This week, I get to share a conversation I had recently with Sara Hagerty -- and it's one I think you'll love and be deeply inspired by! I know I was! Sara is the author of The Gift of Limitations: Finding Beauty in Your Boundaries and I resonated so deeply with her story and this book. In fact, it is my first 5-star read of 2024!

In this episode, Sara and I take a dive into her inspiring journey of facing limitations, from a challenging road to motherhood, 13 years of infertility, adopting four children, birthing 3 unexpected biological children, navigating a wide age range and seven kids, and dealing with chronic illness. Sara shares her wonderful wisdom on how to embrace and find beauty in the roadblocks, unexpected, and limitations of life.

We tackle tough questions and discuss the incredibly transformative power of acknowledging and grieving our limitations. Sara's insights into incorporating pauses into our daily lives and allowing God to work through our limitations rather than against them spoke deeply to my soul and it's something I've thought of multiple times since this interview. We also chat about the practical steps you can take to navigate the tension of feeling like there's not enough of you to go around and the importance of trusting God in those moments.

I hope this conversation helps to shift your perspective on limitations and reveal the unexpected gifts that they can bring. There can actually be blessing in boundaries!

In This Episode

[0:35] - I have Sara Hagerty in-studio today to talk about her book The Gift of Limitations!

[2:03] - Sara begins by diving into her journey and her experience with limitations in her life.

[4:03] - Despite chronic illness and years of infertility, Sara discovered God's presence in the now and urges others to live fully.

[7:06] - Sara discusses how motherhood presents challenges in balancing personal dreams.

[8:43] - How did Sara get to a place where she was able to accept her limitations?

[12:33] - Sara explains that taking a few minutes daily to sit in grief and then into God's comfort has helped her so much.

[13:41] - Naming and grieving underlying emotions in frustrating moments cultivates patience, easing family dynamics and expectations.

[16:21] - Amid life's chaos, being present requires addressing underlying narratives through reflective pauses.

[19:47] - The profound question of God's identity in our lives when one feels inadequate.

[23:48] - Allow God to work through life's limitations.

[27:50] - Don't push against limitations might hinder God's work.

Links & Resources

• Crystal Paine
• Sara Hagerty

Books

• The Gift of Limitations: Finding Beauty in Your Boundaries by Sara Hagerty

Social Media

• Crystal Paine on Instagram
• Crystal Paine on Twitter
• Crystal Paine on Goodreads
• Money Saving Mom
• Money Saving Mom on Facebook
• Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
• [email protected]

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Armoire and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://www.armoire.style
* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL
* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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

Join Jesse and I this week as we discuss the sensitive topic of losing and rebuilding trust with teens after they've broken it. Inspired by a question from an Instagram follower, I share insights on the importance of having conversations before resorting to consequences. We highlight the importance of seeking to understand our teens' perspectives (we don't have to agree with them, but I think we should make the effort to try to understand) and adjusting consequences based on their willingness to rebuild trust. Explaining the reasons behind trust issues, such as social media incidents or phone privileges, is crucial to demonstrate genuine concern for their well-being.

We also touch on the significance of conversations around privileges vs. rights and and fostering a culture of trust from a young age. We give you some practical tool for how to approach those difficult discussions and encourage you to stop, take a breath, and ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom before you begin. Knee-jerk reactions driven by fear, pride, or selfishness can lead to us building a wedge, being a bit ridiculous in doling out consequences, or just shutting down communication lines with our kids.

We also discuss the two-way street of building and maintaining trust, encouraging parents to invest time, keep promises, and set positive examples. We wrap up by emphasizing the importance of parental introspection, checking our hearts, and seeking guidance from the Lord.

For more encouragement, I highly recommend checking out my free online class: "10 Days to a Happier Mom," designed to help parents shift from frustration to a place of calmness and peace, ultimately parenting from a foundation of understanding how much you are loved by God and pursuing relationship with your kids instead of seeking to protect your reputation with others.

In This Episode

[0:35] - What do you do when your teens break trust?

[1:35] - We recently dealt with our first broken bone for one of our kids -- after 19 years of parenting!

