She Made Herself a Home

It's the final episode of the season and I want to take the time to say farewell and thank you for taking the time out of your day to listen to She Made Herself A home as I complete this series with 70 episodes.    I am so thankful for the platform that the Lord has given me to share more of who I was, to share my passions more deeply, and to be more vulnerable. This podcast has really helped me counsel myself, and I am so happy and thankful that some of you have benefited from it.  I am headed off to take care of my people but you can still follow me on Instagram and TikTok and on my blog.    Thank you guys so much for being here and for investing in my family, my home. This little gal from Tennessee greatly appreciates you   Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

While the term investment might make you think of monetary and proprietary gains, if you look deeper, investment actually covers a lot more ground than you think. When you take the time to truly think about what you want to invest in, you uncover ways you can increase the joy, prosperity and purpose in your life.    As I close out this season, I've been thinking about the last few things I've wanted to leave with you guys in these next few episodes. In today's episode, I want to talk about three things to invest in today that will greatly enhance your quality of life.    In this episode, we cover: Invest in yourself [3:28] Invest in your spouse, your family, your friends and the Lord to foster that love and intimacy [6:04] Invest in conversations with yourself [9:17] Invest in your dreams [10:34] This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

The meaning of self-doubt is a lack of faith in oneself, it means that you don't feel certain about your own abilities or actions. It's a big problem, and everyone feels the same way, yet sometimes it just creeps in and before you know it you begin to question yourself.     As I close out this season, I've been thinking about the last few things I've wanted to leave with you guys in these next few episodes. In today's episode, I want to share with you what I have learned about self doubt and how you can handle it.   In this episode, we cover:   Stop doubting yourself [2:09] When you are doubting yourself you need to lean into your passions [4:04] Take the risk, it's worth it [6:32] If you fail, who cares? At least you marked it off your bucket list and you can now move forward [9:56] This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

  The goal of my podcast is to share words of wisdom and inspiration to help you carry on throughout the days. I know that life can get hard, and there are challenges we face that can really bring us down, but when you dive deep down into all the things that make you who you are, you come to realize just how worthy you are.      I've been thinking about the last few things I've wanted to leave with you guys in these next few episodes, and I simply just want to build you guys up and let you know that you're worth it. In today's episode, I want to share with you why I think you're valuable and the lessons I have learned over the last year and a half.    In this episode, we cover: It can be easy to get wrapped up in living in a material world but giving is just as good as receiving  [3:39] What matters actually matters, don't focus on the things that do not matter [6:44] The Devil likes to whisper things to throw you off track but don't fall victim to these negative thoughts [9:55] This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

It might seem like an issue in your teens, but struggling with self esteem is something that many adults struggle with. I've seen my friends and family struggle with self esteem, and as mothers, we often feel a little lost and this in turn impacts our self esteem.     In today's episode, I share ways to increase your self esteem based on an article by Psychology Today. These easy steps include having a positive attitude which in turn increases your trust and belief in yourself, breaking the stigma by talking to your friends and most importantly making time for fun (something I've discussed in previous podcasts).  Self improvement and self confidence isn't something you change overnight but you can work on it bit by bit!   In this episode, we cover: Struggling with self esteem? Here are 10 things you can do about it [1:41] #1 Have a Positive Attitude [3:18] #2 Talk to Your Friends [4:03] #3 Get Up and Move [4:46] #4 and #5 Do a Purpose Driven Activity and Create Plans [6:34] #6 Listen to Your Body [7:22] #7 and #8 Nourish Your Body with the Right Foods and Make Quality Time for Yourself [8:15] #9 and #10 Write Out Your Goals and Have Fun! [8:57] Our self worth goes back to how we were raised and what relationship we had with our parents [9:41] Article referenced: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-upside-things/202009/10-ways-boost-your-self-esteem   This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

If I ignore the problem it'll go away! I am too old to start a new career!  I don't have a choice! Have you found yourself thinking of any of these? When you decide to believe these lies, what does it actually tell you about yourself and where is it coming from? It's easy to believe these lies but in the long run, it doesn't serve you at all, no matter how hard you try to convince yourself otherwise    In today's episode, I share the six lies we tell ourselves and how to get over them. Whether it's convincing yourself you're not good enough, brave enough or pretty enough or asking yourself why some people have the things you want but you don't have, we are often coming back to a negative mindset and living in those comparison traps. These lies aren't helpful and I share why it's important to take small steps to remove these limiting beliefs out of your life.   This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

