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    Education

    Crystal Paine Show

    The Crystal Paine Show is dedicated to helping you embrace life right where you are and take practical steps to get where you want to go. Crystal says, "My hope is that this podcast will serve as an inspiration to your week, a pause in your day to slow down and reflect a little, a looked-forward-to part of your weekly routine, a place where we can connect on a deeper level… and ultimately, my desire is that you come away from listening to each episode feeling motivated to bloom where you are planted and take intentional steps to move in the direction you are longing to go." Crystal is a wife, mom of 6, foster/adoptive mom, speaker, New York Times bestselling author, and online entrepreneur, best known for founding MoneySavingMom.com.

    Advertise

    Copyright: © CrystalPaine.com

    • Apple Podcasts
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    • Spotify

    Latest Episodes:
    254. Kaitlynn's trip to Singapore and Indonesia Apr 02, 2024
    Show notes

    This week's podcast guest is Kaitlynn (my 16-year-old!) who is here to discuss the details of her unforgettable trip to Singapore and Indonesia! Join us as Kaitlynn shares exclusive insights into her trip, talks about why she chose to go on this trip, and all the highlights (and a few lowlights) of the experience.

    The trip started out rocky with a delayed flight that caused their group to miss their a 17.5-hour flight to Singapore and end up stranded in San Francisco at 2 am in the morning! Kaitlynn recounts some of the things she felt and learned and some unexpected fun in the midst -- including impromptu volleyball games in airport terminals! She also shares how the unexpected adventures brought more camaraderie.

    In Indonesia, they spent time in a remote fishing village helping build a retaining wall, in addition to a Survivor Challenge and a hike in the jungle. In Singapore, they got to enjoy the bustling city life and vibrant culture while exploring the city. Some of her favorites from her time there were the rooftop restaurant and iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and the electronic Supertrees.

    We close out the episode with Kaitlynn reflecting on the lessons learned and the lasting friendships forged.

    In This Episode

    [0:35] - Kaitlynn joins us talk about her trips to Indonesia and Singapore!

    [2:49] - Tight layovers, flight delays, and being unexpectedly stuck in San Fransisco.

    [8:48] - Indonesia and Singapore were stark contracts to each other.

    [10:26] - What their accommodations were like, helping at the village, and the intense heat and humidity.

    [18:25] - An exciting jungle hike, including a waterfall, an ankle sprain, monkeys, and heat exhaustion.

    [20:52] - Singapore was a whole different, modern world.

    [26:56] - Chinatown and Starbucks where she had an excellent chai.

    [29:42] - Kaitlynn reflects on the trip and highlights stark financial contrasts between Singapore and remote villages

    [33:27] - Despite challenges, Kaitlynn embraced Philippians' message: refrain from complaining and foster faith and gratitude.

    [35:55] - I am excited to announce 10 Weeks to a More Organized Home, a step-by-step guide to help you clear out the clutter and get more organization in your home and lives! Use the code PODCAST for a special deal!

    Links & Resources

    • Crystal Paine
    • 10 Weeks to a More Organized Home

    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
    • crystal@moneysavingmom.com

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

    253. How to Build Belonging in a World of Loneliness (with Chris and Julie Bennett) Mar 26, 2024
    Show notes

    There were tears and there was laughter on this episode of the podcast, because we talked about the vulnerable (and sometimes difficult!) topic of belonging. And my guests were Chris and Julie Bennett, the authors of Fighting for Family: The Relentless Pursuit of Building Belonging.

    As the title of their book would suggest, Chris and Julie are passionate about relationships and community. In the conversation, they share about how family isn't just the people who you are related to, it can also be people who become like family because of your deep friendship.

    The Bennetts share their story of a very crazy and chaotic season in their lives -- uprooting their lives to move to Los Angeles without a clear plan, not being able to find housing, moving again and again, while facing the completely unexpected diagnosis of stage three breast cancer for Julie.

