Rambling Through Everyday Life Podcast

It's our season 5 finale!  Can y'all believe it's finally summer?!  We have updates on the farm (including swans, turkeys and a famous band member), Kaylee's graduation party and Fran's fabulous grad gift.  We also share our opinions on weighted vests, small town courthouses, and Grandma hobbies.  For our spiritual segment, we discuss our upcoming social media fast in July (join us!) and the books and podcasts we are loving right now.  We wrap it all up with a beautiful passage from Psalms 111.  We sure do love y'all and hope you have the very best summer!  Fran's fabulous melamine Walmart dishes Order a weighted vest here  Learn from our favorite menopause expert Dr. Mary Claire Haver and The Pause Life Clever Poppy embroidery kit  Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you!    Join our Facebook group   • Follow us on Instagram • Follow us on TikTok   

Are you reading scripture with Tara Leigh Cobble and the Bible Recap?  Be sure and watch King of Kings! Susie highly recommends Nuuly for your clothing needs! Susie loves these hair vitamins! Susie loves this high end shampoo for her grandson's curly hair! Here are some fabulous swimsuit links:  Check out Modily Check out Cupshe  Check out Summersalt Check out Albion So many fun things to see on Susie's daughter's IG! Callie's friends love these podcasts and we do too: Allie Beth Stuckley BigBoo Podcast Jennie Allen Follow all things Rambling on IG, Facebook, and yes, even TikTok sometimes.   

In this conversation, we are joined by one of our very favorite college friends, Sydney Whittaker.  Don't let her young age fool you!  You will quicly see why we love her so much and love learning from her!  Sydney shares her newfound love for the Greek language and how it has grown her faith.  We also discuss the importance of obedience and what the Lord is teaching her personally in this season. Be sure to subscribe to Sydney's new podcast "Made for More" where she and her best buddy Aryn Roberts share what the Lord is doing in their lives.  Listen to Sydney's new podcast "Made for More with Aryn Roberts and Sydney Whittaker" Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you!   Join our Facebook group • Follow us on Instagram & TikTok   

In this week's conversation, we are rambling about birthdays, graduations, and Angela's upcoming trip to Italy. We also discuss Fran's real ID experience, graduation gift ideas, our new favorite way to use ChatGPT, Bob's burgers, bathroom selfies, and of course, Jesus :) We hope this conversation brightens your day.  We sure do love y'all! Proverbs 16:24 “Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Experiencing God Day by Day Devotional  Wild at Heart: Discovering the Secret of a Man's Soul by John Eldredge Christy Nockels podcast: The Glorious in the Mundane We LOVE connecting with you in our Facebook group, Instagram & TikTok    If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application.

Have you ever felt underestimated?? Mary Marantz joins us to discuss the surprisingly simple shift to quit playing small, NAME the fear, and move forward anyway.  Mary helps us overcome perfectionism, procrastination, people-pleasing, imposter syndrome and overthinking (whew!).  Mary has advice for anyone who feels like they aren't enough, their dreams are too big, or they don't know where to begin. Mary is the real deal and we can't wait to share this conversation with you!  Take the quiz to find our your achiever type here  Learn more about Mary's new book Underestimated: The Surprisingly Simple Shift to Quit Playing Small, Name the Fear, and Move Forward Anyway  Connect with Mary on Instagram @marymarantz Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you!  Join our Facebook group or follow us on Instagram  &  TikTok   

In this week's rambling, we have some life updates for y'all (including Fran's new hair and new house!) plus our thoughts on Holy Week and Easter Sunday.  Fran has a great book recommendation and we wrap it all up with 1 Corinthians 13.  We love y'all and hope this conversation encourages you today!  Remember Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Listen to Sophie & Melanie on the Big Boo Cast Add flavor to your water bottle with Skittles powder  Lead Like Jesus: Lessons From the Greatest Leadership Role Model of All Time We LOVE connecting with you in our Facebook group, on Instagram & TikTok 

In this conversation, we are rambling about the weather, sports and Jesus.  We share how we were personally affected by last week's storms including the damage at Union University and an update on Baby Brownie.  We also talk about March Madness including the coaches and players we love and what we are learning from them.  We wrap it all up with encouragement straight from scripture.  We love y'all and love having these conversations with you each week!  Follow Ryan Hall on youtube for severe weather updates Do you have a bag packed in case of emergency?  What's in your bag? Duracell portable battery charger  Listen to the latest Union podcast with Jazzy's testimony here  Learn more about Dwell Differently for scripture memorization Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you!  Join our Facebook group • Follow us on Instagram &  TikTok   

