song you love
Watching kids play (or playing with them!)
Petting a dog
Reflecting on a happy memory
Completing something I feel good about
Giving time to something that’s important to you
Smelling a candle or warm soup
Watching my team win
Listening to a funny comedian
Giving (or receiving) a compliment
Learning something new
Watching a sunrise or sunset
Looking at the moon or stars
Finding something you needed to buy, on sale
Selling something
Social networking
Playing in the snow
Soaking in a tub or sauna
Catching up with an old friend
A great find at a thrift store
Getting a card or letter in the mail
Someone smiling at you
Driving and getting all the green lights
Feeling inspired by something you read or hear
Making a gratitude list
Wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket
Dressing up and looking good
Dressing ‘down’ and feeling good
Making cookies and sharing them
A simmering pot of homemade soup
Playing a game with family or friends
Watching birds eat from a bird feeder
Putting your cold feet into warm socks or soft slippers
Crawling into bed after a busy day
Getting a good night’s sleep
Giving or receiving good news
Taking a deep breath
Putting something on your calendar that you are excited about
Forgiving or being forgiven
Feeling LOVED

I hope this list sparked JOY and made you smile.

May 2024 be the year of JOY as you SLOW DOWN and pay attention to the small pleasures of life, and truly savor them.

Two things I would add to my personal list:

51. New subscribers! Please consider subscribing if you haven’t already.

52. Receiving an email or comment from a reader about how something impacted them.

What would you add to the JOY list? Please leave a comment by clicking that little box next to the title.

January 18, 2024 By Kathryn

4 In 2023/ Faith/ Family/ Finding our place/ Inspiration/ Joy

6 Lessons I Learned in 2023

When I was planning this post, I really wanted to write ’23 things I learned in ’23.’ That was taking too long to write and some you wouldn’t care about anyway. (I mean, do you really want to know what apps I learned to use to help me connect with my child’s school?) I decided to SCALE back and focus on what I learned that impacted my life in a positive way, and might be useful for you too.

Lessons I learned in 2023:

1. Smile when things are hard. It makes it easier!

On a psychological level, smiling can trick your mind into perceiving the difficulty as more manageable. The act of smiling is known to release endorphins, which are feel-good hormones that contribute to an improved mood and reduced stress levels. P.S. Try it during a test, when you are angry or when working out. Read more here.

2. Make space for QUIET.

Quiet allows your mind to process what you are thinking and feeling. It moves out some of the ‘sludge’ from constant noise and busyness. It also opens up time for prayer and reflection. Being quiet allowed me to be more ‘present’ – to God, to myself, and to others.

“The noise of the modern world makes us deaf to the voice of God, drowning out the one input we need most.”
– John Mark Comer

3. Do ONE thing at a time.

I’m a serial mulit-tasker. In 2023, I learned that doing ONE thing at a time was more effective than doing multiple things poorly.

4. Slow down and pay attention to what is happening in the moment.

All the best stuff happens in the present and I don’t want to miss all the little moments of JOY.

5. Less input leads to better output.

In 2023 I learned that reducing the amount of input enhances the quality of output. Previously, I would consume up to 60 books a year and listen to countless podcasts. However, in 2023, I deliberately scaled back. This shift has allowed me the time to process and apply what I’ve learned. Creating this mental space has not only fueled my ideas, but also increased my motivation for writing, speaking, and teaching.

6. Change might seem too big and too hard, do it anyway.

When we began talking about moving to a different house, I was hesistant. I didn’t want to leave my comfort zone, the work involved with moving seemed overwhelming, and I was distraught over leaving our wonderful neighborhood. After lots of discussion, prayer and planning – we sold our house and bought another. The change turned out to be exactly what we needed. It was a LOT of work. It was really heard to say goodbye to our amazing neighbors, but the change was exactly what we needed for our family. And, it didn’t just take me out of my comfort zone, it EXPANDED my comfort zone. We’ve met so many new friends, while staying connected to our old ones. It made me (and all of us) a little more adaptable to different situations. Embracing change, though challenging, proved worthwhile.

