Bloom With Bridget

WELCOME BACK!!! Bloom has been quiet for the last few months and I am so excited to share this episode with you!  I have missed this.  I have missed YOU! So, it's good to be back.  I am here to share with you where my head and my heart have been over the past few years and walk you through my journey in real-time.  I've had some big changes that I've been navigating.  I've had some hard questions to ask myself.  I've had some deep work to do,ut that is what BLOOM is all about.  It's the growth, it's the falling apart so something new can begin.   Let's dive in! For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. *NEW!!! Sign up for weekly growth texts from Bloom at 833-761-1714.Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

In this week's episode, I'm downloading my take on the recent Barbie movie.  Whether you've seen it or not, there's a take away for all of us.  I won't spoil my review, but I will ask you if you're living a life of pretend?  Are you really experiencing and living this life or are you going through the motions?  Regardless of where you stand on the movie, there is a lesson to be learned. Tune in to hear more!For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. *NEW!!! Sign up for weekly growth texts from Bloom at 833-761-1714.Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

If He calls you, He will equip you.  And when He calls you out, you have to be ready to step out in faith, like today's guest.  On this episode, I'm joined by Angel Welsh, a women of faith and fire.  If you know her, you know she is on a mission!  A mission to leave lives better and serve her community.  She's endured loss and hardship and yet still rises.  It's that spirit and her faith that has led her to where she is today.  Every step mattered.  Today, Angel is the Founder and Director of My Sister's Keeper, a women and children's shelter in Owensboro, KY.  You won't want to miss this episode! It will expand your heart and increase your faith.  To learn more about Angel's mission, My Sister's Keeper and how you can get involved, visit My Sister's Keeper online.Follow My Sister's Keeper on social: Instagram @mysisterskeeper270Facebook @mysisterskeeper270For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. *NEW!!! Sign up for weekly growth texts from Bloom at 833-761-1714.Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

Listen up, because you are going to love this week's guest on Bloom!  Chrysty Lockhart is a wife, bonus and bio mama, teacher, host of the Start Scared Podcast and someone who used to be bound by what she thought she was supposed to say, do or be. SO much so that she has lost herself in the chaos of everyday Mom life and is trying to discover who she is in real time! Chrysty is passionate about empowering and motivating other Mamas to cut through the BS stories they tell themselves and find clarity to start putting themselves first, because who they are outside of being a Mama still matters!  Chrysty is on a journey towards becoming more confident and free by ditching the negative self talk and learning to love all of herself.  Tune in to hear her share how she's embracing what real beauty looks like.  Be sure to give Chrysty a follow and see all of the amazing things she's doing! @chrystylockhart@startscaredpodcast@tiderunnerretreatFor more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. *NEW!!! Sign up for weekly growth texts from Bloom at 833-761-1714.Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

We can miss who we were created to be, because we are attached to what we've decided to be.   And in that process, we become those titles and labels we've given ourselves and can loose our identity. We get caught up in what we are doing rather than dedicating our effort into who we were called to be.  Today, I share some of the common labels of success that we oftentimes hide behind called success mountains.   The Five Success Mountains: The Marriage MountainThe Motherhood MountainThe Money Mountain The Mending Mountain The Make A Difference Mountain While none of these are bad things, they often keep us in the comfort zone of what we know.  We forget to focus on who we are not what we do, we stay small.  You're already amazing.  These things that you do are just a bonus.  They don't define you, they just add to who you already are.  You are more than that.  And it's time to fully step into who you were created to be! For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. *NEW!!! Sign up for weekly growth texts from Bloom at 833-761-1714.Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

Are you someone who is looking for someone to link arms with?  If so, you are going to love today's guest!  Join me along with Courtney Evans, for a conversation about bringing others in.  Courtney is a wife, mama, photographer and the founder of Cultivate BG, a networking community for entrepreneurs in the Bowling Green, KY and surrounding area.  She's created an amazing community that she wants to share with YOU! In today's conversation, she shares how necessary cultivating connection is necessary for growth and invites you to be a part of it!  Pop in those earbuds and push play on Let's Cultivate, with Courtney Evans now available on your favorite podcast platform.  For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. *NEW!!! Sign up for weekly growth texts from Bloom at 833-761-1714.Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

What's your reaction when someone tells you, “you've changed?” For me, I used to feel disappointment and hurt when I would hear those words.  I thought that I had let them down.  I felt like I was not being true to the version of me they knew.  What if instead of feeling shame or hurt when someone told you that you've changed, you felt pride and gratitude in its place?  And you actually held space and honored this version of yourself and how far you've come?  Change can be a good thing.  Embrace it.  For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. *NEW!!! Sign up for weekly growth texts from Bloom at 833-761-1714.Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

