Kathy Marler is a friend and mentor and above all a woman I deeply admire! In a world where families are often geographically and emotionally scattered, she and her husband have raised their family in a way that has encouraged their children and grandchildren to stay both physically and emotionally close to them and to each other. Together, we discuss how to foster emotional closeness with children and grandchildren, the value of living near extended family, and how to make thoughtful decisions about where to build a life. This conversation is especially meaningful to me because these are questions that I'm actively contemplating for my own life and family.

Thank you to Designed by Nature for sponsoring this episode! Use code ABBY at designed-by-nature.com for 20% off your order.

To join in these conversations, follow Camaraderie on Instagram @camaraderiepod.

When my friend Taylor made a Mother's Day post about advice she'd give her younger, newly-married self I knew I had to invite her on Camaraderie! In this episode, Taylor Larson shares how putting the Lord first ultimately allows her to slow down, give herself grace, and prioritize her husband and children.

You can follow Taylor on Instagram at @the_wildflower_and_the_cactus.

Thank you to Designed by Nature for sponsoring this episode! Use code ABBY at designed-by-nature.com for 20% off your order.

To join in these conversations, follow Camaraderie on Instagram @camaraderiepod.

My mom has moved over 30 times in her life and through her life experience has truly become an expert in making herself at home wherever she is. In this episode, Leslie Butikofer shares with us what she believes "home" and "homemaking" really mean, how to create a community for yourself and your family in a new place, and the intentional work of homemaking beyond just a physical house. This conversation is for anyone who has ever felt uprooted, lonely, far from home, or longing to create a deeper sense of belonging wherever they are.

Thank you to Designed by Nature for sponsoring this episode! Use code ABBY at designed-by-nature.com for 20% off your order.

Learn more about Scruffy Hospitality (what Leslie refers to as "scruffy entertaining") in this article from Martha Stewart.

To join in these conversations, follow Camaraderie on Instagram @camaraderiepod.

Getting a pet doesn’t always get the same level of thought and intention as other big family decisions, but I believe that it should! Erin Nelson, The Dog Consultant, has built her career around helping families find the perfect dog and dog breed for them. In this episode, she shares with us how to know if your family is ready for a pet, what sort of dog breed is right for you, how to identify an ethical breeder, and even some less common dog breeds who are perfect for family life.

To schedule a consultation with Erin, message her at @thedogconsultant or email her at [email protected].

To join in these conversations, follow Camaraderie on Instagram @camaraderiepod.

Thank you for being here!

Welcome to Camaraderie! In this episode, host Abby Lehnig introduces herself and Camaraderie.