[3:28] - I discuss a painful arm injury from my childhood that heightened my sensitivity to possible fractures in my children.

[12:16] - Am I actually considering becoming a gardener?? Or at least having a container garden??

[13:36] - I have been immersed in a book that has deeply resonated with me – Sara Hagerty's The Gift of Limitations.

[16:26] - Reflecting on trust challenges with children prompted deep contemplation after a question on Instagram.

[22:32] - Before addressing any anger that I might be feeling toward my child, stop and assess your heart.

[25:18] - Engaging in open conversations with our children about trust builds understanding and fosters growth.

[27:10] - Before implementing consequences, talk with your kids, ask curious questions, and lean in and listen to seek to understand your child's perspective.

[30:27] - Rebuilding trust is serious; show understanding, sadness, and love, and actively participate in rebuilding efforts mutually.

Links & Resources

• Crystal Paine
• Sign up for my 10 Days to a Happier Mom Challenge (it’s FREE!)

Books

• The Gift of Limitations: Finding Beauty in Your Boundaries by Sara Hagerty

Social Media

• Crystal Paine on Instagram
• Crystal Paine on Twitter
• Crystal Paine on Goodreads
• Money Saving Mom
• Money Saving Mom on Facebook
• Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
• [email protected]

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Armoire and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://www.armoire.style
* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL
* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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

It's the second week of February and Jesse and I are giving you an update on our 2024 goals! I try to stop at the end of every month and reflect on where I'm at, how I'm doing on my goals and habits, and what tweaks I need to make. 

Today we share what has worked so far this year, what's not working as well, and what we're learning. From hitting 47 hours of outdoor time in chilly January and making a habit of getting 90 grams of protein almost every day to struggling with turning off screens by 8:30 p.m., we dive into it and share honestly.

Jesse also provides us with some updates on his sleep, cold shower challenges, and exercise goals and we both talk about how we loving using the Strides app to stay on track. It's made such a difference for us and we'd highly recommend trying it out!

How are your 2024 goals going? We would love to hear from you, so drop me an email to share your wins, struggles, and everything in between. Let's make 2024 our best year yet!

In This Episode

[0:35] - Jesse and I are updating you on how our 2024 goals in this episode.

[1:31] - We joke about Jesse's new position as assistant coach.

[4:07] - All about our first two ABC Dates.

[8:05] - I just finished reading Words with God by Addison Bevere.

[9:28] - Hear what's saving my life this week!

[12:20] - I share an insightful email about nighttime phone use as we open our discussion on 2024 goals.

[15:21] - Balancing business tasks with sleep and shutting down my phone has been a challenge for me.

[17:26] - I discuss how I achieve my 90 grams of protein goal with a high-protein breakfast and strategic snacking.

[19:16] - Circadian rhythms, logging outdoor hours, and limiting sugar.

[22:27] - Jesse and I really enjoy using the Strides app!

Links & Resources

• Crystal Paine
• The Crystal Paine Show - 211. Trading Boring, Empty Prayer for Real Connection
• Money Saving Mom - My 22 Goals for 2024 (+my word for the year!)
• Strides App
• 10 Weeks of Money Saving Menus
• A Dress I’m Loving
• 
  
• Books
• Words with God: Trading Boring, Empty Prayer for Real Connection by Addison Bevere

Social Media

• Crystal Paine on Instagram
• Crystal Paine on Goodreads
• Money Saving Mom
• Money Saving Mom on Facebook
• Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
• [email protected]

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Armoire and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://www.armoire.style
* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL
* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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

This episode is perfect as we approach Valentine's Day... because every married person needs to listen to what Annie F. Downs shares in this episode. And all of the single people need to listen to this episode to be encouraged by Annie's story and life! 

Annie is the author of a number of books, including her newest children's book, So Happy to Know You! We talk about her days as a teacher that inspired this book, her heart behind writing this, and how God has given her so many opportunities to mother other children, even though she has never had children of her own.

You'll love Annie's stories of personal growth and how she's learned to acknowledge and embrace her unique personality. I loved when she shared how she got to give this book to a number of her former students and their kids!