    They share how hard it was, but also how good it was. How God used this space where they felt like they had nothing to offer and were so needy to teach them powerful lessons about belonging.

    In this episode, they share some of what they have learned and provide encouragement for anyone who is feeling lonely or like they are an outsider.

    If you're craving deeper connections, longing for a sense of belonging, or simply seeking inspiration to navigate life's challenges with grace and resilience, this episode is for you. I think you will be so blessed by this heartfelt conversation!

    In This Episode

    [0:35] - I am interviewing Chris and Julie Bennett, authors of the book Fighting for Family.

    [1:50] - Chris reveals how the book came to be.

    [3:21] - Julie points out how life's challenges turned her adventurous family into brave survivors, battling homelessness and cancer together.

    [5:49] - Their faith was deepened amidst chaos, reshaping their understanding of belonging.

    [8:49] - How did Julie and Chris navigate the immense risk and uncertainty, especially with children involved?

    [15:43] - Julie, despite hesitations, joined a diverse group of fourteen women and these women ended up serving as a lifeline for her.

    [19:35] - Belonging involves both giving and taking risks.

    [24:05] - Fostering genuine connections requires vulnerability without hidden agendas, creating space for authentic sharing.

    [27:00] - Chris reasons that Jesus exemplified love and belonging, prioritizing the marginalized and modeling inclusiveness.

    [29:39] - It's okay to feel lonely, even with loved ones. Keep fighting; there's hope ahead.

    [31:51] - And stay tuned at the end for an exciting announcement of a project I've been working on for a number of months that I'm finally launching this week! I announce that I am launching "10 Weeks to a More Organized Home," with daily tasks for decluttering.

    Links & Resources

    • Crystal Paine
    • 10 Weeks to a More Organized Home
    • Chris and Julie's podcast

    Books

    • Fighting for Family: The Relentless Pursuit of Building Belonging by Chris & Julie Bennett
    • Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community by Robert D. Putnam

    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
    • crystal@moneysavingmom.com

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

    252. Silas and Jesse share about their trip to DC Mar 19, 2024
    Show notes

    Silas makes his formal debut on the podcast this week by joining Jesse and me to share about their trip to DC. He's joined in on a few podcasts in the past when he was much younger and didn't say much, so I'm excited for you to get to hear more from him now that he's older and less scared of the microphone. :)

    Jesse and Silas recount the adventures they had on the 8th grade school trip, including flying Southwest (and winning some vouchers), Arlington, the Holocaust Museum, the 9/11 Memorial at the Pentagon, Museum of the Bible, the Capitol, Mount Vernon, Gettysburg, the White House Visitor's Center, and more!

    You'll enjoy hearing both of their perspectives on it, what they learned, what was disappointing and surprising, and places they want to return to. They shared some stories and insights I hadn't yet heard from their trip, so it was really fun for me to sit back and listen -- I hope you enjoy it as much we did recording it!

    In This Episode

    [0:35] - Silas and Jesse are here to recount their recent trip to Washington D.C.!

    [2:19] - Jesse admits that this trip was better than Kathrynne's eighth-grade trip because they flew this time.

    [3:18] - Silas won two $50 gift vouchers on the trip!

    [4:49] - Jesse highlights getting to know the teens in Silas's class better and visiting Arlington.

    [5:59] - Silas reflects on gaining insights from classmates and highlighted visiting the Museum of the Bible and the Holocaust Museum.

    [6:58] - Jesse found it unexpected and intriguing to meet someone who was in the Pentagon during the attack.

    [7:43] - Hear Silas go into more detail about the visit to the Holocaust museum and Museum of the Bible, finding the transition from heavy to light.

    [11:35] - I mention the personalized experience at the Holocaust Museum and compare it to a memorial in Israel.

    [13:20] - Visiting the Capitol and the White House Visitor's Center.


    [16:42] - Was there anything that was disappointing or surprising about the trip?


    [20:11] - Silas wants to go back to D.C. but with the whole family.

