giving yourself grace as a parent
Family Life

Feeling Overwhelmed? How to Give Yourself Grace When Life Gets Tough

by Denise Wright

Life Happens—And Sometimes, So Does the Flu

This past week has been a complete whirlwind. I had plans—big plans. A new podcast episode to record, a newsletter to send, blog posts to write, announcements to make. But instead? I got sick. And just as I started feeling human again, my daughter got sick too. The flu hit our house hard, and everything I had scheduled came to a screeching halt.

Saturday came, and with the kids away all day, recording the podcast wasn’t an option. Then Sunday hit, and the moment we got home from church, it felt like one thing after another kept piling up—like a snowball rolling downhill, getting bigger with every turn.

By Monday morning, I turned to Matt and admitted, “I just don’t have it in me. I have to put everything on pause this week.” And sure enough, I started feeling even worse.

Tuesday rolled around, and there was no improvement. That’s when Matt jumped into action, throwing every vitamin and remedy he could think of at me, determined to help me bounce back.

Then came Wednesday morning. Addison walked into our bedroom, her face pale, and said, “I don’t feel good.” Oops. I had officially passed it on.

Since then, she’s been sleeping almost nonstop, and honestly, she’s had it worse than I did. Bless her heart, our girl is down for the count.

I don’t know about you, but when things don’t go as planned, I tend to spiral into frustration. I feel like I’m falling behind, like I’m failing at everything, and like I should be pushing through no matter what. But if this week has taught me anything, it’s this:

Rest Is Not a Failure

As parents, we constantly pour into our families—our time, our energy, our attention. And when we can’t show up the way we want to, we tend to feel guilty. But the truth is, our bodies are not machines. They need rest. They need care. And when we push through sickness or exhaustion just to check off a to-do list, we’re not helping anyone.

If I had forced myself to push through this week, I would have ended up even sicker, even more exhausted, and let’s be honest—probably even more cranky. That wouldn’t have served my family, and it certainly wouldn’t have served me.

The Guilt of Falling Behind

I’ll admit it—there’s a part of me that keeps whispering, You should have done more. The podcast went unrecorded, the newsletter never got sent, and half of my plans fell by the wayside.

But you know what? That’s okay.

Life isn’t a race to perfection. It’s messy. It’s unpredictable. And sometimes, it means we have to press pause whether we want to or not.

The Lesson I’m Taking Away

This past week forced me to slow down and reminded me that my worth isn’t measured by my productivity. I’ve also watched Matt—who has been a force to be reckoned with these past few months—struggle to balance his work while constantly tending to Addison and me.

At one point, when I finally started to feel a little normal again, I looked at him and said, “It doesn’t matter how much money you bring in or don’t bring in today, honey. What matters is that you took care of your family. Some days, that means providing for our financial needs. On other days, it’s taking care of our physical needs. No matter what… you’ve been amazing. I see you. And I appreciate you more than you know.”

This week reminded me that resting isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a necessity. And that giving myself grace isn’t just something I encourage others to do—it’s something I have to actively practice myself.

So if you’ve had a week (or a month) where things didn’t go as planned, I want to remind you: You are not behind. You are not failing. You are human. And sometimes, the best thing you can do is take a breath, reset, and give yourself the grace to move forward at your own pace.

Let’s Talk About It

Have you ever had a time when life forced you to slow down? How did you handle it? Send us your thoughts to [email protected]

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A family of four in their home after a quarrel, highlighting the need for alone time for parents to recharge and reconnect.
Family Life

Alone Time for Parents: Why Is it Important?

by Denise Wright

Introduction: Why Alone Time Matters for Parents

Parenting is a full-time job that doesn’t come with breaks, and as much as we love our kids, the constant demands can be exhausting. That’s why alone time for parents isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.

This week, Matt and I are making it a priority to carve out some much-needed time together with a date night while the kids stay the night with family. After a particularly rough week, we realized just how overstimulated and overdue we are for some quiet, intentional time to recharge and reconnect—not just for ourselves, but for the well-being of our family as a whole.

In this post, I’ll share why alone time is so crucial for parents, how it benefits your marriage and your kids, and practical tips to make it happen, even with a busy schedule.

Recognizing the Signs of Burnout and Overstimulation

Last week was tough. Both Matt and I could feel the weight of burnout and overstimulation taking a toll on us. It wasn’t just the physical exhaustion—it was the emotional edge that crept into everything we did. The smallest things became triggers, and we found ourselves snapping over things that wouldn’t normally bother us.

It hit me hardest when I started saying things I didn’t really mean—things that came out of my frustration and desire to fix the situation. At one point, I even said, “Well, I’ll just take the kids and leave for a few hours so you don’t have to deal with us.” As soon as the words were out, I regretted them. I didn’t mean it, but it reflected just how drained I felt and how desperate I was for a solution.

Matt and I both recognize these signs of burnout now—the irritation, the short tempers, the way we withdraw from each other without meaning to. It’s not who we are at our core, but it’s a signal that we need to take a step back and prioritize our own well-being and connection.

We know that when we’re operating on empty, we’re not the parents or partners we want to be. And while it’s hard to admit when we’re at that breaking point, it’s necessary if we want to grow and move forward as a family.

Why Alone Time is Essential

Parenting is rewarding, but it’s also demanding. Without time to recharge, it’s easy to feel burnt out, overwhelmed, or disconnected from your partner. Alone time allows you to:

  • Recharge Your Energy: Taking time for yourself helps you refuel emotionally and mentally, so you can parent from a place of calm rather than exhaustion.
  • Strengthen Your Relationship: Spending intentional time with your partner helps you reconnect, build intimacy, and tackle parenting challenges as a team.
  • Set a Healthy Example: When your kids see you prioritizing self-care and your relationship, they learn the importance of balance and healthy boundaries.

How Alone Time Benefits Your Marriage

Date nights and quality time with your partner are more than just a chance to relax—they’re essential for maintaining a strong relationship. Here’s why:

  • Improved Communication: Without the distractions of daily life, you can focus on truly hearing and understanding each other.
  • Deeper Connection: Alone time lets you reconnect as individuals, not just as parents.
  • Shared Joy: Doing something fun or meaningful together reminds you why you fell in love in the first place.

For Matt and me, date nights are our way of hitting the reset button. This Friday, we’re taking the kids to stay with family so we can enjoy an evening just for us. It’s not extravagant, but it’s intentional—and that makes all the difference.

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Practical Tips for Making it Happen

Finding time for yourself or your partner isn’t always easy, but it’s worth the effort. Here are some practical ways to prioritize alone time:

  1. Schedule It In: Treat alone time like any other important appointment. Put it on the calendar and commit to it.
  2. Ask for Help: Don’t be afraid to lean on family or trusted friends for childcare. Most people are happy to help if you ask.
  3. Keep It Simple: Alone time doesn’t have to be elaborate. A quiet evening at home, a walk around the neighborhood, or coffee at your favorite spot can be just as meaningful as a night out.
  4. Make It Regular: Aim for consistency. Whether it’s a monthly date night or a weekly hour to yourself, regular alone time helps you recharge consistently.

Why It’s Good for Your Kids, Too

It’s easy to feel guilty about taking time for yourself, but the truth is, your kids benefit when you do. When parents take time to recharge and strengthen their relationship:

  • Kids see a model of healthy self-care.
  • They feel secure knowing their parents have a strong bond.
  • Parents return with more patience, energy, and joy to share with their children.