One of the topics I really wanted to get to ask Annie about was singleness. I was so grateful she was willing to share her journey, her struggles, and how God has used this longtime longing of her heart to shape the way she lives and serves others. She recently started the Single Purpose League, a community to provide support and connection for single individuals, particularly within the church.

At the end of the conversation, Annie shares valuable insights on how married and single individuals can better understand and support each other and how the church can do a better job of walking with single people. I was so challenged and convicted by her words -- and it ended up opening some doors for me to have really valuable conversations with single people in my life. 

In This Episode

[0:35] - I am joined today by Annie Downs, author of the new children’s book So Happy to Know You!.

[1:30] - Annie shares her 12-year journey in writing, speaking, and podcasting since 2012.

[2:24] - Being a former teacher, Annie discusses her inspiration for children's books and connecting with former students.

[9:50] - We discuss how writing children's books is a form of mothering and walking alongside other parents.

[11:28] - Annie reflects on her unexpected life at 43 as a single adult and encourages people to pursue friendship across different life stages.

[16:39] - I ask Annie what she really wishes married people understood about those who are single. Her answer may surprise you!

[21:28] - How to live fully while still longing for what you don't have.

[25:35] - What it looks like to hold onto hope and why Annie makes sure to be close with married friends, not just single friends.

[30:02] - Annie talks about the unexpected creation of the Single Purpose League and its purpose.

[35:45] - How can the church do a better job of walking alongside those who are single?

Links & Resources

• Crystal's website
• Annie's website
• Follow Annie on Instagram
• That Sounds Fun Podcast
• Single Purpose League Patreon Community

Books

• So Happy to Know You! by Annie F. Downs & Jennie Poh

Social Media

• Crystal Paine on Instagram
• Crystal Paine on Goodreads
• Money Saving Mom
• Money Saving Mom on Facebook
• Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
• [email protected]

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Armoire and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://www.armoire.style
* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL
* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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

I consider the mark of a good book one that makes you laugh and get teary-eyed in the space of a few pages. Cynthia Yanof's book, Life is Messy, God is Good: Sanity for the Chaos of Everyday Life, did that very thing for me. Her ability to bring humor into life's messiness is beautiful and one we can all learn from.

In this episode, we touch on some of her story and lessons she's gleaned. We talk about her experiences as an older mom with kids in college, high school, and first grade and how foster care profoundly impacted their family. I love her insights into stepping into scary places and learning to lean on God and trust Him -- even when it's really hard.

One of the parts of her book I really appreciated was her wisdom on friendships. I ask her to dive into this on the podcast as I often hear from women who are really struggling to make and keep friendships. We talk about what it looks like to invest in relationships, even when it feels like we don't have much time and how to really show up well for people in the midst of full schedules. 

If you are navigating the chaos of everyday life (and, let’s be honest, aren’t we all?), craving a good laugh, and looking for encouragement in the messiness, I think Cynthia's words and story will bless you! Listen in to hear about embracing and seeing beauty in life's messiness and standing confident in the unwavering goodness of God.

In This Episode

[0:35] - I am joined today by Cynthia Yanof, author of Life is Messy, God is Good!

[2:03] - Cynthia reflects on unexpected joys and God's guidance through fostering and how it has impacted their life.

[7:18] - "Just because it's hard, doesn't mean it's not right."

[13:15] - Cynthia shares some of her best advice for building strong and lasting relationships.

[17:27] - I loved hearing about her friend, Elaine, who impacted her life so much through her intentionality.

[20:17] - "If you think it, do it." Act on those ideas we have to express to people that we care about them.

[22:34] - I asked Cynthia to share about praying for her kids and what that has looked like over the years.

[26:57] - Walking through learning difficulties with your kids and resisting the urge to intervene excessively and learning to trust God instead.