In this week's conversation, we share what we are loving lately including the recent bible reading on Union University's campus.  We also talk about Leadership Union and a recent session we had with students on failure and how it can ultimately lead to success, plus the one surprising question we should ask our children (and ourselves!) each week.  We wrap it all up with some encouragement straight from scripture.  We love y'all and are so happy to have you here with us!   Proverbs 24:16 "For a righteous man falls seven times and rises again, but the wicked stumble in time of calamity." Failure is not final. It's a growth opportunity to rise again as we rely on the Lord and the power of his might.  Jeremiah 17:7 "But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him." Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you!  Join our Facebook group   • Follow us on Instagram •Follow us on TikTok   

In this conversation, we update y'all on the sad thing that happened to both of us on the exact same day.  We never know what life may bring, but we do know we are always better together, and and we are so grateful the Lord goes before us every step of the way!  We love y'all and love rambling with you each week.  Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We love connecting with you in our Facebook group, on Instagram and here and there on TikTok! Each episode is recorded on the campus of Union University.  Come for a campus visit. We would love to see you! Email Fran at fthomas @uu.edu if you have any questions. Schedule that visit here.

We have lots of fun rambling for y'all this week!  This is one of those conversations that will make you laugh and smile, plus Fran has a sweet update from her Union University GO Trip to Clarkston, Georgia. We also recap Gather 2025 and Angela shares her new favorite way to memorize scripture with Dwell Differently.  As Fran reminds us, "To be a true disciple of Christ in unhurried culture, it will cost you something."  Jesus is worth it all!   We sure do love y'all and hope this episode encourages each of you!  Learn more about Union University GO trips  Learn more about Gather 2025  Learn more about Dwell Differently  Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you in our Facebook group, on Instagram & TikTok   

Our beloved Grace Valentine is back with a brand new book "The Better Friend: 12 Truths to Shift from Shallow and One-Sided Connections to Vibrant Friendships." Grace helps us rethink the way we connect with others and shares her wise and relatable insight on belonging, comparison, gossip, and the scriptures that equip us to be a better friend. We talk about the different types of friends and why we need each of them. Grace reminds us we are not alone as we pursue friendships especially when God designed us for community. In her own beautiful words "...I am praying that as you read these words, you will find peace from Jesus, unreasonable love, confidence to not give up, and friendships that make you better.  Better is coming when you do life with the Giver of Life."  Go buy her book!!   It's a beautiful read for all of us, but we especially recommend it for your high school and college students.   Buy the book here  Connect with Grace online!     Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you in our Facebook group and on Instagram or follow us on TikTok   

In this episode, we ramble about new things (do you have milk standards?), new discoveries, and old reminders that are perfect for self-reflection as we begin Lent this Wednesday. We wrap it all up with a short, powerful prayer and beautiful reminders from Psalm 34:4-5: "I sought the Lord and he answered me; and delivered me from all my fears.  Those who look to him are radiant. Their faces are never covered in shame."  We sure do love y'all and hope you have a great week! Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you in our Facebook group & on Instagram & TikTok  

Well, this conversation was fun!  Angela just got back from her first trip to New Orleans, and we have lots of details.  We talk about the food, the culture, and our thoughts about it all.  In classic Rambling fashion, we also made it spiritual, and Fran wraps it all up with a mic drop moment you don't want to miss!  We sure do love y'all and love serving you through this podcast.  We hope y'all have a great week!  Proverbs 16:24 “Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you in our Facebook group, on Instagram & TikTok    If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application.

Thank you for joining in our rambling this week!  Remember Proverbs 16:24 “Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body."  We love y'all, and we are so grateful for you!  We LOVE connecting with you!  Join our Facebook group • Follow us on Instagram & TikTok    If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or emai Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application.

We are full of life updates this week! This conversation isn't super serious but will certainly entertain you and make you smile.  Let us know how y'all are doing.  We love hearing from you! Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you in our Facebook group & on Instagram & TikTok       

This conversation is straight out of Proverbs 16:9 because "we can make our plans, but the Lord determines out steps."  We have quite the story for y'all along with an incredible recap of HOLDFAST Dyer County's Women's Conference.  We wrap it all up with an update on all the bird shenanigans. As always, we hope this episode encourages you and puts a smile on your face.  We sure do love y'all and hope you have a great week!   Learn more about the HOLDFAST Dyer County Women's Conference on their Facebook page Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you!    Join our Facebook group   • Follow us on Instagram & on TikTok   

In this episode, Susie joins us for a full recap of Fran's fabulous birthday celebration at Walt Disney World!  We share all the details including where we stayed, what we ate, and what we did each day.  As always, Susie has the best recommendations including what to wear and how to pack.  We loved including y'all on this adventure and hope our shenanigans put a smile on your face today.   Susie's super cute toiletries bags  Susie's super cute fanny pack Bluey and the Grouchy Grannies Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you!  Join our Facebook group • Follow us on Instagram & TikTok  

Well, this morning we are headed home from Fran's fabulous birthday adventure. If you missed it, we saved a highlight of our stories on Instagram and will have a full trip report next week. In the meantime, please enjoy this conversation filled with life updates, things we bought on TikTok shop, new book recommendations, and our journeys toward finding and maintaining supernatural peace.  As always, we hope this conversation puts a smile on your face as you listen.  We sure do love y'all! "A Fine Sight to See: Leading Like You Were Made For It" by Sophie Hudson  "Hear Be Dragons: Treading the Deep Waters of Motherhood, Mean Girls, and Generational Trauma" by Melanie Shankle  Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you in our Facebook group, Instagram and on TikTok    This podcast is recorded on the campus of Union Unviersity.  If you have a student looking for a college, schedule a visit at www.uu.edu and be sure to let us know!  We would love to say hi!    