We're going on a bear hunt, I'm not afraid!  How many of you remember imagining going on a bear hunt as a child?  I do!  I would pretend all the time with my mom and sister and other kids that I would babysit that we were walking into the deep dark woods in search of a bear.  But, at each turn, we would encounter an obstacle.  Maybe it was a log on the path, a body of water, that had to be crossed,  a dead end path that lead nowhere and we had to find a new way - but as the saying goes...You can't go over it, can't go around it, you had to go through it.  And such is life, right?!  We may feel like we are in the middle of a bear hunt, figuratively speaking (hopefully not literally, but if so - cool!).  Oftentimes, our response is to just go around the obstacle or go over it or under it - but what we need to do is go THROUGH it.  We must face whatever it is and know that by going through that challenge, we will realize that we can endure hard things.  We can endure scary things.  We can overcome whatever it feels like is holding us back.  What are you avoiding? Maybe it's time, you suit up and get ready to go on this bear hunt with me.  Let's face whatever it is that's tough for you right now and go through it together.  And P.S., don't forget your bear spray! To check out the episode referenced in this one about Phrases I've Stopped Saying, follow the link! For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. *NEW!!! Sign up for weekly growth texts from Bloom at 833-761-1714.Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

Will today be "Day One," or "One Day?"  Will you keep telling yourself that you'll get around to it one day or are you ready to commit and say, today is the day I start?This is a quick episode where I share how recently starting the 75 Hard program prompted me to ask myself - am I putting off things I want for my life that I can do right now?  Am I telling myself that I'm not ready, not qualified, not knowledgeable enough?  Yes.  And maybe you are too.  If so, get ready to push play and take action! To learn more about the 75 Hard Program by Andy Frisella you can find out more at AndyFrisella.com.A great book referenced in this episode is, The Power Of One More, by Ed Mylett.For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. *NEW!!! Sign up for weekly growth texts from Bloom at 833-761-1714.Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

When someone asks, “tell me a little bit about yourself,” do you speak to WHAT you are or WHO you are? We can get hung up on the titles and the many hats  we wear that we forget to really share who we are and what makes us unique.  In this episode, I'll dive into some creative ways to think about how you share more about who you are with others.  Enjoy! For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. *NEW!!! Sign up for weekly growth texts from Bloom at 833-761-1714.Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

You are your ancestors' wildest dreams.  All of those who came before you, paved the way to bring you to this very moment.  You are living the dreams and passions that someone who came before you only dreamed about.  Join me on this joint episode with Cristal Jacobo, an embodiment coach, a speaker and community builder as we chat about how we tap into the past to propel us into the future.  You are made for more. Because of you, lives will be changed.  To discover more about Cristal, follow her on Instagram @cristalijacobo and @she.ismadeformore or visit her website cristaljacobo.comFor more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. *NEW!!! Sign up for weekly growth texts from Bloom at 833-761-1714.Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

There are 86,400 seconds, 1,440 minutes and 24 hours in one day.  How you choose to spend them is up  to you.  I'm reflecting in this episode after losing a loved one and there are a lot of things in our lives that can be replaced in our lives; but there are some things that can't.  Loosing someone is one of them.  If nothing else, this episode is a reminder to tell the ones you love they matter, call them, visit them but make sure they know you care.  Because time is the only currency you spend once in this lifetime.  Make it count.  For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. *NEW!!! Sign up for weekly growth texts from Bloom at 833-761-1714.Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

Do you remember the first time you learned how to ride a bike?  Or really trying anything for the first time?  My daughter just learned to ride a bike for the first time this weekend and it reminded me of all of those times I was so close teeter tottering between my fear and the feeling of accomplishment on the other side of it.  How long will you delay that feeling of doing what you thought couldn't be done?  How long do you postpone what you're capable of staying stuck in all the reasons why it won't work out?  It's time to get BIG on your life!  Stop playing it safe and small.  Stop living out of your fears and live out your dreams! Push past those fears and take action.  I can't wait to hear what BIG things you're going to do in your life, because that inspires me to take action to and live out those dreams and opportunities that have been put in my life.  To go back and listen to the "Get Big" episode I mention on this week's podcast, you can go back and listen.  For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. *NEW!!! Sign up for weekly growth texts from Bloom at 833-761-1714.Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

Instead of focusing on what we want to do in life, we should be focusing on how we want to feel.  Our lives can change in an instant and it's not going to be our title, our status, or our accomplishments that matter.  They say that in order to be the person you want to become you have to visualize that you are that person.  But in order for me to be her, I needed to go back and find her.  To find the old version of Bridget that had that spark, those dreams, those unique gifts and things about myself before anyone else told me who I was.  Maybe you need to do that too.  I've been working through some journaling exercises lately and writing down the following and breaking into three different columns so that I can dust off the real me.  What is not bringing you happiness right now?How can you incorporate happiness into your current situation?What DOES make you happy?Once you've identified those things, work to filter more happiness over into the things that aren't making you happy.  If you're going through life thinking that you don't deserve happiness, you'll never feel like you're worthy of receiving it.  And trust me, you deserve happiness! For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. *NEW!!! Sign up for weekly growth texts from Bloom at 833-761-1714.Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

