A little over a year ago, we started fostering Baby D. In this episode, Jesse and I reflect on what we have learned and how we have grown this past year -- especially as it relates to parenting a child with Down syndrome and special needs. We share things we wish we had known, how our perspective has changed, and how we've seen God's faithfulness over and over again. We talk about the gift that this sweet boy has been in our lives and how he has taught us to slow down, savor life, and celebrate the little things. If you know someone who has a child with special needs, we hope that this episode will give you some insight into how to love them and walk with them better. In addition, Jesse and I talk about how he saved me out of a thunderstorm recently, a simple practice that makes such a difference in my days, some out-of-the-ordinary things our kids have been doing at school, and a book I've been listening to. In This Episode [00:34] - Welcome to another episode of The Crystal Paine Show. [01:40] - It's been a year since we said yes to Baby D! We want to share some of our reflections on this past year. [03:04] - Jesse sort of saved my life this week. [06:50] - It was an interesting week at our kids' school... [08:18] - This simple practice makes such a difference. [12:31] - I have been listening to the new book by Katherine Reay. [15:45] - Reflecting on one year with Baby D. [22:04] - How he has taught us so much about having empathy and compassion. [25:22] - Show value, even if it feels awkward or uncomfortable. [29:10] - Give your kids opportunities to interact with people who are different than them. Links & Resources  Books The London House by Katherine Reay Dear Mr.Knightley by Katherine Reay Programs Libby/Overdrive, free public library app Special Mentions GetUpside App -- earn cash back for buying gas Other Links Love-Centered Parenting 10 Days to Be a Happier Mom Sign up for the Hot Deals Email List MoneySavingMom.com My Instagram account (I’d love for you to follow me there! I usually hop on at least a few times per day and share behind-the-scenes photos and videos, my grocery store hauls, funny stories, or just anything I’m pondering or would like your advice or feedback on!) Have feedback on the show or suggestions for future episodes or topics? Send me an email: crystal @ moneysavingmom.com 

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Armoire: armoire.style/CRYSTAL
* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com
* Check out undefined and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: undefined 

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

161. Unexpected Lessons from Down Syndrome

The Crystal Paine Show is dedicated to helping you embrace life right where you are and take practical steps to get where you want to go. Crystal says, &#34;My hope is that this podcast will serve as an inspiration to your week, a pause in your day to slow down and reflect a little, a looked-forward-to part of your weekly routine, a place where we can connect on a deeper level… and ultimately, my desire is that you come away from listening to each episode feeling motivated to bloom where you are planted and take intentional steps to move in the direction you are longing to go.&#34; Crystal is a wife, mom of 6, foster/adoptive mom, speaker, New York Times bestselling author, and online entrepreneur, best known for founding MoneySavingMom.com.

Education

Training

Language Courses

Higher Education

K-12

Educational Technology

Kids & Family

Parenting

Self-Improvement

There are certain conversations and interviews that I know after having them, they will stick with me for a long time to come. This episode with Jessica Hurlbut, author of Unlimited Motherhood: Overcome 12 Limits That Overwhelm and Conflict Our Hearts, is one of those. It touched and challenged me deeply... and it wasn't just the interview with her that you'll hear at the link below, but also our time before and after the interview. Jessica just oozes with kindness and grace and Jesus and her book and her life and this interview inspired me  Jessica is mom of five and two of her children have severe autism and of her children were adopted through foster care. Jessica has a heart for families who have children with disabilities and a passion for foster care and adoption -- so we both have a lot of shared passion! One of the most touching parts of our conversation (and of her book) was Jessica's transparency about her struggles and her candidness about walking through what she calls the "hidden years of motherhood". For her, these were years filled with isolation and relentless difficulties, especially when it came to having multiple little ones, fostering, and learning to navigate having two children with autism. But it was during these times that she learned invaluable lessons about surrender, trust, and finding beauty in the unexpected. I can almost guarantee you that you'll be richly blessed by listening to this episode. Jessica's faith in the goodness of God -- despite the dark days of motherhood -- really convicted me! Jessica's insights and experiences will encourage you to lean into God's grace and trust Him even when things feel overwhelming. In This Episode[0:35] - Join me for this episode as I interview Jessica Hurlbut, author of Unlimited Motherhood! [1:33] - Jessica's journey of mothering children with autism, fostering, and then adopting two young children. [5:42] - What it was like to walk through eight isolating years as a stay-at-home mom to a child with autism. [9:33] - I ask Jessica to share how she grieved the loss of what she pictured her life would be. [11:58] - Our lives are almost always so much different than we envisioned, but also so much better. [17:11] - What faithfulness looks like in our every day lives. [18:07] - Motherhood isn't about controlling outcomes or being a supermom but is about learning deep trust in God. [22:47] - Jessica shares a powerful story of living radically courageous, even when other people didn't understand.  [26:39] - The story isn't tied up with a neat bow, but it's a reminder that God doesn't call us to success but to faithfulness.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksUnlimited Motherhood: Overcome 12 Limits That Overwhelm and Conflict Our Hearts by Jessica HurlbutSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook groupcrystal@moneysavingmom.com