Recognizing the Need for a Pause

One of the biggest challenges we face as parents is the constant interruptions from our kids. Could Matt and I isolate ourselves to a single room and close the door? Sure. But somehow, they always find us. Whether it’s the endless questions, the persistent “mom” or “dad” calls, or even the sound of their footsteps coming down the hallway, it’s enough to feel overstimulating after a long day.

Adding to this challenge is the fact that we currently live with my parents. We don’t have a whole house to retreat to—just our bedroom, while the kids share a room of their own. The rest of the house is fair game for everyone. So even when we try to carve out a little space for ourselves, the reality is that there’s no real escape.

It’s not just the interruptions, though. It’s the way the kids argue in the next room, burst in needing something right when we’ve sat down for a conversation, or wander through the shared spaces looking for attention. Even when we love them with all our hearts, those moments can leave us feeling completely drained.

These are the signs we’ve learned to recognize—it’s our internal alarm system telling us it’s time for a pause. When everything feels too loud, too chaotic, and too constant, we know we need to step back, create intentional time for ourselves, and reset.

Prioritizing alone time as a couple isn’t about escaping the kids or neglecting our responsibilities—it’s about recharging so we can show up as the parents and partners we want to be. And sometimes, that means acknowledging that even the little things, like footsteps in the hallway or the lack of personal space, are reminders that we’re overdue for a break.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Alone Time is a Gift to Your Family

Alone time for parents isn’t selfish—it’s an investment in your well-being, your marriage, and your family as a whole. Taking even small moments to recharge allows you to show up as the best version of yourself for your kids and your partner.

This Friday, Matt and I are taking that time, and we couldn’t be more excited. Whether it’s a date night, a quiet walk, or an hour to yourself, I encourage you to find ways to prioritize alone time in your own life. You—and your family—will be better for it.

How do you prioritize alone time as a parent?

I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments. Let’s inspire each other to take care of ourselves and our relationships!

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A parent and child sitting together, talking about mental health.
Family Journey

How to Talk to Your Kids About Mental Health

by Denise Wright

Breaking the Silence Around Mental Health

Mental health can feel overwhelming. Talking to kids about mental health… even more so. But it’s one of the most important conversations parents can have. Whether it’s helping them understand their own emotions or teaching them how to support others, opening the door to these discussions early creates a foundation of empathy, understanding, and resilience.

In this post, we’ll explore practical tips for starting conversations about mental health with your children, making the topic approachable, and creating a safe space for them to express their feelings.

Why Talking to Your Kids About Mental Health Matters

Mental health impacts every aspect of our lives, from how we think and feel to how we interact with others. Helping kids understand the importance of mental health early on:

  • Normalizes the conversation and reduces stigma.
  • Encourages them to express their feelings and seek help when needed.
  • Teaches them to recognize signs of stress or anxiety in themselves and others.

Start the Conversation Early

You don’t need to wait for a “big moment” to talk about mental health. Everyday situations—like a bad day at school or a sibling argument—are great opportunities to introduce the topic.

Practical Tips:

  • Use age-appropriate language: For younger kids, explain feelings like sadness or worry in simple terms. For older kids, you can introduce concepts like stress or anxiety.
  • Lead by example: Share moments when you felt overwhelmed and how you managed those emotions.
  • Ask open-ended questions: Instead of “Are you okay?” try “How are you feeling about what happened?”

Create a Safe Space for Sharing

Kids need to feel safe to talk about their feelings without fear of judgment or punishment.

How to Create a Safe Space:

  • Be present: Put away distractions and focus on them during the conversation.
  • Validate their feelings: Let them know it’s okay to feel sad, angry, or scared.
  • Avoid jumping to solutions: Sometimes, they just need to be heard.

Teach Them Healthy Coping Strategies

It’s not enough to talk about mental health; kids also need tools to navigate their emotions.

Coping Strategies to Share:

  • Deep breathing exercises to manage stress.
  • Journaling to express feelings they might not want to say out loud.
  • Physical activity as a mood booster.
  • Creative outlets like drawing or music.

Know When to Seek Help

Sometimes, kids need more support than we can provide as parents. Teach them that it’s okay to ask for help.

Signs Your Child Might Need Professional Support:

  • Persistent sadness or worry that doesn’t go away.
  • Withdrawal from friends or activities they usually enjoy.
  • Trouble sleeping or changes in appetite.

If you notice these signs, reach out to a school counselor, pediatrician, or mental health professional.

Breaking the Cycle: Teaching What You Weren’t Taught

One of the hardest parts of raising kids to understand the importance of mental health is navigating it yourself—especially when it wasn’t something you grew up understanding. Mental health wasn’t openly discussed in my childhood. It wasn’t ignored, but it also wasn’t something we prioritized or even acknowledged. Instead, I learned to navigate my big feelings on my own, which often left me feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to process what I was experiencing.

When I was a child, I faced significant loss that shaped me in ways I’m only beginning to understand. Losing my older brother to a tragic accident was devastating, and the grief felt unbearable at times. A year later, my older sister got married and moved out, leaving me as the oldest at home. It felt like my world shifted in the blink of an eye.

Without tools or guidance, I internalized a lot of those emotions. I didn’t know how to talk about the sadness, confusion, or even guilt I sometimes felt. I learned to keep going, to push through, and to cope in silence.

Now, as a parent, I see how those experiences shaped me. They taught me resilience, yes, but they also taught me to bury my feelings instead of addressing them. I don’t want that for my kids. I want them to know it’s okay to feel big emotions, to talk about their struggles, and to seek help when they need it.

What I’m Learning Along the Way:

  • It’s Okay Not to Have All the Answers: I remind myself that I don’t need to be an expert to start the conversation. Acknowledging mental health is an important first step.
  • Modeling Matters: Kids learn by watching us. When I take time to process my emotions or talk openly about struggles, I’m showing them that it’s okay to do the same.
  • Give Yourself Grace: Breaking generational cycles isn’t easy. There will be moments of doubt and missteps, but I try to focus on progress, not perfection.

By being open about my own learning process, I’m showing my kids that it’s never too late to prioritize mental health—and that even parents are still growing.

Keep the Conversation Going

Talking to your kids about mental health isn’t a one-time conversation—it’s an ongoing dialogue. By normalizing these discussions, providing a safe space, and teaching healthy coping strategies, we can help our kids develop the resilience they need to navigate life’s challenges.

Start small, stay consistent, and remember that it’s okay not to have all the answers. Most importantly, you’re showing up and starting the conversation.

How do you approach mental health conversations with your kids? Share your tips in the comments—we’d love to learn from you!

A thoughtful woman reflecting on her insecurities.
Inspiration and Reflection

When Insecurities Take Over: Lessons From a Tough Week

by Denise Wright

Insecurities have driven much of my behavior this week, and it’s time to take accountability. This isn’t your typical “parenting” post. I’m not here to share tips or lessons learned from my kids. Instead, this post is about me—about the insecurities, struggles, and mistakes that have taken center stage in my life this week.

Matt and I have been in a perpetual argument for days now, and I know a lot of it stems from me. My insecurities, my need to fix things immediately, and my inability to give him the space he needs have turned small moments into big conflicts.

I’ve said and done things I wouldn’t normally say or do, and it’s left me feeling drained. But I believe there’s healing in speaking openly about these struggles—acknowledging the mistakes, holding myself accountable, and taking the steps to seek help. Maybe you’ve been here too. If so, I hope my story reminds you that you’re not alone.