In this episode, we are CELEBRATING!!!  This marks the 100th episode of Bloom With Bridget and as I'm pushing play on this milestone, I want to ask you what are you celebrating in this season of life that you're in and I invite you to join me. Life is meant to be celebrated.  Why do we stop celebrating?  Why do we stop celebrating other people?  And why do we stop celebrating ourselves?  Don't get so caught up in all the things and the work you're doing to get "there," that you forget to celebrate "here." It's so easy to clap for others, but are you clapping for yourself?  Are you celebrating all of those steps, that effort, those pivots?  Don't discount those special moments, because they all count.  So stop what you're doing right now to celebrate all the things big and small.  You're here and that matters.  Cheering for you always!    In this episode, I mention a book called How Are You Really, by Jenna Kutcher.  It's the question we all need to be asking ourselves and others.  I also mention a practice my family started called Give Me Five to share our daily gratitude around the dinner table.  You can go back and listen to that episode here, Seeds of Happiness. For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. *NEW!!! Sign up for weekly growth texts from Bloom at 833-761-1714.Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

In this episode, I'm going to let you in on a few sayings and phrases that I am challenging and looking at differently and some I'm removing from my conversations completely.  As we grow and evolve, so do our thought patterns and beliefs, but if we're not building new patterns and thoughts in their place, then we're going to get the same results.  So here's what I'm leaving behind as I step into this growth focused version of myself:That's just the way that it is..That's just the way THEY are...If I can just get through this...I'll do that when...These word box you in.  They limit you and the ability for others to evolve as well.  It prohibits you from creating change and new possibilities. Don't settle for the way that it is.  Don't believe that people can't change.  Stop getting through your life waiting for things to get better and don't wait for things to slow down before you take that next step.  Life is meant to be lived.  It's meant to be experienced.  Ask better questions to get better answers.  Don't settle for the same To develop that figureoutable mindset check out this book Everything Is Figureoutable, by Marie Forleo.  I promise you won't be disappointed!  It's one of my all-time favorite books.  Enjoy! For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. *NEW!!! Sign up for weekly growth texts from Bloom at 833-761-1714.Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

Have you heard of the term quiet quitting?  It's become a practice that is sweeping across corporate America and quite possibly our very own personal lives?  Quiet quitting is performing the minimum amount of work possible in your job.  It's showing up physically, but not with any effort or desire to take pride in what you're doing.  We've all probably experienced an example of this, but there's also a good chance that we may even find ourselves in this practice...doing the minimum.  We've become complacent and comfortable with not putting in a lot of effort.  And when we don't show up in our day, we aren't showing up in our life.  We are quitting on the dreams and desires to build a beautiful life and settling for mediocre.  If this is you or someone you know, this episode is for you.  I hope it lights a fire under you and reminds you that you can't quit.  People are counting on you.  You are counting on you.  We need you to show up and show out.  Don't quit on your dreams.  Don't quit on your life.  Don't quit on YOU! Some of the books mentioned on this episode speaking to the 1% er's in life were written by David Nurse and can be found by following these links: Pivot & Go + Breakthrough For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. *NEW!!! Sign up for weekly growth texts from Bloom at 833-761-1714.Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

We all know what it's like to give the BEST gift and wait in anticipation for the recipient to open it, right?!  And, we know what it's like when that gift isn't received.  This episode is a reminder to you to use your gifts and to appreciate the gifts you've been given.  I saw a message that said: "Your gifts are God's gift to you.  What you do with them is your gift to Him." Let that sink in.  Don't waste your gifts.  Don't set them aside thinking they're insignificant or pointless.  They matter.  They are meant to be shared with those around you.  They are meant to honor Him in the things we do.  Give someone your gift today.   It will bless them and you.   For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

This is a real, raw episode about my experience of giving up social media during Lent.  This episode is really about cultivating your life so that it truly benefits you and the direction you want to go.  This is based off of my experience - it may not be your experience, but hopefully there are some things you can take from today and use as a guide to design better habits and practices that water the right seeds in your garden.  I realized that I was so dependent on my phone and careless with my time when it came to allowing myself to be consumed with social media.  After my sabbatical, I came back with a fresh perspective and decided to curate a feed that actually worked for me, not against me.  In order to do so, I had to: mute, moderate or move on from certain pages.  In doing so, I've cultivated a social feed where I can feel peace and joy not overwhelm and comparison.  If this sounds like something you need in your life right now, tune in and share your feedback with me! For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

This episode was inspired by my daughter who painted these words: Don't let others break you down when you're shining, even if you're the odd one stay like that because it makes you stand out and SHINE!She's been down with two bum legs and has been painting canvases, lots of them.  As I was cleaning up one day, I noticed one that caught my eye that had my word of the year on it - SHINE and after she explained to me what it meant, I knew she needed to be the one to come on Bloom and share it with you.  I hope you enjoy! For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

