What happens when winter storms outside mirror the emotional storms happening inside your home?

In this Whinypaluza Wednesday episode, Rebecca Greene opens up about the physical dangers and emotional weight that winter brings, especially for families with kids away at college. With constant storm warnings, difficult drives, and the heartbreak of readjusting after a child returns to school, Rebecca and Seth talk candidly about anxiety, preparedness, flexibility, and resilience.

The episode opens with a special Teenage Tuesday appearance from Rebecca’s daughter Ella, who shares four thoughtful lessons winter teaches us about rest, patience, readiness, and adaptation. Her perspective sets the tone for a powerful conversation about letting go, trusting the process, and learning to handle hard things one season at a time.

From whiteout driving conditions to empty seats at the dinner table, this episode reminds listeners that storms do pass and families do adjust even when it feels overwhelming.

Key Takeaways

• Winter is nature’s reminder that rest is not optional

• Anticipatory anxiety is often harder than the moment itself

• Preparation reduces fear when facing physical storms

• Emotional adjustment takes time and that is normal

• We model resilience for our children by handling hard things openly

Featured Segment

Teenage Tuesday with Ella

Lessons from Winter

Call to Action

Subscribe, rate, and share Whinypaluza with a parent who needs reassurance this winter.

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Quotable Moments

From Ella

“Even the earth needs a break. Winter is nature’s time to rest, and that’s not weakness. It’s sustainability.”

From Rebecca

“One of the best lessons we can teach our kids is that we can handle hard things even when we don’t like them.”