Recognizing the Cycle of Insecurities

This week made me painfully aware of how my insecurities drive my actions. When Matt feels frustrated or upset, my first instinct is to assume it’s my fault. That assumption triggers a need to fix the situation immediately, even when he needs space. Instead of letting him process, I push for solutions, which only escalates the tension.

It’s a cycle I’ve been stuck in for years: insecurity, overreaction, and regret. Recognizing it is one thing, but breaking it? That’s something I’m still working on.

Owning My Part in Letting Insecurities Take Over

I said and did things this week that I wish I could take back. Words spoken in frustration, actions driven by fear—it’s not who I want to be, but it’s who I’ve been in those moments.

Part of the healing process is accountability. I can’t undo what’s been said or done, but I can take ownership. I can apologize, not just to Matt, but to myself for letting insecurities control me. And I can work toward becoming the person I want to be: someone who listens more, reacts less, and allows space for others to feel without making it about me.

Seeking Help to Overcome Insecurities

This week, I let my insecurities get the better of me, leading to moments I deeply regret. In a breakdown, I turned to TikTok Live, momentarily seeking input and validation from strangers—something I quickly realized was a mistake. As soon as it hit me how inappropriate and unproductive that was, I immediately ended the livestream. But not before people I care about saw it and started reaching out, worried and confused.

To those who saw that moment and felt concerned, I want to apologize. It wasn’t fair to pull others into my raw, unfiltered emotions like that, especially in such a public way. My intention wasn’t to alarm or cause hurt, but I know my actions may have done just that. I’m sorry for not handling my emotions more constructively and privately.

This moment also brought up a lot of unresolved pain. There are people in my life—people I’ve loved deeply and considered lifelong friends—who have completely blocked me from their lives. This isn’t a new experience; I’ve dealt with this kind of loss since my teenage years. My insecurities tell me it’s because of how I’ve tried to fix things and, in doing so, made everything worse. Whether or not that’s true, the pattern feels inescapable, and it feeds my belief that I’ll never get it right.

Acknowledging this is painful, but I know I need to face it. I’m learning that healing isn’t just about repairing the present; it’s about addressing the wounds of the past that still shape my actions today.

Lessons Learned

Here’s what I’m taking away from this week:

  1. Not everything is my fault. People are allowed to have bad days, and it doesn’t always mean it’s about me.
  2. Space is healthy. Sometimes, giving someone time to process is the most loving thing I can do.
  3. Grace is essential. For Matt, for myself, and for the process of learning and growing.

Conclusion

I’m still raw, emotionally and mentally, but I’m learning. Speaking openly about this is part of my healing process. It’s a reminder to hold myself accountable, to seek help, and to give grace—to Matt, to myself, and to the journey we’re on.

If you’ve struggled with similar insecurities or conflicts, know that you’re not alone. Healing is messy, but it’s also worth it.

Let’s Talk About It

Have you ever struggled with insecurities in your relationships? Let’s talk about it. Share your story with me via email at [email protected] or connect with me directly on Facebook or Instagram. Together, we can navigate the ups and downs of personal growth.

Family together, symbolizing the strength of rebuilding relationships and trust after challenges.
Faith and Family

Rebuilding After a Fall: How We’re Putting Our Family Back Together

by Denise Wright

Life has a way of humbling you when you least expect it. For years, we lived with purpose and a clear direction—or so we thought. Then, in what felt like a moment, everything shifted, leaving us scrambling to pick up the pieces. This post isn’t about tying everything up in a neat little bow. We’re still very much in the process of rebuilding our lives. But I want to share what this journey looks like—raw, messy, and real—and how we’re learning to grow as a family through it all.

The Moment It Fell Apart

For over two decades, Matt carried his minister’s license. It wasn’t just a credential; it represented his calling and became a cornerstone of our lives. In 2021, when we felt the Lord leading us to pastor a small church in Montana, it felt like everything was falling into place. Working for the Lord in that capacity was something we always wanted, filled with both challenges and triumphs.

But life rarely follows a straight path. In Montana, Matt made a mistake that cost him his license, shaking the foundation of our lives. The weight of that loss hit us hard, forcing him to confront questions he didn’t have answers to: Who was he without that identity? How could we move forward as a family?

As if that weren’t enough, financial struggles forced us to leave Montana and return to Oklahoma. The move felt like defeat, as if everything we had worked for had crumbled beneath us. Moving back in with my parents—something we’ve had to do more than once in our 12 years of marriage—required a level of humility we weren’t sure we had in us to summon yet again.

In those moments, we felt like failures—sometimes, we still do. But we’re learning to show ourselves the same grace the Lord so freely gives. It’s a daily process, but that grace is what keeps us holding on and moving forward.

Rebuilding is a Choice

Hitting rock bottom brings an overwhelming temptation to stay there. Letting the pain consume you feels easier than facing the daunting climb out. When we were isolated in Montana—far from family support and grappling with the aftermath of Matt’s mistake—the weight of it all felt suffocating, as if being consumed was inevitable.

For our family, though, staying down was not an option. We committed to making changes—not just to our circumstances, but to our hearts, priorities, and vision for the future. Matt’s mistake painfully exposed a disconnect between us that we could no longer ignore. Addressing that divide became a necessary part of rebuilding and moving forward.

Rebuilding Trust, One Step at a Time

When everything finally came to light, the revelation hit like a tidal wave. I hadn’t seen it coming, and the weight of it left me reeling. I found myself questioning how we had strayed so far off track and wondering what we could have done differently.

Healing wasn’t just about addressing the mistake itself—the loss of Matt’s license, the move, or the ripple effects on our family. It also forced us to confront the deep wound of broken trust. Knowing that something so significant had been hidden from me cut deeper than I was prepared for, and it created additional friction between us that we couldn’t ignore.

While Matt and I worked through the fallout in our own ways, I wrestled with feelings of betrayal and sadness. Rebuilding wasn’t just about moving forward; it became a process of repairing trust, piece by fragile piece. Hurt like that doesn’t fade overnight. It demands time, honesty, and an enormous amount of grace—for him, for myself, and for us together.

Even with the challenges, we chose to see this season as an opportunity—a chance to reset, refocus, and rebuild. The path hasn’t been easy, but it has required us to let go of the need to have all the answers and instead commit to taking one step at a time, one day at a time, always together.

What Rebuilding Looks Like for Us

Rebuilding isn’t glamorous. It’s messy, raw, and often filled with hard conversations and uncomfortable truths. There have been more tears than I can count. But even in the midst of all that, this season has also brought glimpses of grace, hope, and growth that remind us why we’re fighting to move forward.

Here’s what this journey looks like for us right now:

1. Focusing on Family First

Our family has become the foundation of everything we’re rebuilding. That means learning to show up for each other even when emotions are high and wounds are fresh. We’ve had to be intentional about creating routines that bring stability to our kids, even on days when Matt and I are struggling with our own emotions.

Open and honest communication has become non-negotiable. We talk with our kids about the challenges we’re facing in age-appropriate ways, and Matt and I are working hard to model what it looks like to face struggles together, with honesty and humility.

2. Rebuilding Trust in Our Marriage

The hardest part of this season has been the work Matt and I have done as a couple. Rebuilding trust after it breaks requires immense effort. The hurt cuts deep, and we’ve both had to confront it directly.

This process demands constant listening, unwavering honesty, and a shared commitment to rebuild our relationship piece by piece. Forgiveness isn’t something you choose once; it’s a decision we make every day. Some days feel easier than others, but we remain determined to move forward together, even when the path feels challenging.