This week's conversation has us pondering some serious (and not-so-serious) topics including whether we need chore charts for grownups and our low level goals for 2025. Angela shares how she overcame a bad mood with Jesus, chicken, and some really cute Target boots.  We discuss the new year and why we prefer rhythms and habits over resolutions (Did you make any resolutions?  Send us updates if you did!).  We also talk about bible reading plans and why they matter.  We wrap it all up with Angela's word for the coming year and our prayer for us all.  As always, we hope this episode encourages you and puts a smile on your face.  We love y'all and love serving you through this podcast! Angela's cute Target boots Prayerful Planner Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you! Join our Facebook group, Instagram and TikTok      

Happy New Year!  The rambling is back and full of adventure :) We reflect back on our holiday season and look forward to all that 2025 has in store for us.  We share highlights from our Christmas breaks with our people including Fran's cinnamon roll mis-adventure and our favorite Christmas gifts.  Angela shares her Poppi soda review and ponders new hobbies (sourdough bread, anyone??). We hope this conversation puts a smile on your face as we begin a brand new year together!  Learn more about Purposefully Made Ministries here Poppi drinks DreameBot L20 Ultra Modern Monacle Bird Buddy Follow Emma's sewing account on Instagram - Emma Sews Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you on Facebook • Instagram & TikTok   

Merry Christmas, everybody!! Our final conversation for the year is packed full of holiday goodness including elf shenanigans, naked Christmas trees, new birds, Christmas movies, and stocking stuffers.  We also talk about all the Christmas food we love and get a little reflective as we begin thinking about a new year.  We hope this episode puts a smile on your face and joy in your heart!  We are so grateful for Jesus and pray you have a restful Christmas and a very happy new year!!    Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you!  Join us on Facebook, Instagram & TikTok   

This conversation was so fun!! We are rambling about so many random things including weighted vests, Fran's word aversions, Angela's new Hallow-Thank-mas tradition, and Fran's housing update.  We also talk about Make-a-Wish flights to the North Pole, easy plants, and gas station chicken.  Angela shares her favorite soup recipe, Fran has an update on Atlas' book about the turkeys, and we wrap it all up with our new favorite bible reading plan.  Buckle up and hang on!  As always, we hope this conversation makes your day better.  We sure do love y'all and love serving you through this podcast. Prodigen weighted vest  Easy plant Through the Word free bible reading plan  Bird buddy  Through the Word | Read the Bible. Understand it. Apply it. Make it a Habit.   Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you! Join us on Facebook •  Instagram • and TikTok   

It's finally time to talk about Christmas!  Y'all will love this conversation with our dear friend Marcy Simpson, known to locals as the owner of Hattie's.  Marcy has fun Christmas gift ideas and helped us mark several things off our Christmas lists.  She also shares her story and what the Lord taught her as she took a giant leap of faith and opened her own small business.  We loved our time with Marcy, and we are so excited to share this episode with you! Learn more about Hattie's and shop online here Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you!    Join our Facebook group   • Follow us on Instagram • Follow us on TikTok   • Follow us on Pinterest      

In this conversation, we discuss the upcoming holidays, easy ways to feed all the people when they come home, and a silly new tradition that involves costumes.  We marvel over how the Lord is bringing revival through our college athletes and reflect on how God prepares us for each new season.  Fran reminds us why it's important to consider the definition of leadership and provides a great question to ask potential employers.  Then Angela shares Colossians 3:12 and the spiritual lesson she learned the hard way (it's a good thing the word “remember” appears 8670 times in scripture because we are so prone to forget!)  This is classic rambling at its finest, and we hope it puts a smile on your face as you listen!   If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application. Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you in our Facebook group, Instagram & TikTok       

This is a fun conversation full of the easy listening we all need after surviving Halloween, a time change and the election. We laughed our way through most of this episode and think you will, too.  We begin AND end with Fran sharing wild adventure stories that will surprise and entertain you.  Then you asked and we answered your questions including the five things we are loving right now.  We had a lot to share so please enjoy our shenanigans and as always, we thank you for listening and love rambling with you each week!  Wendy's copycat chili recipe  snack baskets with liners Ruggable gingerbread house doormat Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you in our Facebook group, Instagram & TikTok    If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application.    