Big projects, last-minute deadlines, afterschool activities, even laundry - all of these things are part of your to-do list. At times it can seem overwhelming, especially when you forget to do something, it feels like all your responsibilities pile up and your brain is going to explode. Wouldn't it be nice to just press the pause button for a moment and give yourself a chance to slow down and catch up?   In today's episode, I discuss how you can find ways to balance your time and not feel burdened by the tug of life. Productivity is important, and oftentimes it's what helps us feel fulfilled, but it can also make us feel like there is not enough time in the day to do anything. I share tips on ways to simplify and de-stress your life so that you can regain control in the areas of life that matter to you the most.    In this episode, we cover:   Wanting to slow down and hit the pause button when life's to-do list gets too much (1:46) Before you can de-stress your life you need to figure out what stresses you out (4:19) How can you make the stressors go away? Once you identify them, it's time to act on it (10:45) You're setting yourself up for failure when you crap multiple days worth of tasks into one 24 hour cycle (14:18) When we live in a world of stress, we are burying our soul, our mind, our creativity, and our purpose. It's important to identify your triggers so you don't lose sight of yourself (17:00) You got yourself into the stress, you can get yourself out of the stress (20:41)   Links mentioned:   https://tanyadalton.com/onpurpose   This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today's episode, I discuss the idea of the legacy of creating a home. This topic is inspired by an article I wrote for a magazine (Eden & Vine). The idea of creating the legacy of a home goes beyond what you're doing on a day-to-day basis. It is about consistency and the memories that will remain with your kids as they grow older. I share tips for creating a legacy of a home and how you can cultivate that same spirit in your own homes. Cultivating your own house creates a solid foundation based on the things you've learned and experienced so that you can pass it down to your own children and family. To the naked eye, virtues like love, forgiveness, intimacy, joy, and sorrow seem invisible, but in reality, they are integral to creating a safe space This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today's episode, I discuss tips to deal with crippling anxiety and how to approach it, especially when the people you love and support do not understand what you're going through. Speaking from experience, I share what it was like to have a husband who did not comprehend the severity of my anxiety until he had to deal with it himself. After posting a quote in honor of Mental Health Awareness Day, I received an influx of DMs from followers and listeners sharing their experience with anxiety and mental health. I am here to say I hear you and I am here for you.  This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today's episode, I talk about an incredible book about achieving your goals.  This week, I share excerpts from Mark Patterson's book “Circle Maker” - A Christian perspective book about how to achieve your goals. Goals are important for us as humans, and I share 10 steps you can take to make your dreams and goals come true. Be specific, include others, and remember to celebrate along the way.  This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In this episode, I talk about how most of us do not know what fun is. While some of us still live with that same childlike playfulness, a lot of us- especially women- suffer from a crowded plate and too much guilt to even think of fun. This week, I share why as adults we need to have fun. You don't need to schedule a playdate, but you should have time for fun! Having fun increases our cognitive capacity, enhances our creativity and improves our overall wellbeing. Playtime shouldn't end once the real adulting kicks in. Though it might be hard at first, I am here to remind you that it's time to have fun. Article referenced: https://daringtolivefully.com/more-fun-and-play-for-adults  This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today's episode, I talk about how there is a common rhetoric amongst parents that we are raising children in such frightening times. While some of this might be true, I believe for the most part we are quite lucky to live in the USA and raise our children here. This week, I share why we should focus on uplifting our children, setting aside negative thoughts, and shifting our attention to building our children's spirits through positive parenting.  This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today's episode, I talk about communication and marriage. Over the long weekend, I had a chance to connect with my husband and we talked about what I could talk about on the podcast.  Richard and I don't necessarily fight but we do bicker with each other like old people, only because of how long we've known each other. This week, I share ways that you can communicate with your partner and what communication looks like in a marriage.  