The Hidden Struggles Behind the Scenes

Matt and I have been married for 12 years, a journey marked by highs, lows, and everything in between. The mistake that happened wasn’t small; it was the kind of event that can tear couples apart. To clarify, this wasn’t infidelity or anything of that sort. It stemmed from a series of poor financial decisions and compromised choices, made because Matt found himself in a position where he was forced to choose between meeting our family’s needs and doing what was right.

The pain it caused created distance, fueled resentment and brought heartbreak that seemed impossible to overcome.

These struggles often remain hidden from the outside world. To others, we might appear as though we have it all together. People assume everything is fine because we’ve learned how to show up, smile, and keep moving forward. The reality, however, is far different. There were moments when we were barely holding on—moments when the weight of it all felt crushing and left us questioning whether we could make it through.

Facing the Pain and Choosing to Stay

What made it even harder were the comments and beliefs tied to the idea that, as a married couple, we are “one.” While I respect and understand the biblical foundation of that unity, it was said that Matt’s mistake was my mistake too. But I can’t fully agree with that. His actions were his own, and while they deeply impacted us both, they weren’t something I caused or participated in. That belief added a layer of pain I wasn’t prepared for and made an already difficult situation even more complicated.

By the grace of God and the foundation laid by our upbringing, we somehow managed to hold it all together. But that doesn’t mean it was easy—far from it. There were moments when it felt like we were hanging on by a thread, moments when one or both of us thought about walking away. There were nights of silence, days filled with tension, and times when we wondered if we had anything left to give to each other.

Yet, through it all, we kept choosing to stay. To fight for what we had built. To believe that healing was possible, even when it felt out of reach. Holding it together didn’t mean pretending everything was perfect. It meant being willing to face the broken pieces and work together to rebuild them—no matter how messy or painful the process might be.

3. Setting Long-Term Goals

We have focused on moving forward by setting clear, tangible goals for the future. For us, this means achieving financial freedom, planning for a home of our own, and building a strong foundation for our kids’ futures.

The road ahead feels overwhelming at times. The distance between where we are and where we want to be can seem daunting. But these goals keep us grounded and provide a sense of direction. They give us something to work toward as a family, even when challenges arise.

This journey has also driven us to share openly about the raw, unfiltered reality of raising kids and navigating life’s hardships. Many versions of our story have been shared from different perspectives. While we understand those perspectives exist, we feel strongly about sharing our journey in our own voice.

Our intention is not to stir hurt or cause division but to offer honesty about where we are and how we are working to rebuild. Through transparency, we hope to encourage others who might feel alone in their struggles. If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that connection and healing come from stepping into the light, even when it feels uncomfortable.

4. Leaning Into Faith

Our faith has endured challenges we never anticipated. Trusting God as life falls apart hasn’t been easy, but it has grounded and anchored us throughout this season.

We place our trust in Him, even when the “why” remains unclear. Prayer and scripture provide daily reminders of His grace and strength, becoming essential for not only rebuilding our lives but also healing our hearts.

Matt and I have always leaned toward introversion, but the events we’ve faced have caused us to retreat even further. Letting people into our lives feels riskier now, knowing how easily relationships can unintentionally cause hurt. Right now, we are prioritizing what matters most: the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of our family and its future.

If we seem less present or show up differently than we once did, please know it’s not about anyone else. We are intentionally creating the space we need to heal and regroup as a family. This season demands our full attention, and we deeply appreciate the patience and understanding of those who care about us.

The Lessons We’re Learning

This season has been filled with hard-earned lessons:

  • Grace Matters: We’ve had to learn to extend grace to ourselves and each other. Mistakes don’t define us—how we choose to move forward does.
  • Humility Is a Gift: Living with my parents again has been humbling, but it’s also reminded us of the power of starting over with help.
  • Trust Takes Time: Rebuilding trust isn’t a quick process. It’s built through consistent actions, honesty, and a willingness to confront the hard stuff together.
  • Faith Isn’t Easy, but It’s Worth It: Trusting God through uncertainty is challenging, but it’s also what sustains us when everything else feels shaky.

A Work in Progress

We haven’t reached the finish line yet. Truthfully, I’m not even sure what the finish line looks like. What I do know is this: rebuilding doesn’t require perfection. It demands showing up every day, even when it’s hard. It’s about choosing hope over despair and consistently taking small, intentional steps forward.

If you’re in a season of rebuilding, remember—you’re not alone. The process is messy and painful, but it also holds the potential for growth, healing, and grace. Let’s navigate this journey together, one step at a time.

A Season of Healing and Hope

This season of life has been heavy, but it’s also been one of reflection, growth, and hope. We’re learning that rebuilding doesn’t happen overnight—it’s a series of small, deliberate steps. And while the process isn’t easy, it’s teaching us the value of grace, perseverance, and faith.

If you’re in a season of rebuilding, whether it’s your marriage, your family, or even just yourself, know that you’re not alone. Healing is possible, even in the messiest and most painful moments. Lean into grace, take it one step at a time, and remember that progress, no matter how small, is still progress.

Let’s keep the conversation going! If this post resonated with you, you might also find these resources helpful:

We’d love to hear from you—what’s been your greatest lesson in seasons of rebuilding? Share in the comments or connect with us through the links above. Together, we can find strength and encouragement for the journey ahead. ❤️

Family unpacking boxes in a new home, symbolizing the transition from moving to stability.
Family Journey

Moving Toward Stability: Why We Chose to Settle Down

by Denise Wright

For years, our family lived a life filled with change. We packed up our lives and started over in new places more times than I can count. Each move brought hope for something better, a fresh start, and a chance to follow what we felt was our calling. But after years of moving, we finally decided to settle down and create a permanent home.

This wasn’t an easy choice. It came with its fair share of challenges and heartache. While we’re still in the early stages of working toward our goals, we believe this decision is a step in the right direction for our family. In this post, I’ll share why we chose to stop moving and how we’re starting to build a foundation for our future.

The Challenges of Constant Moving

If you’ve ever uprooted your family, you know how hard it can be. Moving isn’t just about packing boxes and renting a truck. It’s about leaving behind familiar faces, routines, and the sense of security that comes with having a place to call home.

For us, moving often meant starting from scratch—finding a new community, adjusting to different schools or churches, and figuring out how to make ends meet in unfamiliar circumstances. Each new chapter came with its own set of challenges, and while we embraced these changes with faith and hope, the emotional toll began to add up. This transient lifestyle was even more impactful for me, as it compounded the one I grew up with; my father was a pastor for most of my life, and moving frequently was simply part of our family dynamic.

Our kids, though resilient and adaptable, began to feel the strain as well. Each move brought the challenge of making new friends, adjusting to new routines, and saying goodbye to the familiar. As parents, it became increasingly clear that stability was essential for our family to truly thrive. We couldn’t ignore the pattern we had fallen into—a seemingly never-ending loop of starting over and feeling like we were failing to build something lasting. We realized we didn’t want to pass that same cycle onto our kids, repeating the struggles we endured during our own childhoods.

Why We Moved So Often

Our moves weren’t always driven by a clear calling. In fact, the greater part of the last 12 years of moving was fueled by financial challenges or mental struggles. Sometimes, we simply needed a change to survive—to find stability or escape difficult circumstances. (And yes, there was even that one time we made the decision to move on the flip of a coin. It’s funny now, but at the time, it was a reflection of how lost we felt.)