This conversation has the fun encouragment we all need to get us through election week.  We ramble about Halloween, Daylight Savings Time, Union Homecoming, Athena the owl, and Christmas tree cakes.  Our spiritual segment includes a recap of Amy Ragon's episode and the power of noticing.  We sure don't want to miss what the Lord is doing in our lives!   We pray this conversation will put a smile on your face.  We love you and love serving you each week through this podcast! Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you in our Facebook group, Instagram & TikTok    If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application.  

Our precious friend Amy Ragon is back by popular demand!  We love Amy for many reasons, especially her ability to have the deepest, richest conversations in the most relatable way. We talk about what it means to leave a legacy (shoutout Reading Rainbow!) and how to evaluate who we are becoming.  Amy shares what the Lord is teaching her, including some powerful encouragement for anyone in a waiting season.  We talk about discipleship and how we misunderstood what it actually means.  We talk about confessional community and how to identify and confess the deeply rooted sin in our life, plus how teach all of this to our children.  We consider the difference in listening vs. hearing and how to honor God well in our interactions with others. This converstion is so packed and so powerful and we are grateful for it!  Thank you, Amy, for always making us feel seen, heard and valued!   On legacy:  "Who are you becoming?" "What is available and waiting for us if we just have eyes to see it?"  On discipleship: "The gospel is always present in every conversation, even if it's not spoken.  Do we have ears to hear it?" "Every day we have to choose: am I going to follow Him with my life?" On confession: "When I can name my sin, it takes the power away from the enemy." "If the devil can isolate you, he will influence you." The Desire Chart by Paul David Tripp Centrality of the Gospel and Identifying Idols Worksheet by Tim Keller  "Do we believe God is who he says he is and will do what he says he will do?"   Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you in our Facebook group, on Instagram & TikTok    If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application.  

This conversation is all about our recent trips, sports and Jesus!  Fran shares details from her Fall Break trip to the Big Apple and Angela recaps her trip to the mountains.  We talk Tennessee football (Go Vols!), the adorable kid who danced his way into our hearts, plus our favorite ways to support disaster relief from the horriific flooding in East Tennessee and North Carolina.  We wrap it all up by answering our favorite questions: "What's the condition of your heart right now?  What is the Lord teaching you in this season?"  Let us know your thoughts after you listen. We love hearing from you! Learn more about the magnifier disguised as a beautiful necklace here Cozyband headband wireless headphones  Support disaster relief in East TN and Western NC when you buy a t-shirt from Old South Apparel Follow Cayson Cagle on Instagram here Pirate Voyage Dinner Show in Pigeon Forge Local Goat restaurant in Pigeon Forge  You can listen to the Union University "Let's Talk About That" Podcast with Brooke Hampel here “For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor. No good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly.” — Psalm 84:11 Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you in our Facebook group, Instagram & TikTok    If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application.  

If you need a little comedy in your life, parts of this conversation had us laughing until we cried.  We ramble about a lot of things including our fall break adventures and whether we are prepared for a natural disaster.  Hilarity ensues midway through this episode then we transition into the spiritual segment where we discuss how to be vulnerable and authentic as we pursue the Lord.  Who do you want to become as an individual pursuing Christ? What do you want to be known for?  How do you want God to use you? What is holding you back?  We talk about all of that and so much more, and as always, we pray it will encourage you today!   Learn more about Rapid Radios  Find Angela's favorite influencer for news headlines and updates on North Carolina's recovery efforts - Doxielvr on tiktok or instagram  Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you in our Facebook group, on Instagram & on TikTok   If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application.  

This week's conversation is a little more on the spiritual side, although y'all know us well enough to know there is some ridiculous, too.  We loved our time with the ladies at Malesus Baptist Church last month and wanted to share some of that conversation with you.  We discuss what it means to grow in Christ and how to know if you are entering a growing season.  There is discomfort in growth, and there is discomfort in staying the same.  We will never change if we aren't challenged!  We talk about abiding, pruning, watering, and other favorite takeaways from John 15 and Galatians 5. Ephesians 1:17-19 Romans 12 John 15:1-17 Galatians 5:22-23 “It doesn't matter who plants the seed or who waters the seed.  The Lord makes it grow.” 1 Corinthians 3:6-7 We aren't commanded to bear fruit. We are commanded to abide. Abiding is doing more by doing less. “Some thoughts are seeds that have been planted. Others are weeds born from our own soil. Either way, don't water what you don't want to grow.”  Jackie Hill Perry “Nothing is more painful to the branch or irresponsible of the Gardner than to avoid pruning.” Beth Moore “Chasing Vines” "Sit with women who sit at the feet of Jesus. The conversations are different. You walk away feeling inspired not inferior because those are women who know that this Christian walk is a race to God, but not a competition with others."  - Purposeful Women Co Angela's favorite burger joint in The Gulch, Nashville - Burger Republic  Learn more about the Kenyan ministry for special needs children and their mommas Purposefully Made Ministries We LOVE connecting with you in our Facebook group, on Instagram & on TikTok   If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application. Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body."  