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Armoire: armoire.style/CRYSTAL
* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com
* Check out undefined and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: undefined


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

262. What Autism Taught Me About Limits & the Goodness of God (with Jessica Hurlbut)

Recently, I mentioned something on Instagram about how having an adult child is wonderful and also there are new challenges as your kids get older and grow wings and fly. This resonated with so many people that I ended up turning my thoughts into an Instagram post. And then it inspired us to expand further on it in this week's podcast episode. We're just a year into having an adult child, but we wanted to share what we learned so far -- especially as we get ready to graduate another senior from high school!  In this episode, we talk about the ups and downs of watching our kids learn to navigate life on their own. We discuss things we are glad we did ahead of time and things we wish we had known. It’s such a joy to see them succeed and grow, but it’s also tough to watch them struggle and face hardships that we can’t fix for them. We share some of our experiences, some of the hard lessons, and the surprising things we've learned along the way. I hope this conversation encourages you, whether you’re about to launch your kids into adulthood, you already have launched them, or you’re right in the thick of parenting littles or tweens or teens.  We also discuss my goal for a “slowed-down summer” and what I've proactively put into place to make that happen. We also answer a question we kept getting about Jesse's To Do app, talk about a book I finished recently, and share some lessons we've learned about communication in marriage (please laugh -- this was such a rabbit trail!). Plus, I share a freebie with you -- 100 Free or Low Cost Summer Bucket List Ideas!In This Episode[0:35] - What we wish we knew before having an adult child, a topic inspired by an Instagram post. [1:35] - Hear about the phrase I chose for this summer. [3:52] - I recently read and loved Tired of Being Tired by Jess Connolly. [6:02] - Jesse shares what he loves about the Appigo Todo app. [8:50] - Challenges we've had in communication in our marriage and lessons we've learned. [13:13] - Learning to let go as a parent of an adult child can be one of the hardest things. [14:22] - The importance of letting kids handle challenges themselves when they are younger. [17:53] - Plus, teaching kids to be more self-sufficient involves giving them tools to confront problems. [20:01] - There is a time to say no and there is a time to express caution and let your child learn through experience. [24:03] - I describe how starting my day with a walk and prayer helps me support and connect with each of my kids. [26:18] - In closing, parenting older children is challenging but rewarding, reminding us to trust and rely on God. Links & Resources Crystal Paine Free Summer Bucket List Appigo Todo App Books Tired of Being Tired: Receive God’s Realistic Rest for Your Soul-Deep Exhaustion by Jess Connolly Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Armoire: armoire.style/CRYSTAL
* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com
* Check out undefined and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: undefined


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

261. Things We Wish We Knew Before Having an Adult Child

Myquillyn Smith was my very first in-person guest to ever have on the show -- back in 2018! (Listen to episode 12.) And because I loved the in-person experience so much, we decided to ultimately only have in-person guests on the podcasts! She's also someone I've known for years and years through blogging -- back before social media was even a thing! She has a brand-new book called, House Rules: How to Decorate for Every Home Style and Budget. It's a fun and very visual book with lots of practical inspiration (and pictures of her house!). I underlined and dog-eared so many pages in the book and loved getting to ask her to share more about some of my favorite parts of the book. Listen in as Myquillyn shares about why she wrote a book on rules (you'll breathe a sign of relief to know it's not going to be a rigid system but rather simple guidelines!), the importance of authenticity, and the power of starting with what you know. She also teaches us about the "Homey Trinity" and the significance of proper lighting and decor scale. And you'll be encouraged as she talks about how limitations can actually lead to creativity in unexpected ways. Plus, we discuss the concept of clutter and how to navigate the fine line between cozy and chaotic. We close this episode with me asking Myquillin what the hardest rule is for her to follow -- you might be surprised with her answer! Throughout the conversation, Myquillyn reminds us that our homes should serve us, not the other way around. I hope that this episode helps you to see and approach your home and decorating in a brand-new light!In This Episode[0:35] - Today’s guest is returning guest Myquillyn Smith! [2:02] - Myquillyn talks about how starting online was intimidating and why she originally went by the pseudonym of The Nester. [4:33] - Teaching decor involves guidelines, but breaking rules can enhance creativity and confidence. [7:29] - Do what you know, use what you have, and finish what you started with. [9:11] - Myquillyn advises starting with inspiration, creating a Pinterest board, and identifying the needs of a room for decorating confidently. [12:12] - You'll love this story of Myquillyn's fancy drapes and how she adapted them to better suit her casual lifestyle. [15:39] - When we find ourselves overly protective of our homes, it's a sign that something needs to change. [17:54] - Owning practical, easy-to-clean furniture allows freedom in enjoying and sharing your home. [19:29] - How to appreciate thrift store finds without feeling compelled to own them brings peace and contentment. [22:00] - The "Homey Trinity" of rugs, window treatments, and lighting. [25:30] - Myquillyn identifies her biggest struggle as items left on the floor becoming "unintended decor". [26:44] - Hear my solution to Myquillyn's challenge - keeping a dumpster in the garage for donations. [30:38] - Be sure to check out 10 Weeks to a More Organized Home, and use the code PODCAST at checkout!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineThe Crystal Paine Show - 12. How to Create a Home That Serves Your Family (with Myquillyn Smith)Myquillyn’s WebsiteMyquillyn’s Instagram PageMyquillyn’s Threads Page10 Weeks to a More Organized HomeBooksHouse Rules: How to Decorate for Every Home Style and Budget by Myquillyn SmithSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook groupcrystal@moneysavingmom.com

