I'm welcoming back a repeat guest this episode - Jennifer Pepito! Jennifer is the author of Habits for a Sacred Home: 9 Practices From History to Anchor and Restore Modern Families, and I have had the privilege of reading her insightful book which really resonated with me and challenged me to set up better habits and rhythms in our life!

Jennifer brings a wealth of experience, having homeschooled her seven children for 27 years! In this episode, we talk about the joys and challenges of motherhood she's experienced and what it's been like as her children have transitioned into adulthood.

We explore the significance of establishing habits that create a peaceful home environment and the importance of being present with our kids, even as they grow independent. Jennifer shares her thoughts on finding balance, letting go of perfectionism, and nurturing our children's development in a world that can feel chaotic at times. She emphasizes the need for mothers to have a solid sense of identity in Christ which allows them to stress less about things that don't matter and not try to find their identity in their children's behavior or choices.

Throughout the conversation, Jennifer also offers practical advice on creating daily routines that encourage connection and joy within the family. Plus, we touch on the delicate balance between guiding our children and allowing them the freedom to learn from their experiences!

Whether you’re navigating the early years of parenting, raising teens, and sending your kids into adulthood, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement, so please join Jennifer and me as we discover how small, intentional changes can lead to significant growth for both moms and their families!

In This Episode

[0:35] - I welcome back repeat guest Jennifer Pepito!

​​[1:24] - Jennifer shares a little about her family and her new book, Habits for a Sacred Home.

[4:26] - It's important to recognize both losses and gains when transitioning through life stages.

[5:36] - Jennifer advises young moms to focus on their identity in Christ and being present with their children.

[8:19] - Parenting teens requires maintaining values and visualizing positive outcomes for them.

[11:21] - Jennifer talks about showing grace without compromising values when children make choices we disagree with.

[14:48] - Younger moms: accept imperfection and focus on consistency and joy in parenting.

[17:59] - After experiencing a gap between older and younger kids, I have recognized the need for intentional routines.

[19:33] - Jennifer reflects on older kids caring for younger ones and emphasizes the importance of being committed to faithfulness.

[22:12] - I highlight the benefits of having a morning routine that starts the day positively and intentionally.

[24:48] - Jennifer's book connects Saint Benedict's rules to impactful historical women such as Edith Schaeffer and their ordinary lives.

[27:29] - I recall a lesson from a book about creating beauty in small ways to bring stability to chaotic lives.

[29:32] - Jennifer finds peace amidst chaos by reflecting on Psalm 37 and trusting God for better times ahead.

Links & Resources

Crystal Paine

The Crystal Paine Show - 180. Why You Should Read Aloud with Your Kids

Books

Habits for a Sacred Home: 9 Practices from History to Anchor and Restore Modern Families (Helping Moms Experience Peace & Return to Simple Daily Rhythms from Historic Christians like St. Benedict) by Jennifer Pepito

Selfish Reasons To Have More Kids by Bryan Caplan

The Hidden Art of Homemaking by Edith Schaeffer

Social Media

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)

Crystal Paine on LinkedIn

Crystal Paine on Twitter

Crystal Paine on Goodreads

Money Saving Mom

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Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group

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