Our favorite guest is back for Susie Said So Fall Edition!  You will love this conversation about fall trends in fashion and beauty, including the colors and patterns we need in our closet this season (yay for the return of the leopard print!).  We talk about jean, boot and skirt styles, nail colors, hostess gift ideas, and Susie's thoughts on a new hair growth supplement.  Susie also shares the sweetest update on their three grandchildren (including new baby Oliver!) plus Callie Oliver's top 5 "must haves" for new mamas.   camo pants from Walmart - so cute & just $16.99! Divi hair vitamin and supplement, grow & thicken   Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you in our Facebook group & on Instagram & TikTok    If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application.  

This conversation is full of classic rambling including Fran's trip to Chicago, Gen X reminiscing, what we are learning on Tiktok, and our new low-level goals.  We also have updates on Fran's new neighborhood adventures and Angela's shopping probation (and how she was motivated by a mouse!!!).  We wrap it all up with Galatians 6:9 and what the Lord is teaching us in this season.  We hope this episode puts a smile on your face.  We love y'all and hope you have a great week!  Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you! Find us on Facebook •Instagram and TikTok    If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application.            

This conversation begins with a blast from the past!  We are talking all things Gen X including the Brat Pack actors we loved as teenagers. We discuss the Brats documentary on Hulu, the power of being labeled by others and how it impacts our identity.  We also share what we are learning from Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer including contemplative prayer and the small habits crucial to our spiritual formation. This book has reshaped our undertanding of what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ, and we consider it a "must read" for us all! You can also watch this week's episode on our YouTube Channel!  Crest 3D White Professional Effects Whitestrips Teeth Whitening Kit  LifeCell Anti-Aging Teeth Serum Hokas Stinson 7  2048 game Brats documentary on Hulu All I wanted in life was to be seen, but I felt like I wasn't being seen. We give words the power to either help us grown or to harm us Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer Learning how to pause and simply "look at God looking at you with love."  Gaze at the beauty of the Lord. We become like what we gaze at.  The most important thing that happens between God and the human soul is to to love and be loved by God Contemplative prayer - spending time with Jesus - enjoying and being with God.  There's a kind of knowledge you can only get by direct person to person experience.  May you be covered in the dust of your rabbi. The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you on Facebook & Instagram • Follow us on TikTok    If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application.

We become llike the people we spend time with, and Rachel Mitchell is one of our very favorite influencers!  Our faith & fitness coach is back for another great conversation about the battle for our bodies, the importance of gut health, the supplements we need, and how to connect scripture to our fitness.  Rachel shares her "must haves" from ALDI, her go-to crockpot meal, and her favorite fitness hacks.  We wrap it all up with encouragement from scripture and what the Lord is teaching her in this season.  This is an episode you will want to listen to more than once and share with a friend!   Get Rachel's scripture guide to faith & fitness here Learn more about Rachel's favorite supplements:  Energize preworkout drink  Happy Juice for gut health & natural energy - use this link for $10 off! Creatine supplement Romans 12:1-2 "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Galatians 6:9 "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Learn more about Rachel's Faith & Fitness Virtual Bootcamp Easy Instant Pot Chicken Thighs - Kristine's Kitchen Listen to Rachel's podcast Living on Mission  Connect with Rachel online here Send Rachel an email:  rachel@racheljmitchell.com   Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Fran & Angela LOVE connecting with you on Facebook & Instagram • You can also follow us on TikTok   

Happy Labor Day, everybody!  We have a fun conversation for y'all this week full of classic rambling including updates on the swans and our volleyball tree, Angela's anniversary trip to the Tetons (and new favorite garment bag), and the new all-in-one skincare we are investigating.  We also discuss Kane's Gift and how to come alongside families who are adopting (and how to apply for grants if you are adopting).   Then we share our new favorite book "Practicing the Way" by John Mark Comer and why we think it's a must read!  Learn more about Jackson Lake Lodge inside Grand Teton National Park   Check out Angela's Halfday Garment Duffel bag and our favorite travel outfit LifeCell All-In-One Skin Tighteniing Treatment  Learn more about Kane's Gift and how to help families who are adopting (or how to apply for a grant if you are adopting)   Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer "May you be covered in the dust of your rabbi."  "It doesn't matter who plants the seed or who waters the seed, the Lord makes the seed grow." 1 Corinthians 3:7 You can also watch this week's episode on our YouTube Channel!  Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you in our Facebook group & on Instagram & TikTok     