Those were a handful of the many lessons I learned in 2023. Which of these should you practice in 2024?

What did you learn in 2023? Leave a comment by clicking on that little text box by the title of this post!

Thanks for reading and subscribing.

January 8, 2024 By Kathryn

2 In 2023/ Family/ Inspiration/ Memories

Egly Family Updates and the Top Ten Most Popular Posts of 2023

2023 was full of goodness and growth!

George is thriving on the soccer field and an excellent new driver!
Clark is constantly generating new business ideas. He’s also enjoying travel basketball.
Paul is doing well with travel soccer and wrestling. He’s always up for a chat or debate.
Luke is dabbling in several sports. He’s an adventurous soul and always laughing.

Meanwhile, Ted is thriving at Target, making waves and leaving positivity in his wake. As for me, I’m substitute teaching at the boys’ schools. I also get the honor of writing for this blog as well as guest posting for others. My second children’s book, “The Great Lake Rescue,” was published in July!

Our furry family member, Wrigley, turned three this year. He’s officially earned the title of “World’s Best Dog,” bringing joy, laughter, and a whole lot of slobbery tennis balls into our lives.

We’ve moved again! We haven’t traded the Land of 10,000 Lakes for a tropical paradise. Nope, we’re still proudly repping Minnesota. We found a home that suits our tribe better, with less of a commute for Ted.

And now, here are the …

TOP TEN MOST POPULAR BLOG POSTS OF 2023

Was there a post that resonated with you this year? I’d love to hear. You can leave a comment by clicking on that little comment box by the title.

Our family wishes you JOY for the New Year!

Thank you for being a loyal reader and subscriber.

December 26, 2023 By Kathryn

0 In Family/ Inspiration/ Joy/ Raising boys

15 BiG Benefits of a Simple Smile!

Smiling offers a wide range of physical, psychological, and social benefits. Here are 15 benefits of lifting those cheeks and showing the world your smile:

1. Improved Mood: Smiling can trigger the “feel-good” hormones, which can instantly boost your mood.

Our joy causes us to SMILE, but did you know that smiling actually causes you to feel more joy?! You can’t smile on the outside without feeling better on the inside.

2. Stress Reduction/Mental Health: Smiling, even when you don’t initially feel like it, can lower stress levels by reducing the release of cortisol, a stress hormone.

3. Pain Relief: Endorphins released through smiling can act as natural painkillers.

4. Better Health: A positive outlook and reduced stress can strengthen the immune system, making you more resilient to illnesses.

5. Better Relationships: Smiling is a universal sign of friendliness and approachability. It can improve relationships.

6. Makes you Prettier/More Handsome: People tend to find those who smile more attractive and likable.

7. Better Communication: A smile conveys warmth and connection, making you a more effective and engaging communicator.

8. Longevity: Research suggests that people with a positive outlook, often marked by smiling, tend to live longer and experience better overall health.

9. Conflict Resolution: When faced with conflicts, approaching the situation with a smile can make it easier to find common ground.

Peace begins with a smile.
-Mother Teresa

10. Better Decision-Making: A positive mood from smiling can lead to more optimistic and rational decision-making.

11. Heart Health: Smiling may lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart-related conditions.

12. Enhanced Memory: A positive mood induced by smiling can improve memory retention and recall.

13. Snowball Effect: Your smile can have a contagious effect, brightening the mood of those around you. Smile first!

14. Improved Confidence: Regular smiling can boost self-esteem and self-confidence, leading to a more positive self-image.

15. Promotion of Well-Being: Overall, the act of smiling contributes to a sense of well-being and a more optimistic outlook on life.

I hope you have a BIG SMILE on your face after reading these 15 amazing benefits!

Click here to read more how a SMILE impacts MOTHERHOOD!

Click here to read more Family Tips:

Family Tip #1 – Model Gratitude

Family Tip #2 – Play

Family Tip #4 – Teach your children how to introduce themselves

Family Tip #5 – Don’t Compare yourself with others

November 4, 2023 By Kathryn

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

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