It is the first day of SPRING!!!  But maybe you feel like you're still stuck in a different season?!  I do.  I am in a slow season.  A season where I've had to step back and reevaluate my priorities and make sure I'm setting myself up for success in order to be ready for the next season ahead.  Join me on today's episode as I talk through how I'm leaning into this slow season and try to understand what it's trying to teach me.  For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

Do you ever ask for something and miss the opportunity it's wrapped in?  I do.  When I ask for better relationships, more patience with my kids, a deeper faith, I often miss the potential ways to build that.  I want immediacy.  I don't want to wait for it, I want it now, because there are too many other things I need to be doing right?! If we want to grow, if we want to more - we have to put in the work.  We have to stop seeing our challenges as obstacles and see them as opportunities to grow.  There is no magic wand.  The distance between where we are now and where we want to go is called effort.  So if you're asking for a change, for more, stop waiting for it to magically happen and look for those opportunities to grow.  For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

Join me this week as I chat with Krista Clark.  Krista is a wife, mom, certified nutritionist, fitness instructor and spray tan artist.  With all the things she manages, being in control is often necessary.  Lately, she's finding ways to let go and allow her life to play out with open hands and no blueprint.  In doing so, she's making time for herself and those she loves while building a community of people around her who support her.  Tune into this week's episode where she shares how this practice is shaping her life in a brand new way.Check out the tools she shares in this episode, to help her set the tone for her day that can be found here: Project YOU, by Redbird Press The Bloom Deck, by Jessica Boarman Follow Krista's journey on these platforms:KC Radiant Health on Instagram Kpclark30 on Instagram Krista Clark on FacebookFor more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

A line from the Declaration of Independence says that as American's we are all given access to..."Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness."The pursuit of happiness is a trap.  It's something we've all been told  and will spend our lives chasing.  The pursuit of it becomes unattainable, elusive, far fetched.  It becomes something of the future that robs us of enjoying happiness right here in the now.  Join me this week as I share a recap of my top takeaways from the book, The Gap And The Gain, by Ben Hardy and Dan Sullivan.  I'll cover the difference between a gap mindset and a gain mindset as outlined in their book.  If it's not already on your TBR list, it will be after you listen! For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

"Old flowers bring new seeds."  This was Haley Kelly's response to her healing journey.  For someone who had dealt with tremendous loss and pain, Haley shares with me how she chose to find peace and purpose in her pain.  It wasn't always pretty.  It wasn't always easy.  But it was always worth it.  Haley is a woman on a mission to spread the love of Jesus and she believes that when God calls you to something - He's is going to see you through it.  You can't but help to hear Haley's peace through her words as you listen to her story.  Haley is also an author of a four-week devotional journal, Finding the Normal in the Abnormal and leader of the annual Bruised Warrior Women's retreat in Bowling Green, KY. She's following that fire inside of her and challenges you to do the same.  To hear more of Haley's story, follow along on Instagram at Haley Kelly.For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

We've all had those moments when we see something go from a vision to reality.  It's pretty incredible isn't it?  What was once utilized as a switchboard center for Southern Bell phone company back in the early 20's, then nearly condemned is now a thriving event venue and space for people to come together in union on Union Street in Madisonville, KY.   This week's guest Gloria's Chilcut has taken her vision for U Creative Space and imagined a place where YOU can come to spark your own creativity.  Join me as I sit down with my one of my dearest friends as she shares how she brought her idea to life to create a space that she had the vision to share where people could come together in union.To keep up with Gloria and U Creative Space, check out: ucreativespace.comU Creative Space on InstagramFor more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

So I recently did a glam photo session which was way out of my comfort zone.  I'm a stand in the back type of girl when it comes to pictures so to be front and center was not my jam. Until I met Melanie.  Melanie Hodskins started a photography business 10 years and has traditionally stuck to maternity and newborn photos, but she decided to stretch herself outside of her comfort zone and try something different without using props to make women feel beautiful in their own skin.Most often as women, we don't feel comfortable without a baby on our hip, a purse on our shoulder, or our phones in our hand...we cling to things that help cover us up. Who are we detached from all of these things?  Without all of these props?  But we deserve to see our beauty and document those moments of life and all it's in betweens.   Get ready to push play on this episode to feel inspired and beautiful! To check out Melanie's work or to book your next session, visit:   melaniehodskinsphotography.commelaniehodskins on Instagram melaniehodskinsphoto on Facebook For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

In today's episode, I interview Caroline Clark who shares her word of the year and the depth behind it.  When she shared her word with me, I was taken aback and curious as to why she chose this word, because let's be honest - it's DEEP!!! She chose discomfort. Discomfort.  (n). slight pain. mental or physical uneasiness.  Discomfort isn't typically a word that most would seek out to have as a constant reminder about the type of person you want to show up as throughout the year.  But Caroline did. So often, we seek comfort.  We seek easy.  We don't want to put in the work to see the results.  We're afraid to face the unbearable.  Join us as she talks through how she plans to use discomfort to propel her growth and being okay with being uncomfortable.  If you connected with this conversation, send it to someone else who needs to hear it or reach out to Caroline on social and tell her thank you.  I appreciate you being here!BridgetFor more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