In this episode, we continue the conversation about Fran's big move AND international mission trip in July.  Fran updates us on how she is doing and what the Lord is teaching her in this season.  We talk about our favorite travel essentials and the importance of getting outside our comfort zones.  Fran gives us great questions to ask as we are learning and growing in our relationship with the Lord.  Angela recaps Kaylee's mission trip to Kenya and her adventures there.  We share what we are loving on television lately, then wrap it all up with beautiful encouragement from scripture.  As always, we hope you enjoy this conversation, and we pray it encourages you today!      Our favorite travel essentials! Beis mini weekender and carryon    Cozy Earth travel outfit  Lululemon belt bag  Learn more about Fran's trip to the Dominican Republic with Mission of Hope "To whom much is given, much will be required." Luke 12:48  Learn more about Kaylee's trip to Kenya with Purposefully Made Ministries  Psalm 31 (The Message version)  I run to you, God; I run for dear life.     Don't let me down!     Take me seriously this time! Get down on my level and listen,     and please—no procrastination! Your granite cave a hiding place,     your high cliff nest a place of safety. You're my cave to hide in,     my cliff to climb. Be my safe leader,     be my true mountain guide. Free me from hidden traps;     I want to hide in you. I've put my life in your hands.     You won't drop me,     you'll never let me down.   If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application. Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you!    Join our Facebook group   • Follow us on Instagram 

We are back and we have so much catching up to do!! In this episode, we recap our summer including Angela's trip to Boston and our summer book club "Untangle Your Emotions" by Jennie Allen.  It's amazing how the Lord was literally preparing Fran for all the major life changes that happened in July, and we talk about all of it!  Fran is so honest about what she learned and how to show up for people in hard seasons.  Proverbs 16:9 reminds us "We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps."  Isnt' that the honest truth?!  We are so thankful the Lord is with us through it all.  We sure do love y'all and we are so excited to be with you again for another season of rambling through everyday life!  We LOVE connecting with you on social media ! Join us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok    If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application. Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body."

Interested in staying up to date with our June book club?  Fill out this form and you won't miss a single thing.  This is our final conversation of season 4 and we ramble about graduation and the transitions that come with that. We ramble about our summer (actually just June) book club. We will be reading Jennie Allen's new book "Untangle Your Emotions." Order yours  here. Do you need some simple summer things to eat? We talk about that. Of course there is a baby swan update from the farm too! And then we end with the spiritual encouragement we need as we head into summer. Do you follow us on all the socials? Here is our facebook group. Follow us on Instagram. Every now and then we post on TikTok. We need to do more of that this summer. :) Also, we have a YouTube channel! Some episodes are video. Every audio only episode is there. 

Our favorite faith and fitness coach is back!  Rachel Mitchell is passionate about helping women reach our health and fitness goals through inspiration, motivation, meal planning and God's truths. We talk about our relationships with food, why we should eat more(!!!) to feel better, and how to enjoy exercise.  Y'all will love this conversation and will be so encouraged by it!  Prayer: Lead me to what is good, God-honoring and sustainable! "God already views your body as a perfect and beautiful sacrifice! Romans 12:1-2 "I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." burger in a bowl recipe Join a virtual boot camp, sign up for online devotionals, & connect with Rachel Mitchell here! Listen to Rachel's podcast Living on Mission Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body."What am I doing with the body God gave me and the people God gave me?" Deuteronomy 2:3 "You have circled this mountain long enough.  Now turn north!" We LOVE connecting with you: Join our Facebook group • Follow us on  Instagram • Follow us on TikTok   If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application.  

This conversation is classic rambling including Angela's birthday and all the things we have been up to lately!  You can also watch this week's episode on our YouTube Channel!  Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Graduation gift ideas: First Light and Eventide Journal New Morning Mercies by Paul Tripp If you are interested in the free online seminary level classes we took as part of Fellowship University, you can find them online here  If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application. We LOVE connecting with you! Join our Facebook group & follow us on Instagram &  TikTok       

Y'all are in for a treat!  Susie is back and this conversation is packed with everything we need to know this summer including shoes, jewelry, swimsuits, manicures and skincare.  Susie has thoughtful Mother's Day gift ideas, plus fashion advice on what's in, what's out, easy ways to update our wardrobes, and how to find the perfect white tee! We also talk about skincare, summer travel and fun ideas for the kids en route.  We have linked a few of her favorites below and will also include them in a "Susie Said So" highlight on our Instagram page. Paul Green sneakers For local folks, here are two of our very favorite boutiques! Hattie's & Lily May Pink Lilly maternity clothing Bogg bags & Simply Modern bags Callie Oliver Bearden's party decor business Callie Clara's Creations Click here to rent Susie's 3 Bedroom Beachfront Condo on the Gulf!  Angela's new short-sleeve tie-waist t-shirt dress! J. Crew dress The Perfect White Tee Shirt Susie's 3 skincare must-haves: Cerave Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C serum & Perbelle   If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application. Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you! Join our Facebook group • Follow us on Instagram & TikTok  