    [21:26] - Jesse found their visit to Mount Vernon intriguing, describing it as a living history experience.


    [25:13] - I share some exciting news: I am launching the Simplified Home Checklist, offering daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly tasks for organizing!

    Links & Resources

    • FREE Simplified Home Checklists
    • Crystal Paine

    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
    • crystal@moneysavingmom.com

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

    251. Removing Toxins from Your Life Without Adding Them to Your Personality (with Emily Morrow) Mar 12, 2024
    Show notes

    I’m guessing many of you have seen the funny crunchy video comedy clips from Really Very Crunchy on Instagram or TikTok or YouTube. Emily and Jason Morrow are the talented writers, producers, and actors for these and I got the privilege of interviewing Emily in-studio recently about her brand-new book, Really Very Crunchy: A Beginner’s Guide to Removing Toxins from Your Life Without Adding Them to Your Personality.

    As my word for the year is health, I’ve especially loved Emily’s videos and her book. She makes me laugh, she makes me think, she teaches me a lot of things I never knew about (and then need to go Google for more information!), and she does it all in a very gracious and kind way.

    In this episode of the podcast, Emily shares some really humorous stories (including why she got a pedicure and then took off the polish before coming to my house for the interview!) as well as very practical advice on how to live a more health-conscious lifestyle without breaking the bank. We talk about a lot of practices you can implement that are free and easy + she shares her best tips for eating healthy on a budget (they were so good and inspiring!).

    Emily’s refreshing approach to the crunchy lifestyle, filled with self-deprecating humor, makes it accessible to everyone, regardless of their current choices. (She reminds us often that “crunchy is a spectrum” and it’s not worth losing relationships over crazy crunchy rules you’ve concocted.

    We also touch on the challenges of balancing a crunchy lifestyle with real-world situations and she shared a recent situation she navigated at a family dinner. Emily encourages a mindful and compassionate approach, reminding us that we can have strong convictions without belittling, condemning, or ostracizing others.

    The conversation also extends beyond dietary choices, as we also talk about the interconnectedness of mental and physical health. Emily’s perspective on stress and the importance of a balanced approach to health is so important for all of us to hear and remember.

    In This Episode

    [0:35] – My guest today is Emily Morrow, author of Really Very Crunchy.

    [3:16] – Emily shares a bit of her journey and how they started posting videos without telling family or friends — and how crazy it was for these videos to end up going viral like they did.

    [7:49] – Crunchy encompasses various lifestyles, from barefoot moms to outdoor enthusiasts, forming a diverse spectrum.

    [9:52] – Emily encourages making healthier choices without significant sacrifices, emphasizing practical steps like avoiding single-use items.

    [12:46] – Exposure to artificial light, especially from phones with blue light, disrupts sleep-inducing hormones.

    [15:23] – Starting the day by avoiding potentially negative or distressing content on your phone helps center and set a positive tone.

    [17:19] – How to have simplicity and sustainability in grocery shopping, minimizing plastic use.

    [25:02] – Acknowledging her mom’s kindness in hosting, Emily chooses not to critique her cooking choices.

    [30:04] – Stress, a top killer, shows us the importance of balance; even health pursuits shouldn’t compromise mental well-being.

    [31:36] – Facing financial strain, Emily embraced a crunchy lifestyle, prioritizing simple, whole foods for a healthier living.

    [33:26] – Choosing organic doesn’t have to be as expensive as many people make it; making your own food from simple ingredients offers affordability and health.

    Links & Resources

    • Crystal Paine

    Books

    • Really Very Crunchy: A Beginner’s Guide to Removing Toxins from Your Life Without Adding Them to Your Personality by Emily Morrow
    • Really Very Crunchy on Instagram
    • Really Very Crunchy on YouTube
    • Really Very Crunchy on TikTok

    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
    • crystal@moneysavingmom.com

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

    250. What it was like living in the 1900's :) Mar 05, 2024
    Show notes

    Today's episode is a fun departure from our recent more serious topics. Join me and Jesse as we take a lighthearted stroll down memory lane, exploring the quirks and charms of growing up in the 1900's. Okay, so we were born in 1980 and 1981 to be exact, but it was still the 1900's and so much has changed since then!