It's a new year and that means it's time for a new word of the year!!!  This has become one of my favorite exercises because it has shaped me in so many ways over the past few years. If you're not familiar with it, I get it - it can seem a little woo woo.  But I'm here to tell you, it's powerful.  And if you're open to it - it can really transform your year and quite possibly your life!The first time I chose a word of the year in 2021, my word was BLOOM and you all know how that turned out!  It became a part of my life in so many ways.  It molded and shaped me and continues to do so even today.  I mean, this very podcast and the Bloom Box are all thanks to that one tiny little word! Last year, my word was DELIGHT.  And delight I did.  But I don't think I would have been able to enjoy and fully soak up all delight had to offer had I not experienced bloom.  My words that I have chosen have set the tone.  They've been the foundation for the following year and have prepared me for the next season.  Had I not experienced them in the order in which I did, I don't think it would have been as meaningful.  And I feel the same about my word for this year.  My word of the year for 2023 is SHINE!  I want to shine so that others can see the light of Christ in me.  It's not for my personal attention, it's to point to Him.  I believe that I have been given this gift, this platform this voice to do something good.  So here I am.  You might need to pull out some sunglasses, it's about to get bright in here!! I'm giving you a throwback song that will be my anthem this year as I stay rooted in my word, Shine, by Collective Soul There's a verse in the song that says, teach me how to speak, teach me how to share.  That's what Bloom is about.  That is why I'm here.  To teach and share.  Through this podcast and through the Bloom Box, I want to build something bigger than myself.  I want to plant seeds that will someday water a garden so beautiful with wildflowers galore! And I'm so grateful you're here on this journey with me.  If you're unsure where to start, a good resource to guide you through the word of the year process is, One Word That Will Change Your Life. If you're interested in snagging a word of the year bracelet, here a few gals that can hook you up! Jackie Blue Handmade Hampton & Co. Designs Happy New Year my friends! XO, BridgetFor more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

When you're looking at the end of 2023, what does your life look like?  As you get ready to set your goals and intentions for the upcoming year, I want you to set some different goals.  Instead of thinking about what you want to accomplish, I want you to think about who you want to become.  Don't rush through your dreams as a checklist.  As you're working toward building yourself, let your dreams be the bricks that build the person you want to become.  As you're building out this next year, ask yourself these questions and reflect: Where did you see growth and where did you not?  What surprises happened along the way?What did you accomplish?  Give gratitude for all that you've been able to do and where you are in the growth process.  What lights you up? What do you gravitate towards?  If time, money or access to resources was unlimited and nothing could hold you back- what would your life look like?Are your goals for you?  Or, are you making them mirror someone else's? Your goals and dreams won't look like anyone else's.  What do YOU want?Who's surrounding you?  Think about the people in your life.  Are those individuals conducive or counter to your growth? Are they building you up or are they holding you back?  Those people beside us and the environment that you are a part of impact who you become or who you don't become.  In addition to whose beside you, who is in front of you?  Who can be a mentor to you that can help guide you in the direction that you're going? Think about your time.  Your growth is going to cost you.  You have to be disciplined if you want to make progress.  Your time has to be intentional, it can't be wasted if you want to build.  2023 is going to be a great year.  I feel it for you.  Now, let's get started! XO, BridgetFor more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. Be sure to leave a review about this podcast or share it with someone who you think would love it! To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by following checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

We are in the season of Advent.  A season of waiting.  And as I'm reflecting on the anticipation of the birth of Jesus, I'm also reflecting on what I'm waiting on and how I respond during those seasons.  All of us are waiting on something and we all experience seasons of waiting.  And [insert the Jeopardy theme here] but it can feel like FOREVER when you're waiting.  It can feel anxious, it can feel confusing, it can feel scary and we can feel empty.  Waiting is hard.  And I think it's even harder today, because  we have been conditioned to want it now.  We want it yesterday.   So waiting can feel like an eternity.  When viewed this way, we often miss the lesson during these periods of waiting.  It's in those moments that we are being strengthened.  That our roots are being deepened and built.  We can't rush the process, but we try everything in our power to do so.  Waiting seasons teach us something.  They are preparing you for the next.  So don't rush them, seek out what you can gain from these waiting periods rather than feeling weighed down by them. In addition to learning from them, know that instead of waiting "for," we can wait "with."  We don't have to wait and it be empty, we can lean on others, we can lean on our faith and not go at it alone.  And that feels a lot better than doing it by yourself.  Whatever you're waiting on, know that you're not alone.  Know that there is a lesson to be learned.  Slow down and look for it.  And in that, you just might find your answer.  As promised, here is my recipe for streak free floors! Go Clean Co. Floor Cleaning Solution1 gallon of hot water1/3 cup of bleach 1/4 tsp of powdered tide You're welcome! For more ways to bloom in between episodes, follow along at @bloomwithbridget on instagram or head on over to www.bloomwithbridget.com to keep growing with me. To explore the Bloom Box, you can find both boxes by following checking out the Bloom Box on the website.