This conversation includes a little craziness from Angela's life as an attorney, updates on the farm animals, and a super fun rambling surprise!  We also shout out Aunt Rayna for winning the Sue Shelton White Award last week!  Then we wrap it all up with the name game, some spiritual encouragement, and a sweet update on our volleyball tree.   Listen to Rayna on Episode 117 How to Be Prepared with Rayna Bomar Learn how to dedicate a tree on Union University's campus here Get your book for our summer book club!  Untangle Your Emotions by Jennie Allen If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application. Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you! Join our Facebook group • Follow us on Instagram and TikTok   

Happy eclipse day and happy podcast release day, everybody!  In this conversation, we talk about the serious, the not-so-serious, and everything in between!  Angela shares swan updates from the farm and her big city Birmingham adventures.  We talk about Fran's trip to Jonesboro and our thoughts "The Bachelor" finale, then transition into a spiritually deep conversation about our last few weeks in bible study with the Union University volleyball team.  This semester, we have focused on "growth" and we were joined recently by two very special guests, Dr. Dub Oliver and Dr. Michael Schiebout.  Fran shares the lessons we can all learn from their wisdom, including the powerful reminder to "grow something worth passing down!" Psalm 90:12 "Teach us to number our days, that we may have a heart of wisdom." Mark 12:30-31 "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength.  And love your neighbor as yourself." "Let's grow something worth passing down! We are growing a legacy!"  Dr. Dub Oliver Psalm 78:72 "So he fed them according to the integrity of his heart; and guided them by the skilfulness of his hands." Live Like You Were Dying by Tim McGraw "Growth will be seen when we pursue it.  Growth requires effort and the Holy Spirit is the key to our growth." Dr. Michael Schiebout John 15:1-8 "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned.  If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples." Learn more about Union University's Arboretum including how to dedicate a tree  If you want to learn more about applying to Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application. Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you!    Join our Facebook group   • Follow us on Instagram • Follow us on TikTok   • Follow us on Pinterest  

Our precious friend Kristin Kluck is back for another "Cooking with KK" and we are here for it! We get so tired of asking ourselves "what's for dinner?" and Kristin shares so many quick and easy meal ideas including her "sleeper hit for the grill" and simple side dishes.  We also talk about creative uses for all the fresh fruit that's about to be in season, including salads and slushes the whole family will love.  If you need a creative, fun idea for birthday parties or dinner with friends, Kristin can help with that, too!  She truly is our culinary queen, and we are so grateful she simplifies cooking for the rest of us! Listen to our prior conversation on Episode 108:Cooking With KK Local folks - don't miss Kristin's popup on Saturday, April 6th!  Details here  Connect with Kristin on Instagram and subscribe to her email list  Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you!  Join our Facebook group   • Follow us on Instagram • Follow us on TikTok    If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application.    

In this converation, we share all the details for our $50 Easter giveaway with Hello Grace!   Angela updates us on farm life (including the swans and morel mushrooms), her favorite gratitude journal, and a quick (and healthy!) dinner recipe your family will love. Then Fran gets spiritually deep and meaningful as she shares her recent GO trip to Clarkston, Georgia, and how the lessons she learned apply to each of us.  This is the perfect conversation for Holy Week as we examine our lives and ask ourselves "what is the condition of my heart?" We pray this episode will be a blessing to you! Shop Hello Grace on Instagram Daily Light & Eventide: A Gratitude Journal by Tsh Oxenrider.  As you record your answers to three key questions at the beginning and end of your day — your bookends — you'll be better prepared for whatever God has for you in the hours between. Healthy Chicken Taco Casserole Learn more about Union University GO trips here Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you!   Join our Facebook group   • Follow us on Instagram • Follow us on TikTok   If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application.

Hooray for spring and more sunshine!  This conversation is a little more serious, but we also ramble about silly things including farm life, radio icons, and a fun spring giveaway with Hello Grace.  Fran shares where she is going for spring break and what she is learning as she prepares for that trip.  We also talk about Psalm 139 and the condition of our hearts. There is so much power in our vulnerability! We have to be willing to ask the Lord to examine our hearts and not be afraid of it, then share what we are learning with our people.  Do you remember listening to the iconic Delilah on the radio?   Angela's sweatshirt "pray before you overthink" can be found here Stay tuned for a fun giveaway with Hello Grace & our precious friend Annika Brooks! Listen to Grace Valentine on Episode 138 Learn more about Grace Valentine's Purpose Retreat designed to help young women find their purpose Find Grace White's fun videos here  Learn more about Union University GO Trips here Psalm 139:23-24. "Search me thoroughly, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any wicked, hurtful or offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." The Lord knows you.  The Lord is with you. The Lord made you. The Lord is for you.  Join us in June for our book club!  Untangle Your Emotions by Jennie Allen  Jeremiah 29:13 "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Colossians 2:7 "Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness." Ask daily: What's the condition of my heart right now? What is the Lord teaching me?  Am I growing in my relationship with the Lord?   Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you!    Join our Facebook group   • Follow us on Instagram • Follow us on TikTok   • Follow us on Pinterest If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application.