    Born before the millennium? Get ready for a nostalgia-packed ride! The inspiration for today's episode comes from a meme about being from the 1900's that sparked a flood of childhood memories in our Instagram community. Join us as we reminisce about record players, cassette tapes, and the evolution of technology. From bag phones to the original Netflix to the joys of free AOL discs, we've got it all covered. If you remember playing Oregon Trail or had a station wagon with a seat that faced backwards or had a house with wood paneling, hopefully this episode will remind you of the "good 'ole days"! :)

    Also, remember that we have launched a new product - 10 Weeks of Money-Saving Menus. If menu-planning feels tedious and time-consuming, we've got your back! This resource has 60 budget-friendly recipes, complete with ready-made grocery lists! Plus, try a free one-week sample menu and don't forget to use the code PODCAST to get the entire 10-week plan for just $9!!!

    In This Episode

    [0:35] - Today's episode takes a lighthearted look at the nostalgia of being born in the 1900's.

    [2:31] - After being pregnant and/or nursing for four and a half years, it's so weird to not be either! And I kind of forgot how to eat for just one person! :)

    [5:23] - Jesse highlights Kaitlynn's unexpected layover in San Francisco due to flight delays.

    [7:25] - I discuss upcoming trips, including Kaitlynn's 11-day adventure and Jesse's chaperoning role for Silas's DC trip.

    [10:39] - I am currently reading Susan Meissner's Only the Beautiful which explores societal stigmas and hidden historical realities.

    [14:04] - Exciting news! Our new product, 10 Weeks of Money-Saving Menus, simplifies dinner planning! And I've got a coupon code for you!

    [16:07] - Today's episode is sparked by a meme and dives into nostalgia, childhood memories, and technological evolution.

    [18:26] - I reminisce about things like our basement record player, Walkman gardening, and more.

    [20:31] - In a recent conversation with Silas, I realized I don't know my kids' phone numbers.

    [23:10] - Jesse recalls law practices naming their offices something that would get more attention in the phonebook.

    [24:38] - I get schooled on bag phones and we talk about our first phones.

    [29:37] - Have we changed the way we parent and interact with people because of cell phones?

    [32:31] - Metal slides and Merry-Go-Rounds!

    [35:51] - We reminisce about free internet courtesy of AOL discs.

    [38:00] - Cassette players, CD players, iPods, and planning our wedding on a PalmPilot.

    Links & Resources

    • Crystal Paine
    • Sample one-week menu plan of 10 Weeks of Money-Saving Menus

    Books

    • Only the Beautiful by Susan Meissner

    Social Media

    • Crystal Paine on Instagram
    • Crystal Paine on X
    • Crystal Paine on Goodreads
    • Money Saving Mom
    • Money Saving Mom on Facebook
    • Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
    • crystal@moneysavingmom.com



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

    249. The Gift of Limitations (with Sara Hagerty) Feb 27, 2024
    Show notes

    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
    • crystal@moneysavingmom.com

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

    248. Losing and Rebuilding Trust With Your Teens Feb 20, 2024
    Show notes

    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
    • crystal@moneysavingmom.com

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

    247. An Update on Our 2024 Goals (+ an app we're both loving!) Feb 13, 2024
    Show notes

    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
    • crystal@moneysavingmom.com

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

    246. The Best Way to Encourage Your Single Friends (with Annie F. Downs) Feb 06, 2024
    Show notes

    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
    • crystal@moneysavingmom.com

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

    245. Life is Messy, But God is Still Good (with Cynthia Yanof) Jan 30, 2024
    Show notes

    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
    • crystal@moneysavingmom.com

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

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