In this episode of "Rhythms That Restore," host Cherisse welcomes her long-time friend and mentor, Kate DeBlander. They delve into Kate's transformative journey from a College Jewish hippie living in Bolder, Colorado in the 1970s to her current Faith in Jesus and family life.

Kate shares her experiences with prayer to draw her near to Him, emphasizing the ACTS model and the power of journaling to remember Gods hand of faithfulness. They discuss the impact of travel on faith, recounting visits to significant biblical sites and how it makes the world and Gods word come to life.

The conversation also touches on family traditions, including Hanukkah and Christmas celebrations. Cherisse expresses deep gratitude for Kate's mentorship over the last 26 years, highlighting the importance of intentional living and community in personal growth.

Connect with Kate DeBlander @ [email protected] 

Kate's Favorite Resources: New Morning Mercies by Paul David Tripp, Pastor Gary Hamrick of Cornerstone Chapel through their app Cornerstone. The Day Christ Died, Jews for Jesus, Voice of the Maytrs. Find a local BSF - Bible Study Fellowship group to plug into in your community. 

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**Introduction to the Episode (00:00:02)**   Cherisse welcomes listeners and sets the tone for the podcast's theme of restoration.

**Guest Introduction (00:00:27)**   Cherisse introduces Kate, her mentor, and friend, highlighting her influence in various life aspects.

**Kate’s Background (00:01:34)**   Cherisse shares details about Kate’s family, marriage, and her passion for cooking and fitness.

**Kate’s Career (00:02:32)**   Kate's retirement from a long career with Mary Kay is discussed, emphasizing her mentorship to women.

**Cherisse's Memories (00:03:32)**   Cherisse recalls fond memories of staying with Kate and Dave, showcasing their hospitality.

**Lessons from Kate (00:05:41)**   Cherisse reflects on the life lessons Kate taught her about dreaming and decision-making.

**Funny Anecdote (00:07:38)**   Cherisse shares a humorous story about a paper bathing suit Kate provided during a visit.

**Gratitude for Hospitality (00:09:14)**   Cherisse expresses gratitude for Kate's nurturing home environment and the impact it had on her.

**Praise for Cherisse's Podcast (00:09:43)**   Kate compliments Cherisse on her podcast, acknowledging her initiative and creativity.

**Kate’s Life Story Introduction (00:10:08)**   Cherisse invites Kate to share her unique life story, beginning with her experiences in the 1970s.

**Kate's Early Life (00:10:56)**   Kate discusses her upbringing in a Jewish home and the cultural differences with Christianity.

**College Experience (00:12:18)**   Kate describes her college years in Boulder, Colorado, during the hippie movement.

**Hippie Lifestyle (00:13:25)**   Kate reflects on her embrace of the hippie lifestyle and its cultural significance during her youth.

**Transition to Madison (00:17:41)**   Kate recounts moving to Madison, Wisconsin, with a commune and her experiences there. 

**Marriage to Dave (00:19:35)**   Kate shares the story of her unconventional marriage to Dave, officiated by an astrologer.

**Cherisse's Introduction (00:20:02)**   Cherisse discusses her admiration for Kate's life story and its impact on her.

**Kate's Journey to Motherhood (00:20:22)**   Kate shares her experiences with motherhood and the challenges she faced after having her daughter.

**First Encounters with God (00:21:06)**   Kate reflects on her initial thoughts about God during her youth and early adulthood.

**The Influence of a Hippie (00:21:54)**   Kate describes how a conversation with a hippie led her to explore faith in Jesus.

**Reading About Jesus (00:22:42)**   Kate recounts her first impressions of Jesus while reading the New Testament.

**Unique Stories of Faith (00:23:41)**   Kate emphasizes that everyone has a unique journey to faith shaped by personal experiences.

**Finding a Book on Jesus (00:24:46)**   Kate tells the story of discovering a book about Jesus that deepened her interest in faith.

**Witnessing to Kate (00:25:37)**   Neighbors introduce Kate to the idea of Jesus being the only way to God.

**Transformation Through Belief (00:26:40)**   Kate describes her immediate transformation after accepting Jesus into her heart.

**Prayers for Dave (00:28:08)**   Kate shares how she and her family prayed for her husband Dave's faith journey.

**God's Gentle Pursuit (00:29:32)**   Cherisse reflects on God's patience and gentle reminders in Kate's faith journey.

**Years of Prayer for Dave (00:30:07)**   Kate discusses the six years she prayed for Dave before he committed to faith.

**Challenges in Marriage (00:31:10)**   Kate and Cherisse talk about the challenges they faced in their marriages.

**Moving to Florida (00:32:42)**   Kate recounts her family's move to Florida and the blessings that followed.

**God's Work in Change (00:33:31)**   Cherisse highlights how God works through life changes and transitions.

**Strongholds in Life (00:34:10)**   Kate discusses the concept of strongholds and the importance of letting go.

**Reflection on Holding On (00:35:55)**   Cherisse and Kate reflect on the reasons we hold onto things in our lives.

**The ACTS Prayer Method (00:37:04)**   Kate explains the ACTS acronym for prayer: Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication.

**Prayer and Silence (00:39:19)**   Discussion on the importance of silence in prayer and seeking guidance from the Lord.

**Group Prayer Practices (00:40:15)**   Sharing experiences from a prayer group and the concept of "popcorn prayer."

**Active Listening in Prayer (00:41:56)**   Emphasizing the need for active listening during prayer to foster a personal relationship with Jesus.

**Travel Experiences and Faith (00:44:31)**   Kate shares how travel has influenced her faith journey, including visits to significant biblical sites.

**Travel and Personal Growth (00:45:35)**   Kate discusses the impact of travel on her perspective and the importance of exploring new places.

**Family Holiday Traditions (00:51:00)**   Kate reflects on family traditions during the holiday season, including Jewish influences and Christmas celebrations.

**Baptism of Kate's Grandchildren (00:54:03)**   Exciting news about the baptism of Kate's grandchildren and the conversations it has sparked within the family.

**Closing Thoughts on Following the Lord (00:56:45)**   Encouragement to be intentional in seeking God's will and the importance of loving others.

**Closing Remarks (00:58:21)**   Cherisse thanks listeners for joining and emphasizes the journey of restoration and renewal.

**Staying Connected (00:58:28)**   Listeners are encouraged to follow Cherisse on Instagram for updates between episodes.

**Subscribe and Review (00:58:35)**   Cherisse reminds the audience to subscribe and leave reviews to support the podcast.

**Final Thoughts (00:58:51)**   Cherisse shares a message of peace, encouraging listeners to be themselves and feel enough.

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