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Armoire: armoire.style/CRYSTAL
* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com
* Check out undefined and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: undefined


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

260. Simple Rules to Decorate Your Home No Matter Your Style or Budget (with Myquillyn Smith)

I recently shared a blog post on How to Graduate College Debt-Free. This post sparked so many discussions via comments and messages on my blog and through social media that I wanted to explore the topic more in-depth with Jesse on a podcast.  This is not a podcast saying that every single person should go to college with zero debt, nor is the purpose to heap shame and guilt on anyone who has college debt. Instead, our hope is just to challenge you to think outside the box a little and to share some strategies and inspiration for ways to save money on college. In this episode, we not only share personal experience from Jesse going to college and law school debt-free, but also from recent things we've learned from our girls. We discuss how it begins with mindset. If you don't believe you can do something or think something is not possible, there's a good chance you're not going to be very motivated to try. We then get really practical and dig into tips and ideas for spending less on college, how to plan ahead for college expenses, how to leverage scholarships, and ways that you can significantly lower college costs just by going a nontraditional route. I hope this episode inspires you with ideas, insights, and inspiration -- whether you are thinking of going back to college, have a child who will be starting college in the not-too-distant future, or you are just curious how it might be possible to get a college degree without debt. As always, we'd love to hear your feedback, ideas, and thoughts after you listen to the episode!In This Episode[0:35] - Today’s topic - getting a debt-free college education, was inspired by a blog post of mine. [2:27] - Belief in possibility is the initial step towards accomplishing anything. [7:33] - Debt relies on uncertain futures; prioritize your current affordability. [10:24] - Choosing in-state education and state scholarships drastically reduces college expenses. [13:21] - Community colleges offer more affordable Gen Ed credits, which can really help save money. [15:13] - Plan strategically and explore dual enrollment in high school + look into alternatives to living on campus. [18:48] - Many students transfer schools after the first year, indicating initial choices may not be your final choices. [21:45] - Challenge your own students to actively seek scholarships. Numerous opportunities exist, even for niche interests. [24:12] - Treat scholarship hunting as a part-time job, maximizing financial aid opportunities. [25:47] - Explore job opportunities offering tuition reimbursement or discounts, including college roles such as being an RA. [29:53] - A mindset shift with creative solutions helps pave the way for generational financial freedom.Links & ResourcesCrystal Paine Blog Post: How To Graduate College Debt-Free College of the Ozarks - “Graduate Debt Free”Social MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook groupcrystal@moneysavingmom.com

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Armoire: armoire.style/CRYSTAL
* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com
* Check out undefined and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: undefined


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

259. Going to College Debt-Free: Our Best Tips & Strategies

Today's episode is on a topic that was requested by a follower! Jesse and I share what it's been like navigating back-to-back senior years with our daughters, Kathrynne and Kaitlynn! It has been a whirlwind of emotions and logistics and Jesse and I are opening up about our experiences - the highs, the challenges, the blessings, and the unexpected lessons that we have learned along the way. Jesse and I share things we learned the hard way, how it's been different for each daughter, what has been easier about going through senior year the second time, and just fun insider information about the experiences that we haven't shared elsewhere online. Whether you have a senior or a child in high school or just are curious what we've learned, I hope that you enjoy listening to us share
In This Episode[0:35] - Jesse and I are talking today about having back-to-back seniors. [1:13] - I share insights from a devotional from a book, highlighting God's timing and unexpected blessings. [4:08] - Hear how I discovered unforeseen opportunities through MoneySavingMom.com. [7:03] - Be sure to follow @crystaliscleaning on Instagram! [9:04] - The challenges and emotional intensity of having two high school seniors in two years. [12:52] - Jesse finds our current senior year smoother compared to the previous one, crediting Kaitlynn's self-motivation. [13:44] - I reflect on simplifying preparations for Kaitlynn's graduation, learning from past experiences with Kathrynne. [22:18] - Encouraging preparedness and focusing on the next year makes for smoother transitions for children. [23:13] - Kaitlynn's openness to uncertainty and evolving plans for the future. [28:09] - What I'm learning about embracing the present while also thinking about the future.Links & Resources
LinksCrystal Paine Embraced: 100 Devotions to Know God Is Holding You Close by Lysa TerKeurst FREE Simplified Home ChecklistsSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook groupcrystal@moneysavingmom.com

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Armoire: armoire.style/CRYSTAL
* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com
* Check out undefined and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: undefined


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

161. Unexpected Lessons from Down Syndrome

Download our free app to listen on your phone