While some moves were intentional and rooted in what we believed was a calling from God, those moments were fewer than we’d like to admit. When we did feel led by Him, we stepped out in faith, following doors we believed He opened for us. These moves often took us to unexpected places and taught us invaluable lessons. But even when the path seemed clear, the reality was that no move came without its challenges.

The Move to Montana: A Turning Point

One of the most significant moves we made was to Montana, where my husband, Matt, took on the role of pastoring a small church. It was a leap of faith, and we truly believed it was where we were meant to be. The opportunities and experiences there were unlike anything we’d ever had before, and we poured our hearts into that chapter of our lives.

But life doesn’t always go as planned. After two and a half years in Montana, we found ourselves at a crossroads. A mistake Matt made ultimately cost him his minister’s license, and the weight of that, combined with mounting financial struggles, made it impossible for us to stay. We couldn’t afford to live in Montana anymore, and we recognized that staying there wasn’t going to help us grow as a family.

The decision to leave wasn’t easy—it was humbling and painful—but it was necessary. Returning to Oklahoma became the reset we desperately needed to rebuild our lives and refocus on all aspects of our family’s future.

Why We Decided to Settle Down

After years of moving, we realized it was time to hit the pause button. Our family needed a reset—a chance to refocus, rebuild, and create a stable foundation for our future. Moving back to Oklahoma gave us that opportunity.

We’ve chosen to make Oklahoma our permanent home for several reasons:

  1. Financial Stability:
    Moving is expensive. The costs of relocating, finding new housing, and adjusting to a different cost of living had taken a toll. By settling down, we can focus on building financial freedom and working toward owning a place of our own.
  2. Family Support:
    Living with my parents has given us the chance to regroup and lean on the support of family. It’s allowed us to create long-term goals while giving our kids a sense of consistency and belonging.
  3. A Fresh Start:
    Staying in one place gives us the chance to work through past mistakes, learn from them, and build a future filled with purpose and growth.
  4. Our Kids’ Futures:
    We want to give our children a strong foundation—a place to call home and the stability to pursue their dreams without the constant upheaval of moving.

How We’re Building a Stable Future

Settling down doesn’t mean life suddenly becomes easy, but it does mean we can focus on what truly matters. We’ve set clear goals for our family over the next five years:

  1. Financial Freedom:
    We’re working toward paying off debt, saving for a home, and creating a budget that aligns with our long-term goals.
  2. Prioritizing Family Growth:
    By staying in one place, we can invest in activities and routines that strengthen our family bond—like homeschooling, family dinners, and local involvement.
  3. Creating a Permanent Home:
    While we’re currently living with my parents, we’re saving and planning for a home of our own in Oklahoma. This is more than a house; it’s the foundation for the life we want to build.
  4. Planning for the Kids’ Futures:
    From educational opportunities to instilling values that will guide them through life, we’re working to prepare our kids for success in every sense of the word.

The Lessons We’ve Learned from Moving

Looking back, I don’t regret the years of moving. Each chapter taught us something valuable about faith, resilience, and what truly matters. Moving gave us experiences we’ll cherish forever, but it also taught us the importance of creating roots.

Here are a few lessons we’ve learned:

  • God’s Plan Is Bigger Than Ours:
    Every move had a purpose, even if we didn’t see it at the time. Trusting His plan, even in the hard moments, has been a constant theme in our journey.
  • Stability Matters:
    While adventure is exciting, stability provides the space for growth, healing, and thriving as a family.
  • Mistakes Don’t Define Us:
    Moving back to Oklahoma was humbling, but it also gave us the opportunity to reset, refocus, and ensure we never repeat the mistakes of the past.

Conclusion: Finding Peace in Settling Down

After years of moving, we’ve finally found peace in settling down. While it wasn’t the easiest journey, it is shaping us in countless ways. Choosing to stay in Oklahoma is about more than geography—it’s about creating a stable, loving environment where our family can heal, grow, and thrive.

If you’re a parent navigating the challenges of moving or wondering if it’s time to settle down, know that you’re not alone. Every family’s journey is different, but what matters most is finding what works for you and your loved ones.

And if you’re curious to hear more about our family’s story and the lessons we’ve learned, check out our podcast, Our Family Experiment. You can find all our episodes here.

Parent managing anxiety while holding a child’s hand in a peaceful outdoor setting, symbolizing support and connection.
Parenting Challenges

Parenting Through Anxiety: Coping Mechanisms That Help

by Denise Wright

Introduction: Finding Peace Amid the Chaos

Parenting is tough. Parenting with anxiety? That can feel downright impossible some days. As a mom with social anxiety, I know how overwhelming it can be to balance the responsibilities of raising kids while managing your mental health. The constant mental chatter, fear of judgment, and the endless “what-ifs” can make even the simplest tasks feel daunting.

But here’s the thing—I’ve learned that anxiety doesn’t have to define your parenting journey. With time, trial, and (a lot of) grace, I’ve discovered coping mechanisms that truly help. In this post, I’ll share my experiences and practical tips to support you navigate parenting through anxiety.

What Is Anxiety and How Does It Impact Parenting?

Anxiety is more than just feeling worried or stressed. It’s a mental health condition that can manifest in physical, emotional, and cognitive ways. For parents, anxiety often amplifies common challenges:

  • Overthinking every decision (“Am I doing this right?”).
  • Fear of judgment from other parents.
  • Avoiding social interactions like playdates or school events.
  • Struggling with perfectionism and setting impossible standards for yourself.

Anxiety impacts your ability to be present, which can sometimes create feelings of guilt. But the good news is acknowledging it is the first step toward change.

I often hear people from my parent’s generation say, “Anxiety wasn’t a thing back in my day.” While I respect their experiences, my response is always the same: Just because something didn’t have a name or wasn’t openly discussed doesn’t mean it didn’t exist. It simply means people likely suffered in silence, not knowing what to call the heavy burden they were carrying or how to deal with it.

The truth is, that anxiety and depression have been part of the human experience for as long as we’ve existed. Even in the Bible, some of the most faithful and revered figures wrestled with these struggles. Their stories show us that experiencing anxiety or depression doesn’t make you weak or lacking in faith—it makes you human.

Take King David, for example. In the Psalms, he pours out his heart to God, expressing deep sorrow, fear, and abandonment. Psalm 6:6 says, “I am weary with my groaning; all the night make I my bed to swim; I water my couch with my tears.” David, a man after God’s own heart, wasn’t immune to the overwhelming emotions that life can bring.

Then there’s Elijah, a prophet who witnessed God’s power in extraordinary ways, yet he, too, experienced a season of deep despair. After a great victory over the prophets of Baal, Elijah fled for his life and prayed to die. In 1 Kings 19:4, he said, “It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers.” Exhausted, overwhelmed, and feeling utterly alone, Elijah found himself in a dark place. But God didn’t leave him there—He ministered to Elijah through an angel, providing food, water, and rest, demonstrating His care in Elijah’s weakest moment.

Even Jesus, the Son of God, experienced profound anguish during his time on earth. In the Garden of Gethsemane, as he prepared to face the cross, Jesus said to his disciples, “My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death” (Mark 14:34). In his agony, he prayed with such intensity that his sweat was “as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground” (Luke 22:44). Jesus, fully God and fully man, understood the crushing weight of human suffering and turned to the Father in prayer.

These examples remind us that anxiety and depression are not new phenomena. They’ve been with us through the ages, often unspoken but undeniably real. The difference today is that we have the vocabulary and resources to address them—counseling, community, and, for many, a strengthening of faith.