Links & Resources

• Crystal Paine
• Pardon the Mess Ep. 2.33: Money Saving Mom with Crystal Paine

Books

• Life Is Messy, God Is Good: Sanity for the Chaos of Everyday Life by Cynthia Yanof

Social Media

• Crystal Paine on Instagram
• Crystal Paine on Twitter
• Crystal Paine on Goodreads
• Money Saving Mom
• Money Saving Mom on Facebook
• Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
• [email protected]

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Armoire and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://www.armoire.style
* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL
* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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

So much has happened over the last few weeks, so today we're sitting down to share a fun episode filled with lots of family updates and news. I share a crazy travel story, talk about my surprising sourdough journey, we give you some can't-miss cold shower updates (please laugh!), talk about a book I finished recently, and tell you about a book light we love!

We hope that this podcast episode feels like you are sitting in our living room with us chatting about life and things we're thinking about, trying, reading, and learning. We also touch on how our commitment to circadian rhythm and sunlight before screens is going and talk about how we are challenging ourselves outside our comfort zones for personal growth. 

Psst! We also offer you a coupon code on my new 10 Weeks of Money-Saving Menus!

In This Episode

​​[2:06] - Since so many of you have been intrigued by this cold shower thing, we talk more about it -- and even if you could care less about cold showers, I hope it makes you laugh!

[6:59] - Sunlight before screens: an update on how it's going for both of us and what our mornings look like.

[11:39] - Why it's important to challenge yourself outside your comfort zone.

[11:52] - My recent crazy travel story that involved snow, ice, and getting stranded overnight at the airport with Micah!

[28:47] - I just recently finished reading Expect Something Good: Finding God’s Good Gifts in Motherhood.

[29:53] - Hear about a new book light that we have loved using!

[31:09] - My new endeavor for 2024: learning to make sourdough from scratch!

[36:14] - I remind listeners of my 10 Weeks of Money-Saving Menus program and a special discount code that you can use!

Links & Resources

• Crystal Paine
• Book Light
• Acts of Sourdough - Instagram Page
• Acts of Sourdough - Website
• 10 Weeks of Money Saving Menus

Books

• Expect Something Beautiful: Finding God’s Good Gifts in Motherhood by Laura Booz

Social Media

• Crystal Paine on Instagram
• Crystal Paine on Twitter
• Crystal Paine on Goodreads
• Money Saving Mom
• Money Saving Mom on Facebook
• Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
• [email protected]

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Armoire and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://www.armoire.style
* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL
* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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

Today, I'm sitting down with my friend Heidi Lee Anderson, whom I initially met on Instagram, but our online friendship turned into a real-life bond. Join us as we dive into Heidi's inspiring journey and discuss her new book P.S. It's Gonna Be Good, which explores how God's Word addresses our deepest questions about faith, fear, and everything in between.

Heidi opens up about facing a cancer diagnosis over a decade ago and the emotional rollercoaster that followed. From chemotherapy to radiation, she shares the highs and lows, including the unexpected turns that left her in awe of God's miracles. We touch on the power of community and the role of faith in navigating through the darkest moments, and Heidi's authenticity shines through as she discusses meeting her husband, overcoming challenges, and ultimately embracing the unexpected beauty that God unfolds in our lives.

As we explore Heidi’s book, we delve into the questions many of us grapple with: what if the worst-case scenario happens? How do we trust God when He seems silent? What if our reality doesn't align with God's promises? Drawing insights from the lives of Bible heroes like Gideon, David, Joshua, and Martha, Heidi shares how their stories offer profound wisdom and hope for anyone facing uncertainty.

I hope that this episode offers you assurance that, no matter what, it's going to be good. 

In This Episode

[0:35] - Today’s guest is my friend Heidi Lee Anderson, author of P.S. It’s Gonna Be Good!

[2:09] - Heidi shares how her unexpected 10-pound, 11oz baby was a blessing, which evolved into a book.

[3:28] - A decade ago, Heidi confronted Hodgkin's lymphoma, testing faith and reality amid uncertainty and treatment.

[6:55] - In the darkest moments of a cancer diagnosis, Heidi grappled with fear, uncertainty, and despair.

[8:09] - Heidi finds comfort in God's living word, drawing parallels with Martha's story and Jesus' empathy.

[10:57] - In Martha's story, Jesus demonstrated sovereignty, raising Lazarus and revealing God's power in perfect timing.

[15:18] - Heidi shares that she found the hardest part to be dealing with others' hopelessness; encouragement was very important.

