January has truly felt longer than ever, and in this episode, Jesse and I are back to reflect on the wild start to our year. From celebrating 22 years of marriage and 20 years of parenting to taking on unexpected challenges (including a basketball injury that led to a surprise concussion diagnosis and a late-night flood in our home), we have really had no shortage of adventures!

Listen in as we share what we learned from Silas’s recovery process, how Tennessee’s concussion laws helped us with his school accommodations, and why this experience gave us a fresh perspective on parenting, patience, and gratitude.

We also touch upon an unexpected upside to our household flood (my decluttering goal for the year got a big boost!) and discuss a book that has deeply challenged me to rethink family rhythms and intentional parenting. Jesse also shares what he has been reading lately, from Civil War history to a fascinating biography about former president Teddy Roosevelt.

Since big milestones naturally bring about reflection, Jesse and I also take a moment to look back on our marriage and how we have grown over the years - what we have learned about communication, grace, and the little things that keep a relationship strong, even when there is chaos! Whether you are here to hear us share some life updates, book recommendations, or just a little encouragement, we hope that you will take away something meaningful in today’s episode!

In This Episode

[0:35] - We are reflecting on 22 years of marriage and 20 years of parenting!

[2:29] - Silas suffered a basketball accident, requiring hospital visits and later revealing concussion symptoms.

[4:10] - Hear how Silas struggled with a math quiz, leading to a concussion diagnosis and recovery restrictions.

[5:39] - Silas struggled with boredom during recovery but was ultimately cleared for school with accommodations.

[8:33] - Hear how a bathroom flood accelerated my decluttering goal, though we had to discard many items.

[10:42] - We are grateful for minimal damage after the flood, again having used it as an opportunity to declutter.

[12:57] - Jesse has struggled to resume reading but has enjoyed historical fiction, especially books on Civil War battles.

[14:52] - I am enjoying the book Habits of the Household and find it challenging and convicting in family rhythms.

[17:00] - I appreciate the book’s flexible approach to family rhythms, focusing on intentionality and grace.

[18:67] - We segue into parenthood, with Jesse expressing that parenting lessons must be learned through experience, not advice or hindsight.

[19:35] - David’s progress has helped me change perspective, celebrating messes as signs of growth and learning.

[22:23] - I value the importance of perspective, teaching her kids that accidents aren’t worth stressing over.

[24:00] - Micah offered a sincere apology about something which reminded me of life’s gifts of grace and love.

[27:32] - Jesse admits to struggling with apologizing but sees humility as important for personal growth.

[28:08] - I highlight owning one’s actions in marriage and communication, avoiding silent treatment, and always learning!

Links & Resources

Crystal Paine

Books

The Killer Angels: The Classic Novel of the Civil War (Civil War Trilogy) by Michael Shaara

Gods and Generals: A Novel of the Civil War (Civil War Trilogy) by Jeff Shaara

Habits of the Household: Practicing the Story of God in Everyday Family Rhythms by Justin Whitmel Earley

Films

Gettysburg

Social Media

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)

Crystal Paine on LinkedIn

Crystal Paine on Twitter

Crystal Paine on Goodreads

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