So, when someone tells me that “anxiety wasn’t a thing back in the day,” I gently remind them that it absolutely was. The difference is that now we are learning to face it, name it, and deal with it—just as many before us have done, often leaning on God’s Word, His presence, and His provision. By acknowledging these struggles, we create space for healing, connection, and hope for future generations.

Grounding Techniques for Parenting with Anxiety

One of the biggest challenges of living with anxiety is how it steals your ability to stay present in the moment. You might be at the park with your kids, but instead of enjoying the laughter and play, your mind is racing—worrying about tomorrow’s dentist appointment, replaying that awkward comment you made last week, or imagining uncomfortable interactions you might have with other parents nearby.

To counteract this, I’ve learned to practice grounding techniques. My favorite is the 5-4-3-2-1 method:

  1. Name 5 things you can see around you.
  2. Name 4 things you can touch.
  3. Name 3 things you can hear.
  4. Name 2 things you can smell.
  5. Name 1 thing you can taste.

It sounds simple and possibly ridiculous, but it works wonders to bring your focus back to the here and now—where your kids need you most.

Routines That Help Reduce Parenting Anxiety

Anxiety thrives on uncertainty, and as a parent, life is full of unpredictable moments. While I’d love to say our family has a perfectly consistent routine to minimize anxiety triggers, the truth is, we’re still figuring it out.

Our mornings are often a work in progress. The kids usually wake up and head straight for their tablets, waiting until Matt or I come out of the bedroom to start the day. From there, it’s a mix of gentle (and sometimes not-so-gentle) reminders:

  • Feed the dogs and let them outside.
  • Go to the bathroom.
  • Eat breakfast (if they haven’t already).
  • Get out of your pajamas and get started on schoolwork.

It’s not picture-perfect, and some mornings feel more chaotic than others. But what I’ve learned is that even small efforts toward consistency can make a difference. We’re working on setting clear expectations and creating a routine that helps everyone—kids and parents—start the day on the right foot.

If your mornings feel more “wing it” than “well-oiled machine,” know that you’re not alone. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s progress. Even the smallest steps toward structure can bring a sense of calm to your day. And honestly, some days, just making it through is enough.

Building a Support System

This one was a tough lesson for me. As a mom with social anxiety, the idea of asking for help often feels like admitting failure. On top of that, my mind tends to process thoughts more slowly than others, so even when I muster up the courage to speak, getting my words out can feel like a monumental task.

But over time, I’ve learned that parenting isn’t meant to be a solo journey. Having a support system—whether it’s your partner, a close friend, or even an online parenting group—can make all the difference.

Here are a few ways I’ve started leaning into my support system:

  • Texting a friend when I need encouragement.
  • Communicating with my spouse when I just need the space to step away and decompress.
  • Joining an online mom’s group where I can connect with others who truly understand.

You don’t have to share every detail of your anxiety, but letting people in, even just a little, can lighten the load. Sometimes, simply knowing you’re not alone is the first step toward finding strength in your journey.

Talking to Your Kids About Anxiety

One of the best gifts you can give your kids is emotional intelligence. Talk to them about anxiety in an age-appropriate way. This not only normalizes mental health discussions but also helps them build empathy.

For example, I’ve explained to my kids that “Mommy sometimes feels nervous in big groups, but I’m working on it.” I also encourage them to share their thoughts whenever they are unsure of how they re feeling.

By modeling openness, you’re teaching your kids that it’s okay to have hard feelings—and that they can be managed. Never punish your child for being human.

On a side note, it’s important not to let anxiety become the go-to explanation for everything in your household. I’ve noticed a cultural shift where the pendulum has swung from “anxiety doesn’t exist” to “everything happens because of anxiety.” While it’s vital to recognize and address anxiety when it’s genuinely present, we also need to acknowledge that sometimes, life just happens.

Not everything can—or should—be attributed to a mental health condition. Challenges, mistakes, or even bad days aren’t always the result of anxiety. Sometimes they’re simply a part of being human. Teaching this balance to our kids is especially important.

For example, if your child struggles with a tough math problem or feels nervous about a new experience, it’s okay to validate their feelings without immediately labeling it as anxiety. Encouraging resilience and problem-solving skills alongside emotional awareness can help them navigate life’s ups and downs without always defaulting to a diagnosis.

Mental health awareness is a powerful tool, but like any tool, it needs to be used wisely. By maintaining this balance, we can ensure that anxiety is addressed thoughtfully without overshadowing the broader scope of life’s challenges and growth opportunities.

Self-Care Strategies to Ease Parenting Anxiety

I know, I know. Self-care feels impossible, right? But hear me out—it doesn’t have to mean spa days or weekends away. It can be as simple as:

  • Waking up 15 minutes earlier for quiet time with your coffee (or custom redbull mix “go-go juice”, in my case).
  • Take a long shower while your partner watches the kids.
  • Listening to a favorite podcast while folding laundry.

When you’re running on empty, anxiety has a way of taking over. Prioritizing small moments for yourself helps you recharge so you can show up as the parent your kids need.

When to Seek Professional Help for Anxiety

There’s no shame in needing extra support. While I’m not currently in therapy, I know it can be a game-changer for managing anxiety and unpacking deeper issues. I’m working with my doctor to take that step because I’ve seen how valuable it can be for others, and I know it’s something I need in my journey as well.

If therapy feels like too big of a leap right now, there are smaller steps you can take to start managing anxiety. Books, podcasts, or apps designed for mental health support can be great tools to begin with. Apps like Headspace and Calm have been helpful for me in creating moments of calm and mindfulness in my day-to-day life.

Remember, seeking help—whether through therapy or other resources—is a sign of strength, not weakness. Taking those first steps, no matter how small, can make a big difference. You’re not alone in this, and there’s always support available.

Encouragement for Parents Living with Anxiety

Parenting through anxiety isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up, even when it’s hard. Some days will be messy. Others will be magical. Through it all, remember that you are not alone.

Your kids don’t need a perfect parent—they need you. And by taking steps to care for yourself, you’re teaching them resilience, empathy, and the importance of prioritizing mental health.

Conclusion: Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

What coping mechanisms have helped you navigate parenting through anxiety? Share your tips with us at [email protected]—I’d love to hear from you!

If this post resonated with you, feel free to share it with another parent who might need encouragement today. And if you’re looking for more relatable stories, tips, and honest conversations about parenting, check out our podcast, Our Family Experiment. You can find where to listen here.

Parenting isn’t easy, but together, we can navigate the ups and downs with grace, humor, and a little extra support. You’ve got this!

Parenting Podcast
Family Journey

Parenting Podcast Episode 1 Recap: Parenting Without a Playbook

by Denise Wright

Parenting is unpredictable, messy, and full of surprises—but it’s also deeply rewarding. In the first episode of Our Family Experiment, Matt and I dove into the reality of raising kids without a manual. If you’ve ever felt like you’re figuring things out on the fly, this parenting podcast episode is for you.

What We Talked About on our Parenting Podcast

Our debut episode highlights the lessons, challenges, and joys of parenting. Here are some key takeaways:

1. Parenting is a Journey of Learning
From diaper disasters to navigating big feelings, every parent has their “winging it” moments. Matt and I shared our own stories about figuring things out along the way, sometimes with hilarious results.

2. Faith as a Foundation
For us, faith is the cornerstone of our parenting journey. We shared how leaning on prayer and trusting in God’s plan has brought strength and clarity during life’s challenges. And let’s just say we’ve learned—sometimes the hard way—that making major decisions for your family’s future should never, I repeat never, involve flipping a coin!

