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My VBAC Birth Story
From the time I realized that I might be pregnant, my very first thoughts were of what type of birth I’d have. Might sound silly to some – first time moms or those with “textbook” pregnancies/births – but for me it was a huge part of my daily thoughts. Would this birth be another chance to have a truly natural, vaginal birth? What could I do to ensure this was so? Could I go back to the birth center who pretty coldly dropped me as soon as our third son was confirmed breech? Could we afford a home birth midwife? A doula? Would that even be “safe” considering my history? …
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Advocating for the Birth you Want and Deserve
Advocating for the Birth You Want and Deserve There is much to be said about having a voice. Regardless of what subject we’re talking about, having a say in the matter (when it concerns you and/or those you love) is paramount for many reasons. Feeling out of control, muffled or silenced leads to unnecessary anxiety, stress, worry and other complications that can only compound and make matters worse. Regarding pregnancy and birth, one of the most sacred topics that exists, we must have the boldness and confidence to advocate for ourselves, our baby(s) and others who may not have that level of courage yet. Over the years, pregnancy, birth and…
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Ways to Make Money as a Stay at Home Mom
There are so many ways to make money nowadays that it can seem overwhelming. 10-15 years ago, there were not nearly as many options to choose from, and you really had to know where to look. Thankfully, for you, I’ve taken a lot of the guesswork out of it and compiled a list of some of the best ways to earn an income from home. As you know, if you’ve been around here for some time, after our second child was born I had a burning desire (that has not left me since) to stay home with my kids. I fully intended on re-entering the workforce while pregnant, but once…
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How to Deal with Difficult People
We can never be perfect like Jesus, but think about this for inspiration: on the most difficult day of His life as a man (remember, He was both fully man and fully God), Jesus chose to – while suffering greatly and being able to stop it all if He chose – forgive His assailants and accusers. In our eyes, He had every right to at least be angry, but no – He chose forgiveness and compassion. “They know not what they do”. We might not always choose to immediately forgive, or to say kind things directly in the face of adversity (far less than what Jesus experienced, too), and –…
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How to Feel Excited for the Holidays
To some, the mere thought of actually hating Christmas, Thanksgiving or birthdays is abhorrent. Why would you? How could you? Nobody does – right? Well……. I haven’t been around the too long, but I have met some real life Scrooges in my time, and while misunderstood by many, people have their reasons. A lot of times, it’s as simple as this: Holidays bring up old feelings. Perhaps a loved one has passed and their memories still linger, causing the pain of nostalgia for what was. Perhaps there is bitterness from a pass hurt and a time that would typically be full of joy and fellowship feels empty and hollow. The…
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How to Stop Complaining all the Time
I wanted to share a tip that I use to combat grumbling. Grumbling is something I’m sure we all struggle with, whether we want to admit it or not. But, how can we help our fellow sister’s in Christ – or ANYONE for that matter – if we don’t share our struggles and how we use our weaknesses to glorify God. in 2 Cor 12:9-10 Paul is boasting about his weakness, and he says this is so that the power of Christ may dwell in him. So. . . let’s boast away, cause who doesn’t need more of *THAT pwer, amirite??? Ok, so.. here’s my tip (but first my confession,…
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Yes, my Living Room is a Playground; and no, I won’t apologize for it
Yes, my living room is a playground, and No, I won’t apologize for it. As I was cleaning up yesterday’s toys off of the living room floor, early this morning – because I had a few minutes between loads of laundry, an hour or two before the baby wakes up and a little extra energy (Thanks, Red), I thought back to an image I once saw, it was a cartoon image of mother and a young child, both viewing the same exact room, but both with a completely difference perspective. The mother saw chaos, disorganization, mess, disaster and most certainly embarrassment should anyone come knocking on the door unexpectedly. The…
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50 Creative and Unique Date Ideas | Valentine’s Day
In today’s chaotic world, it can be hard to find time to Date Your Spouse, but it’s oh so very important. With children, activities, church, work and your general everyday hustle and bustle, who has the time or energy to go on a date? Let alone the money! All of the ideas below are either free or cheap so what excuse do you have not to date your spouse? Well, my friend, throw your excuses out the window, because below are 50 Creative and Unique Date Ideas that will keep things fresh, jazzy and your love-life snazzy! Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to utilize this list of 50 Creative…
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How to Survive on One Income?
The economy isn’t what it used to be, friends. 20 some years ago it was completely acceptable and attainable for families to get by in a one income household. Nowadays, we see moms dropping off their newborns to daycare, relatives homes, leaving them with dad who just got off third shift work himself, and hustling off to a 9-5 (or more) job. I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with moms working, heck – I say more power to ya if you can juggle it all! – but… lots of moms don’t have a choice. There are some families who want mom to stay at home and raise the kids, but…
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How to Find Time to do Anything
So, you want to write (or do something else) but you just can’t find the time, eh? The dishes are piling up, your phone keeps ringing and the kids want to go watch bunnies hop through the field outside, right? Hey, I know. Been there. Done that. Still there. Listen, that stuff, while important, isn’t going to magically go away some day and let you do what you want. You have to make it happen. Here are some tips below on how you can find time to write (or do anything). WORK SMARTER NOT HARDER. Man, I wish I’d coined that phrase. It rhymes, it’s true and it just has…