[18:17] - When did Heidi first meet her husband?

[20:58] - A seemingly small thing, like meeting Ty during a tough time, became a life-changing moment for Heidi.

[22:12] - Navigating day by day battles with fear and uncertainty, Heidi relies on community and God's word.

[24:20] - I emphasize the importance of questioning what is truth, combating self-made stories, and the impact of overthinking.

[25:47] - Heidi offers hope to those facing life's curveballs.

[27:57] - Heidi touches upon how her book explores life's questions through characters in the Bible, showing that despite challenges, God works for good.

Links & Resources

• Crystal Paine
• 10 Weeks of Money Saving Menus
• Heidi Lee Anderson on Instagram

Books

• P.S. It’s Gonna Be Good: How God’s Word Answers Our Questions about Faith, Fear, and All the Things by Heidi Lee Anderson

Social Media

• Crystal Paine on Instagram
• Crystal Paine on Goodreads
• Money Saving Mom on Facebook
• Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
• [email protected]

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Armoire and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://www.armoire.style
* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL
* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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

Every year since 2016, I've chosen a word for the year. For me, this has been pretty life-transforming as this word serves as sort of my over-arching theme for the goals and hopes for the year. And it also is one that I refer back to again and again throughout the year as I make decisions and think through what to commit to and what to say no to.

In this episode, Jesse and I explore why I chose the word I did for 2024 and how I am intentionally seeking to live it out with the choices I make daily and the big and small goals I set for the year.

We talk about how this word isn't just about physical choices, but how our physical choices can profoundly impact our mental and emotional state, as well. Jesse and I laugh about some of the weird things I'm trying as I live this word out -- including red light, morning sunlight and walks in the cold, limiting screen time, minimizing artificial lights, learning about circadian rhythms, and cold showers (something I never, ever thought I'd try despite Jesse extolling the virtues and benefits of them for the past few years!)

In addition to diving into goal-setting and practical steps we're taking to change our life in positive ways, we talk about the surprising need to child-proof our bath tub and toilet and devices we bought for this, plus a book I am reading. 

I also announce my brand-new product: 10 Weeks of Money-Saving Menus! We designed this to not only save you time and money, but also to hopefully help you feed your family some really delicious meals that are easy to make! You'll get 10 weeks of done-for-you dinner recipes, suggested sides, and grocery lists! (And use coupon code PODCAST to get them for just $9!) 

In This Episode

[0:35] - We are talking today about the word I chose for the year 2024.

[1:45] - What our trip to Kansas was like with only driving with half of the kids.

[4:09] - Our Airbnb adventure involved a chilly surprise with a heat outage and a broken faucet, but amazing hosts saved the day!

[11:30] - Etsy ended up being a lifesaver helping us find a childproof resource for our Roman tub.

[13:30] - I just finished my first read of 2024: Lovin' with Grit & Grace, a book about love and resilience in a blended family.

[15:52] - I am so excited to launch a new product, 10 Weeks of Money-Saving Menus, offering affordable, family-favorite recipes with a special podcast listener discount.

[18:37] - We talk about the word of the year: health!

[20:39] - As a society, we tend to ignore the natural circadian rhythm and rely too heavily on artificial lighting.

[23:31] - Hear about how I have adopted a holistic approach, prioritizing morning sunlight, limiting screen time, and embracing nature for emotional and spiritual well-being.

[25:34] - Our experiences with trying cold showers and everything you maybe never knew you needed to know about cold showers!

[32:03] - The benefit of going outside of your comfort zone.

Links & Resources

• Crystal Paine
• 10 Weeks of Money-Saving Menus

Books

• Lovin’ with Grit & Grace: Straight-Talk about Romance, Sex, Fun, and the Tough Stuff Too by Jessica Ronne

Social Media

• Crystal Paine on Instagram
• Crystal Paine on Goodreads
• Money Saving Mom
• Money Saving Mom on Facebook
• Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
• [email protected]

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Armoire and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://www.armoire.style
* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL
* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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

It's 2024 and we're kicking off this year with a podcast episode sharing about five significant changes we're making in our lives/schedules to be more intentional and purposeful.