This conversation is pure, classic rambling including life updates and what we are looking forward to this spring. plus an exciting announcement about our new book club! You can also watch this week's episode on our YouTube Channel!  Learn more about Jennie Allen & the reasons we need to untangle our emotions here Order your copy on Amazon Untangle Your Emotions: Naming What You Feel and Knowing What to Do About It by Jennie Allen Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you!    Join our Facebook group   • Follow us on Instagram • Follow us on TikTok   • Follow us on Pinterest If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application.  

We are so excited to share this conversation with y'all!  Dr. Dub is back and full of the wisdom and action steps we needed.  We talk about the importance of living humbly regardless of your title or position and how to be more present with the people you encounter each day. Dr. Dub shares practical ways to focus our minds on scripture plus the daily & weekly disciplines that will change your life.  We also asked for his book recommendations which inadvertently led us to our very own "book colloquium" (stay tuned!) and of course, we talk about our beloved college students and all the ways they bring us hope for the future.  Y'all will love this conversation and will learn so much from Dr. Dub. We sure did!   People think we have less agency than we actually do.   We can take control of when we respond on social media. Prayer: Lord help me to love well the people you have given me to love  Let's create the space we really want for people.  Daily reminder: scripture before anything else and scripture above everything else.  Don't apologize for patterns in your own life that bring health and life and flourishing.  For sabbath to work, we have to be intentional about it.  Nobody likes discipline in the moment but then you see the fruit it bears and it's always worth it.   Dr. Dub's book recommendations: The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: How to Stay Emotionally Healthy and Spiritually Alive in the Chaos of the Modern World by John Mark Comer  A Non-Anxious Presence : How a Challenging and Complex World will Create a Remnant of Renewed Christian Leaders by Mark Sayers  24/6: A Prescription for a Happier, Healthier Life by Matthew Sleeth  The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction by Justin Whitnell Earley    If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application. Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you!    Join our Facebook group   • Follow us on Instagram • Follow us on TikTok   • Follow us on Pinterest

You asked and we answered!  We love hearing from y'all and this was so fun!  In this conversation we talk about travel, how we relax, what we are watching & reading, what's bringing us joy right now, what exhausts us, our fave go-to meals, and what we do for fun.  We also share one tiny habit we can all incorporate to create an extraordinary life.  We sure do love y'all and hope you enjoy this classic rambling!      Check out Beis luggage including Angela's favorite - the mini weekender here Angela's favorite websites & podcasts for Disney trip planning: TouringPlans and WDW Prep School Listen to Mallory Lamm's episode on Disordered Eating & Body Image  Listen to Rachel Mitchell's episode on authenticity Luke 5:16 "But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed." Our book recommendations: Wild and Free: A Hope-Filled Anthem for the Woman Who Feels She is Both Too Much and Never Enough by Jess Connoly and Hayley Morgan  40 Days of Decrease: A Different Kind of Hunger.  A Different Kind of Fast by Alicia Britt Chole The Masterpiece by Francine Rivers Never Split the Differrence: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On it by Chris Voss You can also watch this week's episode on our YouTube Channel!  If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application. Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you!    Join our Facebook group   • Follow us on Instagram • Follow us on TikTok   • Follow us on Pinterest            

In this special conversation, Fran sits down with our beloved friend Susie Oliver to talk about doing hard things! Susie recently made a bold decision to become a Pure Barre instructor so she can help women stay active and healthy.  Susie and Fran help us identify the hard thing each of us are facing and then give us practical wisdom for taking next steps in that direction.  Susie candidly shares what she is learning on her journey, why it's worth the risk and how we can all be brave in whatever the Lord is calling us into! We can do hard things with Jesus and one another! Don't let comparison steal your joy!  Just because the Lord called you to it, that doesn't mean it will be easy! It's not about perfection! We will make mistakes and that's okay! Lean into whatever the Lord has for you to do!  Pray this: Lord show me what you want me to do, then give me the courage to do it! Philippians 4  Learn more about Pure Barre here If you want to learn more about Union University, check out the website www.uu.edu or email Fran at fthomas@uu.edu - we also have a fee waiver fee if you plan to apply!  Simply use the word TALK on the application. Proverbs 16:24: "Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." We LOVE connecting with you!    Join our Facebook group   • Follow us on Instagram • Follow us on TikTok   • Follow us on Pinterest