As we enter into this holiday season, we need to remember that we get to decide what that looks like.  It doesn't have to be stressful or fast, it can be joyful and enjoyable.   This week, I share some practical ways to keep you in the moment this holiday season so you can make the most of it to take you from overwhelmed to overjoyed.  I hope you enjoy! Be sure to follow @bloomwithbridget on Instagram for more!www.bloomwithbridget.com

The good ones are always dirty.  That's how you know they've been used.  I said this to a friend who was sharing a favorite recipe with me for my Thanksgiving contribution dish and not only is it true about recipes, it's true about our life.  But so often, we shy away from the dirty.  We hide our messy.  We apologize for it.  But what if instead of feeling embarrassed about it, we embraced it?   In this episode, I'm going to encourage you to look for ways to not be afraid of the mess as we are about to head into this Christmas Season.  It looks different to think about doing something and actually doing it.  Don't be worried about rolling up your sleeves and getting dirty for the benefit of someone else.  Take action to seek out opportunities to serve.  For all of you orange juice cake fans, here's the recipe: Orange Juice Cake1 box yellow cake mix1 large box vanilla pudding4 eggs1 cup of orange juice1/2 cup of oilBeat ingredients together and baked in a greased bundt pan at 350 degrees for 30-45 min.  Remove from oven and poke holes throughout cake with a fork for icing to seep in. Icing1 stick of butter1 cup of sugar1/4 cup of orange juiceBoil 2-3 minutes and pour over cake. and let sit and cool before serving.  Enjoy!  

Being grateful and thankful isn't something we feel all the time.  Sometimes, we need to be reminded that we are making a difference.  We need to be reminded that what we do matters.  That it's important to continue to show up, even when it feels like no one is watching.  That we are loved even when we feel lonely.  And that this world is brighter, because we're in it.  What are you collecting in life that reminds you of your blessings?  When I need to be reminded. I go to my thankful drawer.  It's full of notes, letters, drawings and words of encouragement that remind me that this work is important.  Tune in to hear more.  Share your favorite gratitude practices with me @bloomwithbridget on Instagram and don't forget about the November Gratitude Challenge on social too!  I'm so grateful you're here!Bridget 

Fall is a great reminder to let go.  As the leaves fall this time of year, take time to think about some of those things you can shed and say "no" to in order to make room for more of the things that bring you joy and fill you up.  This can be people, places or things.  In this episode, I'm going through my list of "NO"vember and also sharing a few of the things I'm saying yes to.  Take time this week to jot down your thoughts as we go into the last two months of the year.  Think about what a difference this could make and help to set you up for success going into the new year.  I hope you enjoy! ~ Bridget If you haven't already, head on over to bloomwithbridget on Instagram to check out the gratitude challenge this month.  I have also added a submission form on my website podcast page for you to submit feedback and share content ideas of what you want to hear more about as well as speakers you think would be great guests on the show.  So please share your thoughts! 

It's Halloween and in this week's episode, it's all about the different masks we wear.  The ones that mask our feelings, our personality and our own self image.  When we pretend to be something that we're not, we cover up our best parts.  Only you can be the main character of your life.  No one else can dress the part but you. It's time to remove those masks that hide the light that shines within us.Don't forget to head on over to bloomwithbridget on Instagram to enter the Bloom Box giveaway! Drawing ends 11/1, good luck! I mentioned The Growth Deck by my good friend Jessica Boarman, you can snag yours here on her site jessicaboarman.com/shopOr, to snag your very own, you may do so at bloomwithbridget.com 

How much time, energy and effort do we put into running someone else's race rather than our own?  For me, it's more than I'd like to admit.    We think we should be going at a faster pace or the same distance that someone else is going because that's what they're doing.  That's not always true.  We are called to run the race marked for us.  Our race.  Not anyone else's.  For me, I don't always do this because I'm trying to make up for what I'm lacking.  But what if it's in those weaknesses of our own, that those are really opportunities to grow closer and depend on God?  You know, the one who actually mapped out our course and knows exactly the race, the pace we should be running?!Instead, think about shifting your mindset to focus straight ahead.  Not who's heels your chasing or who is running close behind you, but ahead to your race.  No one else's.  This life isn't a competitive sport.  It's a solo sport and there's only your race to run.  bloomwithbridget.combloomwithbridget on InstagramAtlas of the Heart, Brene Brown referenced in this episode.  