Because Kierstyn is starting preschool, we are tweaking our daily routine in three significant ways: getting up and out the door by 7:25 a.m., getting our younger three to bed by 7:30 p.m., and me turning off my screens at 8:30 p.m. This isn't just about change for the sake of change, it's about aligning our lives more closely with our priorities, and we hope these adjustments will help us do just that.

We also discuss other tweaks that we will be making in 2024, such as changes to my blog and our commitment to ABC date nights! Creativity will reign supreme as we aim for 26 creatively-themed date nights throughout the year.

Are you planning any changes for 2024? I'd love to hear!

In This Episode

[0:38] - In 2024, Jesse and I are making five purposeful changes, including setting specific departure times for accountability.

[3:00] - How we are planning to adjust our morning routine.

[5:36] - We are embracing a new challenge, aiming to have all kids ready by 7:25 a.m.

[6:46] - I share how we aim to establish consistent bedtime routines and prioritize health.

[9:51] - I acknowledge the fact that Jesse and I have differing personality types, but we aim for a balanced routine with flexibility.

[12:44] - I emphasize the importance of setting realistic routines, considering possible interruptions, and planning for success.

[15:33] - Hear as I identify a self-discipline issue with screens, which is why I'm implementing changes like turning off screens early for better sleep.

[18:56] - I sum up three key changes for 2024: early morning routine, kids' bedtime, and screen shutdown.

[20:49] - Learn a bit about changes I plan to make to my blog.

[23:09] - I am shifting sharing my personal content to Instagram, podcasting, and a weekly email newsletter for better efficiency and impact.

[28:54] - Our ABC date night idea.

[30:37] - I sum up the five changes we are making in 2024: early mornings, kids' bedtime, screen limits, content focus on MoneySavingMom.com, and ABC date nights.

Links & Resources

• Crystal Paine
• My 22 Goals for 2024
• Free Printable: 60 Meal Instead of Getting Takeout

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Armoire and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://www.armoire.style
* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL
* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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

Welcome to the final episode of The Crystal Paine Show for 2023! I am so thrilled to bring back a familiar voice – my daughter Kathrynne! In this episode, we reflect on Kathrynne's first semester of college, exploring the highs, lows, and the valuable lessons learned. From the challenges of living independently to the joys of making new friends, Kathrynne shares her perspective on the transition from high school to college life.

We take a dive into her initial uncertainty about the chosen college, the surprising ease of making acquaintances, and the deeper bonds forged over time. Kathrynne offers practical advice for upcoming college students, emphasizing the importance of intentional connections, reaching out to others, and starting good habits early on.

She candidly shares her experience with procrastination on a major History project, highlighting the crucial lesson she learned in managing time effectively. We also touch on the impact of faith in college, the challenges of maintaining relationships while in different schools, and the overall growth and self-discovery that come with this transformative journey.

I'm so grateful Kathrynne was willing to join me again to share on the podcast and I hope that this episode encourages you -- no matter where you are in life, that God is faithful to provide, that community is worth investing in, and sometimes what you think is just a small stepping stone turns out to be the path you're supposed to be on for longer than just a short season.

In This Episode

[0:35] - It's the last episode of 2023 and I'm bringing back a very popular guest: my daughter, Kathrynne!

[2:16] - How does Kathrynne feel now that her first semester is over?

​​[3:10] - Kathrynne reveals how she embraced the challenges of transitioning from high school to college, building new friendships and connections.

[6:34] - How a painting night and saying yes turned into lasting relationships.

[9:32] - Transitioning to independence in college brought newfound responsibilities, from grocery shopping to managing schedules and expenses.

[12:22] - Hear about what influenced Kathrynne's decision to stay at MTSU rather than transfer.

[15:19] - Lessons learned on long-distance relationships.

[18:48] - A 10-page family history essay that Kathrynne recently finished and how she discovered she doesn't like procrastination!

[22:41] - Parting words to juniors and seniors preparing for and thinking of college soon.

Links & Resources

• 10 Days to Be a Happier Mom
• Crystal Paine
• 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 and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://www.armoire.style
* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL
* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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