3. Wins and Fails: A Peek Into Real Life
Parenting isn’t always pretty, but it’s full of relatable moments. In this episode, we shared a parenting win that gave us hope and a fail that had us laughing in hindsight.

4. What the Kids Think
Our favorite part of the episode was hearing from Ethan and Addison. They offered their candid (and often hilarious) take on having parents who don’t always have it together. Spoiler: the kids were uncharacteristically shy in this episode!

Why You’ll Love This Parenting Podcast

The goal of Our Family Experiment is to remind parents that nobody has all the answers. Parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress, love, and showing up for your kids every day.

Listen to our Parenting Podcast

Missed Episode 1? No worries! Tune in now:

Let’s Hear from You

What did you think of Episode 1 of our parenting podcast? Share your thoughts by emailing us at [email protected] or connect with us on social media. Let’s navigate the ups and downs of parenting together!

Encouraging Kids
Faith and Family

How Encouraging Kids Can Shape Their Future and Build Their Confidence

by Denise Wright

Parenting is filled with questions, but one of the most important is this: How can we help our kids become the best versions of themselves? Encouraging kids to follow their passions is a powerful way to support their growth, confidence, and happiness. But it’s not always easy. As parents, we walk the fine line between guiding them and allowing them to explore their interests.

In this post, I’m sharing practical, heartfelt advice on how to encourage your kids to pursue their passions and embrace who they’re meant to be.

Why Encouraging Kids to Pursue Their Passions Matters

Encouraging kids to follow their passions isn’t just about helping them find a hobby or career; it’s about nurturing their confidence and teaching them that their interests have value. When kids feel supported, they’re more likely to:

  • Take risks and try new things.
  • Develop resilience when faced with challenges.
  • Build a strong sense of self and identity.
  • Learn the importance of dedication and hard work.

Passions spark creativity and joy, and as parents, we have the privilege of fanning that flame.

Redefining Success: Preparing Our Kids for a Future Beyond the 9-to-5

For Matt and me, we’ve recently come to a profound realization about the future we’re setting up for our kids. We’re not just guiding them toward independence but also encouraging them to think beyond the traditional “career” path. In today’s world, where opportunities extend far beyond the typical 9-to-5 job, we want to prepare them to embrace flexibility, creativity, and self-reliance in how they approach work and life.

Matt and I are both content creators who work from home, and our careers are anything but conventional. Matt is an SEO writer, crafting articles that help businesses thrive online, and he’s also channeling his passion for storytelling into publishing several fictional books. On top of that, he joins me every week on our parenting podcast, where we share the ups, downs, and lessons of raising a family.

As for me, I’ve poured my heart into building and operating our family blog, a space where I connect with other parents to offer advice, share stories, and create resources. Together, our work reflects the kind of future we envision for our kids—one where they can pursue their passions, embrace creativity, and design a life that brings them joy and fulfillment.

By modeling this lifestyle, we hope to inspire our children to explore their interests and develop the skills they need to carve out their own unique paths. After all, the world is evolving, and so should the way we think about careers and success.

Signs Your Child Has Found a Passion

It can be exciting to watch your kids light up about something, but how do you know when they’ve truly found a passion? Look for these signs:

  1. They talk about it constantly.
    Whether it’s art, sports, or science, kids who are passionate will find every opportunity to bring it up. Currently, for our kids, it’s video games, their desire to create custom mods, and how the games can be improved.
  2. They dedicate free time to it.
    If your child willingly spends hours practicing, creating, or diving deeper into their interests, it’s a strong sign they’ve discovered something truly special. Our daughter Addison has recently been honing her drawing skills with the guidance of her cousins and grandfather. Creativity seems to run in my family—several relatives are talented artists, including one who achieved remarkable success as a portrait and sculptor artist. One of my uncle’s proudest moments and missed opportunities was being featured alongside Michael Jackson at his studio in Arizona. It’s inspiring to see Addison carry on this artistic legacy and make it her own.
  3. They show pride in their progress.
    Seeing them beam with pride over a new skill or achievement is a clear indicator that they’ve found something meaningful.

5 Ways to Encourage Your Kids to Follow Their Passions

1. Pay Attention to What Lights Them Up

The first step to encouraging kids is to observe. What excites them? What topics do they keep coming back to? Take note of the activities that spark their interest and ask open-ended questions like:

  • “What do you love about this?”
  • “How does it make you feel?”

Even if their current passion seems fleeting, showing interest tells them their feelings and experiences are valid.

2. Provide Opportunities to Explore

Sometimes, kids need hands-on experiences to truly discover their passions. Look for local classes, workshops, or clubs that align with their interests. For example:

  • If they love animals, consider a junior zookeeper program.
  • If they enjoy building, try a LEGO robotics camp.

These opportunities not only refine their skills but also show them that their passions are worth investing in.

3. Offer Support Without Taking Over

It’s easy to want to jump in and “help” when we see our kids exploring their passions. But there’s a fine line between supporting and taking over. Let your kids take the lead, and remember:

  • Encourage them to set their own goals.
  • Celebrate progress, not just achievements.
  • Be their cheerleader, not their manager.

For instance, if your child is passionate about drawing, provide the supplies and a dedicated space but let them decide what they want to create.

4. Share Stories of Perseverance

Kids need to understand that pursuing passions isn’t always easy. Share stories of people (including yourself!) who overcame obstacles to follow their dreams. Highlight lessons like:

  • Failure is a stepping stone to success.
  • Growth happens outside of your comfort zone.
  • Hard work often leads to the most rewarding results.
  • The things worth having in life take work and consistency.

These lessons help kids see challenges as opportunities rather than roadblocks.

5. Be Flexible and Open-Minded

Passions can evolve over time, and that’s okay! What your child loves today might not be their dream tomorrow. Encourage exploration and remind them it’s all part of the journey.

  • “It’s great that you’re curious about so many things.”
  • “Trying new interests helps you learn what you truly love.”

Early on Ethan was insistent that he wanted to grow up to be an engineer and design robots for a living. However, that has recently evolved into wanting to design wooden toys for children to play with. Only 11 years old and completely addicted to video gaming, I’m confident that his passion will only continue to evolve. One thing is for sure, he has a creative mind like his mama.

Addressing Parental Doubts

Sometimes, it’s hard not to question our kids’ interests, especially if they don’t align with our own. Maybe you’re unsure how a passion will translate into a career or worry they’re wasting time. Here’s the thing: passions are about joy and growth, not practicality. Trust that the skills they gain—like discipline, creativity, and resilience—will serve them no matter what.

What doesn’t always make sense to us as parents might make perfect sense to our kids. And honestly, that’s okay. They’re growing up in a world that’s constantly changing, one that looks vastly different from the one we knew even a decade ago.

How Things Used to Be

Take my husband, for example. Ten years ago, he made the bold decision to leave a traditional 9-to-5 job and pursue a career in writing while working from home—long before remote work became a mainstream concept. It wasn’t an easy decision, and it came with its fair share of criticism. His mom, bless her, had a hard time wrapping her head around it. She was raised in a generation where success was measured by climbing the corporate ladder and staying in a stable job for decades. To her, his choice seemed risky, even irresponsible.

What she couldn’t see at the time was the potential he saw in a new and evolving career path. Her concerns came from a place of love and a desire for him to succeed, but they were rooted in the mindset of her upbringing, not the changing opportunities of today. It wasn’t about doubting his abilities—it was about the fear of the unknown.