Authentic: Of undisputed origin; genuine.  adjective.Being authentic means being true to who you are.  Not wavering your truths, core beliefs or mindset.  Not allowing the influence of others, your environment or society to shape you into something you're not.  In this episode, I talk through the thought behind trying to chase a better version of ourselves and how this competes with authenticity.  How it can become this elusive thought of being never enough and diminishes where we are at the present moment.  When we allow ourselves to be authentic, we become free.  Free from striving.  Free from performing.  Free from pleasing and perfecting.  We allow ourselves to just be who we were designed to be.    In pursuit of trying to better myself, sometimes I forget that I'm already good.  That where I'm at, is where I'm supposed to be so that I can gather the tools necessary to equip me for the upcoming season.  We forget to take in those gorgeous views at the top of that mountain and give gratitude for the hard work and effort that got us there before we walk down and prepare for the next summit.  Stop trying to chase a version of “best.”   Trust the process and know that what God has in store for you is above what we or anyone else says it is.  So, the pressure is off.  You don't have to chase the next version of yourself, you can enjoy freedom right where you are and experience the joy of being authentic.  www.bloomwithbridget.com

Knowledge is power.  But without action, it's wasted.  If we just absorb what we hear and do nothing with it, what good is it doing us or those around us if we're not applying it and sharing it? This week's episode is to encourage you to be someone who takes that knowledge to the next level.  You may not be the smartest person in the room, but by diving in, figuring things out and gaining experience, you are becoming an expert.  You are an investment that is worth being cultivated, stretched and grown.  Take time to apply what you are learning.  Put it to use and make it work for you.  Be a doer.  Make knowledge work for you.  www.bloomwithbridget.com

Until we understand what we're trading our life for, we don't understand what we're trading our time for.  What are you trading your time for?Time is valuable, but are you placing value and priority on the time you have making the most of it?  If not, let's dive into this episode to and start making your time work with you, not against you.  How we spend our days is how we spend our life.  Don't waste your time.  Make each day count, make each moment count.  For more growth in between epsisodes, head over to bloomwithbridget on Instagram or bloomwithbridget.comXO, Bridget

What if.  Two words that can bring two very opposite results.  What if it changes everything?  But what if it does?  Our thoughts are the water to the seeds that we're planting.  If we water them with doubt and fear, it will not take root and grow.  But if we water them with hope, faith and possibility - good things will grow.  What are you watering your thoughts with?   It's time to change the soundtrack that's on repeat in your mind and replace it with a new script.  We all have a choice to choose how we are going to view things.  Times of limitations are oftentimes the breeding ground for breakthroughs.  Your situation is what it is.  But it's what you do next that matters most.  How will you use your circumstance as an opportunity for more?  As a man thinketh, so he is.  Think what you want to become.  For more ways to bloom in between episodes, hop on over to bloomwithbridget on Instagram or my website bloomwithbridget.com.  The Bloom Box is LIVE!!!  Check it out and order yours today at bloomwithbridget.com/bloom-boxSee You Soon! XO, Bridget

This darn cold still has me grounded but I wanted to show up for you guys this week and share with you some of the lessons being grounded has taught me.  Your to-do list can wait.  It's not that important.Let others help.  Don't rob them of the ability to serve. Know your limits. Pay attention to those signs that you're doing too much.Give yourself some grace.  Every circumstance can teach us something.  Use this as advice when you're sick, overworked, over committed and over whelmed.  It can wait.  Taking care of yourself is what's most important.  Not only that, it's vital!Take Care, BridgetVisit my website or follow me on Instagram @bloomwithbridget

I am under the weather this week, so my husband and oldest are taking over the podcast! I hope you enjoy hearing them share stories and laughs about me and catch a glimpse at real life to know just how lucky I am to call them mine! XO,Bridgetwww.bloomwithbridget.combloomwithbridget on Instagram   

Today, I'm going to tell you a story about my very first bloom box.  It was a gift given to me last Christmas and it is one I will treasure forever.   It was validation and support for my dream and it was thoughtful and intentional in all the best ways.  This episode is about thinking bigger, dreaming bigger and letting go of what YOU think it can be and leaning into what HE can allow it to be.  We all have limitations, but when we let go of our expectations and allow God to work through us, it will be fruitful.  This episode is also about celebrating.  Celebrating the highs and celebrating the low's.  It's about experiencing the 1's in order to be grateful for the 10's.  I'm thankful for my 1's, 2's and 3's, because when that 10 comes - it's pretty darn special.  Bloom is a 10.  It hasn't always been easy, but it's always been worth it.  I hope you enjoy this episode! Be sure to follow along on Instagram at bloomwithbridget and on my website bloomwithbridget.com for all of the details about the first launch box!  I can't wait for you to get your hands on it! XO,Bridget

What would you do with an idea?  Would you hide it or would you grow it?  Well, I decided to grow my idea and on this episode, I FINALLY share with you what I've been working on! It's been a long time coming, but in the process, I've learned so much.  I've stretched muscles I didn't even know I had and figured it out along the way, but I've been able to use this experience to develop who I am becoming.  Visit my new website to access my podcast episodes, learn more about my idea and go deeper into my story.  I can't wait for you to listen to this one! XO, Bridget