Fast forward to now, and that once unconventional decision has paid off in ways we couldn’t have imagined. It taught us an important lesson: just because something doesn’t align with the way we were raised or the rules we lived by doesn’t mean it’s wrong. Sometimes, it’s about trusting our kids to see possibilities we might miss and giving them the freedom to explore their own paths. After all, the world they’re navigating is theirs to shape, and it’s not always going to look like what we expect—or understand. And that’s okay.

How Faith Plays a Role in Encouraging Kids

For our family, faith is the foundation of everything we do, including how we parent. Encouraging kids to follow their passions includes reminding them that they are uniquely designed by God with talents and gifts meant to be nurtured. We often share Jeremiah 29:11 with our kids:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

This verse reassures them (and us) that their passions have a purpose, even if we don’t fully understand it yet.

Our Personal Experience with Encouraging Passions

Let me share a story about Ethan and Addison. Ethan discovered his love for building when he was just five years old, using blocks to construct anything from castles to robots. We provided him with opportunities to explore, from LEGO kits to STEM classes. Today, he’s still passionate about creating, and it’s been incredible to watch him grow.

Addison, on the other hand, has a creative soul and loves crafting. While it’s not my forte, I’ve learned to embrace her glitter-covered projects because they bring her so much joy. Seeing her confidence grow has been worth every vacuuming session!

The Benefits of Encouraging Kids to Follow Their Passions

When you encourage your kids, you’re not just supporting their hobbies—you’re building their confidence, strengthening your bond, and helping them discover who they are. Here are some lasting benefits:

  • Emotional well-being: Kids who feel supported are happier and more secure.
  • Stronger relationships: Shared passions create opportunities for connection.
  • Life skills: From discipline to problem-solving, they’ll gain tools for future success.

Final Thoughts

Encouraging kids to follow their passions is one of the greatest gifts we can give as parents. It’s about showing them that their interests matter and helping them grow into confident, capable individuals. So whether it’s art, sports, science, or something else entirely, take the time to cheer them on—you won’t regret it.

Want more tips on supporting your kids’ growth and happiness? Check out our post on 10 Tips for Strengthening Family Bonds and subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting inspiration.

Family
Family Bonding

The Benefits of Family Game Night

by Denise Wright

In today’s busy world, finding quality time for family can feel like an uphill battle. Between work, school, and extracurricular activities, it’s easy to let the days slip by without truly connecting. That’s where family game night comes in. It’s more than just rolling dice or shuffling cards—it’s about creating memories, building relationships, and even sneaking in some life lessons along the way. So grab your favorite board game (or video game if you’re a nerd like us) and settle in as we explore why family game night is a tradition worth starting.

Strengthening Family Bonds Through Play

One of the greatest benefits of game night is how it brings everyone together. In our house, the laughter, groans over losing, and cheers of victory are some of the sweetest sounds. For just a few hours, distractions like work emails, school projects, and even screens take a backseat to genuine connection.

Playing games as a family helps bridge the age gap between parents and kids. Whether it’s toddlers stacking blocks in a simple game or teenagers strategizing their way through a game of Catan, the shared experience strengthens relationships. Even when the competitive spirit kicks in, the time spent together outweighs the outcome of the game.

Life Lessons Wrapped in Fun

What’s great about game night is that it’s like a secret classroom. Without even realizing it, kids are learning crucial life skills while they’re busy having fun.

Communication and Teamwork

Games that require teamwork teach kids how to communicate effectively, listen to others, and solve problems collaboratively. These skills are essential not just at home but also in school and later in life.

Emotional Resilience

Let’s be honest—nobody likes losing. But family game night provides a safe space to experience losing gracefully. Learning to cope with setbacks and cheering for someone else’s success are invaluable lessons wrapped in the guise of play.

This new-age notion of “everyone is a winner” might sound nice in theory, but in practice, it does little to prepare our kids for the realities of life. The truth is, that losing is a part of life, and shielding children from it only does them a disservice. When kids are taught that failure isn’t an option, they miss out on crucial opportunities to develop resilience, perseverance, and problem-solving skills.

Family game night is a perfect opportunity to show that losing isn’t the end of the world. It’s a chance to teach our kids that it’s okay to try, fail, and try again. Whether it’s a missed roll in Yahtzee or landing on Boardwalk in Monopoly with someone else’s hotel on it, these moments are valuable lessons in grit and grace.

When we model good sportsmanship and encourage our kids to do the same, we’re teaching them to celebrate the victories of others without diminishing their own efforts. That’s not just a game-night lesson—it’s a life lesson. Life doesn’t always hand out trophies for participation, but it does reward those who keep going, even when the odds are stacked against them. So, no, not everyone needs to “win” every time. Instead, we can focus on helping our kids win in the ways that matter most: through growth, character, and the joy of simply playing the game.

Strategic Thinking and Patience

Games like chess or Monopoly encourage kids to think several steps ahead while waiting their turn fosters patience. These moments of learning often happen naturally and make a lasting impact.

Creating Priceless Memories

In a world where schedules dominate, game night stands out as a time when we can just be together. As a mom, I treasure the moments when everyone’s laughter fills the room or when one of the kids pulls a surprising move that has everyone in stitches.

I remember one night when Addison convinced everyone to play charades. She acted out her favorite character in such a hilariously over-the-top way that we couldn’t stop laughing. Even Ethan, who tends to be more reserved, joined in and had us cracking up with his version of a zombie. Moments like that remind me why family time is so precious.

Tips for a Successful Family Game Night

Game night doesn’t have to be complicated to be successful. Here are some tips we’ve picked up over the years:

Pick the Right Games

Choose games that suit the ages and interests of your family members. For younger kids, simple games like Trouble or Candy Land work well. For older kids and adults, games like Scrabble, Ticket to Ride, or Exploding Kittens can be a hit.

Keep It Lighthearted

The goal is to have fun, not spark arguments. Encourage good sportsmanship and take breaks if things get too competitive.

Make It a Tradition

Choose a day of the week or month that works for everyone and stick to it. Having a regular game night gives everyone something to look forward to.

Snacks and Atmosphere

Turn game night into an event with fun snacks and a cozy atmosphere. Whether it’s popcorn, cookies, or a simple fruit platter, having treats on hand makes the evening even more enjoyable.

For us game night has also turned into pizza night and a movie night! A whole evening for just being together and having fun.

Expanding Beyond the Living Room

Game night doesn’t always have to involve traditional board or card games. Here are a few creative alternatives to keep things fresh:

  • Outdoor Games: When the weather’s nice, bring the fun outside with cornhole, ladder ball, or a scavenger hunt.
  • DIY Games: Let the kids get creative by making their own games. Not only does this keep them engaged, but it also sparks their imagination.
  • Video Game Night: Yes, even video games can be a bonding experience. Choose multiplayer games that require teamwork and include everyone in the fun.

Building a Family Tradition That Lasts

Family game night is more than a one-time event; it’s an opportunity to establish a meaningful tradition. As your kids grow up, these moments become the memories they’ll cherish—and possibly recreate with their own families one day.

Even on weeks when it feels like there’s no time, making the effort to sit down for a game can be the reset button your family needs. Whether it’s a quick card game before bedtime or a long Monopoly marathon on a Sunday afternoon, the benefits go far beyond the game itself.

Ready to Start Your Own Family Game Night?

If you’re looking for more ways to connect as a family, check out our other posts on creating meaningful family traditions and strengthening family bonds. Remember, it’s not about winning or losing—it’s about the time spent together and the memories made.

So, what are you waiting for? Dust off those board games, gather the family, and let the fun begin!