Have you ever played the game Two Truths and a Lie?   It's hard to tell the truth from the lies sometimes.  Well this episode is about cutting through those lies that are keeping you small and telling them to get gone! It's going to motivate you to take action on your dreams because if they are in you, they are for you! I hope this episode ignites a fire within you to go after that thing you've had on your heart.  I hope you quit listening to the lies that you're not good enough, smart enough, capable or ready and know that YOU ARE QUALIFIED!  XO, Bridget@liveyourlifeinbloom

It's always you vs. you.  Your race at your pace.  Yet, it's so easy to compare and compete with everyone around us; to feel like we're not qualified or under equipped.  Like anything new, the growth happens in the process, by putting in the time learning and figuring things out.  Every new experience is an opportunity to go beyond where we are presently.  So how do we recognize that this journey we're on is not a sprint, but a marathon?  When we speed through the process and spend it measuring up to others, we rob ourselves of the joy of the journey and the pride that comes from all of our hard work.  As you listen, think about your journey and who you're becoming.  When you find yourself falling into the comparison trap, remember - this is your race at your pace.  Be grateful for the growth ahead and the growth you've seen behind you.  Each step is putting you one step closer to where you're meant to be.  Be so grateful for that! XO, BridgetTo bloom in between episodes, check out @liveyourlifeinbloom

Are you a yesser?  Someone who says yes to it all, overcommits and spreads themselves too thin? This is typically my style.  But I'm working through learning how to say no more to the things that don't align with who I want to become and where I want to be and those things that keep me from the people I love most.  Too often, the word "no" carries a negative connotation.  But "no" can be a beautiful thing.  It can bring peace, freedom and joy.  It's ok to say, no.  When we become so aligned with where we want to go in life, we must learn to use the word no so that we can make room for the right yeses when the come along.  When we overstuff our lives with the wrong things - it doesn't produce more results, it just produces more stuff.   And sometimes that "stuff" is heavy and weighs us down.  We've all heard the saying - "Show me how you spend your time and I'll show you your priorities."  Are you going all in on this one life you've got? Or, are you spinning on the hamster wheel of life going round and round?  It's time to say no to the wrong things and start prioritizing your yeses so you can make room for the right things. XO, Bridgethttps://www.instagram.com/liveyourlifeinbloom

Texting is the norm.  It's how we work, live and play.  But is it hindering communication in a way that's keeping us from having good conversations?  I think so.   The average person sends anywhere from 20-60 texts per day.  No wonder we're distracted all the time.   This weeks episode was inspired by a friend who called me out of the blue and it made me think about how little time I spend actually talking on the phone and how I have replaced that with texting.  So it's time to find other alternatives to keep communication fresh.  Mix it up!  Send a voice text, FaceTime or send a video recording of you singing Happy Birthday.  There are lots of options.  It's time to start making technology work for you, not the other way around! Here are some helpful tips on how to take charge of messages and notifications: Set A Focus Time Turn Off NotificationsDon't Reach For Your Phone When You Wake UpDon't Go To Bed With Your PhonePay Attention To What's In Front Of You Texting is good for certain things, but there are many other things so much better than a text.  This week, get creative with your communication skills.  You just might find out that you've missed the days of chatting on the phone.  For more ways to bloom in between episodes, hop on over to @liveyourlifeinbloom and share what spoke to you in this episode or other tips and trips you can share.  For a good laugh, check out this video 17 year olds dial a rotary phoneXO, Bridget

One of my favorite vacation bible school songs growing up was, "Deep and Wide."  And now you can all thank me for getting it stuck in your head! In this episode, I break down the steps I'm navigating coming off of isolation from a pandemic and how that has affected my relationships.  I am choosing to be intentional and eliminate small talk in order to fill the awkward silence.  I want deep.  I want meaningful. I want real.  And I bet you do too.  Walk with me through this episode while I share nuggets from a recent book that speaks to finding your people in a  time where distance demanded and connection was lost.  To find your copy of the book, Find Your People and the book club kit and all things related, go to Jennieallen.comFor more ways to bloom in between episodes, hop on over to Liveyourlifeinbloom on Instagram.  XO,Bridget

Welcome back to Bloom with Bridget!  In this week's episode, I wanted to let you all in on a real time experience and walk you through navigating a recent circumstance where things didn't go as planned for me and my family while on vacation.  From sick kiddos that forced us to extend our stay, to flat tires and ending up having the gas station experience of a lifetime, I walk you through how to shift negative energy to a posture of gratitude and find some joy along the way.Even in the storms, you can still spot the rainbow if you're looking for it.  Tune in and enjoy!  BridgetTo bloom in between episodes, hop on over to @liveyourlifeinbloom