Rachel shares how she and her husband got into an argument over the weekend and what transpired afterward (1:48) How to approach the role of housework with your spouse - tips from author and marriage expert Willard F. Harley, Jr's book. One way is to identify all the household responsibilities  (5:14) Many women have this argument that they don't get the help that they need in the household, but this can be avoided through proper communication about each other's roles. Rachel shares how this looks like between her and her husband (9:30) Communicating with your spouse about what you need help with is important to consider. Another way to address housework and avoid conflict according to Willard F. Harley Jr is to communicate which tasks you don't mind doing yourself  (11:12) When it comes to housework marriage takes you a step further because you do things for each other because you care about each other's feelings and not because you want them done yourself (13:27) Book mentioned: His Needs, Her Needs by Willard F. Harley Jr.  This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today's episode, I talk about feeling mentally exhausted. With everything that is going on in the world, and within my own household, everything seems out of control. As a mom, I want to be more mindful of what I say and feel so that my children know that not everything I feel is doom and gloom, and I know many parents out there feel the same. This week I want to share with you something that has touched my heart and changed my perspective, and how we can see the silver lining on even the darkest of days.  Rachel shares a passage from CS Lewis, a brilliant author, that has helped shift her perspective on what is going on in the world. In his quote, CS Lewis writes how we are already sentenced to death the moment we are born, but that should not prevent us from living our lives (1:47) Through loss, you learn that our lives will eventually end but you cannot wait. Life marches on! Though it seems easy to lament and mourn, the world continues to move forward and you must pull yourself together and continue to live life with joy (6:07) Rachel shares why she loves the word hope and what it means to her on a day to day basis (8:39) We are constantly consuming despite not having the mental space to store all this information. This increased level of consumption leads to compassion fatigue, but despite this, there is hope and there is good in the world (10:28) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today's episode, I talk about compassion fatigue. With everything that is going on in the world, everything seems overwhelming and out of control. There is a lot of suffering and I feel like I am not doing enough. This week my anxiety is out of control but I want to share with you how I refocus, recenter and tackle compassion fatigue through the work of Jennie Allen. Rachel explains how events this have increased her anxiety and what she does to calm herself down, quiet her mind and refocus (2:08) How detoxing from social media and being constantly connected to technology helps combat anxiety, and allows you to reconnect with those around you (3:26) Compassion fatigue is real! Rachel shares how you can disconnect by reconnecting through another medium. We might feel connected online but are we connecting enough in person, with the people in our own circle? (6:28) Educate yourself deeply, speak up, and give and serve one or two big issues a day. Don't try to tackle everything! Centering yourself in spirituality and God's word helps remind you of that intention (9:09) We have access to too  much knowledge, too much power and too much news. In a world of “more” how do you step back and process it all? (12:25) Rachel shares a few Bible verses that help her soother her anxiety, help get over certain situations and address compassion fatigue (15:02) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today's episode, I continue on from Episode 52 last week, to talk about a few ways you can eliminate toxic thoughts. I summarize key points I've read from Jenny Allen's best-selling book that talks about how our thoughts shape our lives. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed by challenges in life and oftentimes thoughts control and affect our behavior.  I want to remind you that letting our thoughts spiral out of control won't help us, and instead, we should try to eliminate our toxic thoughts. Change your thoughts, change your habits, change your outcome.   Why are we having toxic thoughts? Knowledge is power, so what is triggering these thoughts and how can we address and acknowledge them (4:07) Tip #1 - Acknowledging what triggers the toxicity can also help determine if the fear or toxic thought is real or fabricated. Once that is established you can then let go (6:40) Tip #2 - One way to address toxic thoughts is to do a “Tangible Act.” Rachel explains how writing a letter directed to some of her anxieties and thoughts helped her release some of that toxicity (8:49) Tip #3 - Focus on new and better influences. Surround yourself with positive people and allow that energy to transfer over (12:03) Tip #4 - Distance yourself from toxic and negative energy. You can also situate yourself in nature and allow the outdoor to provide peace  (12:31) Tip #5 - Connect with others and forge meaningful connections. This allows you to prevent yourself from ruminating in toxic thoughts and allowing your loneliness to make you feel sad (14:07) Tip #6 - Choose thankfulness. Rewire your brain and mindset to focus on more positive aspects of life and expressing gratitude (15:42) Tip #7  - Center yourself in Christ. In instances of despair and sadness, remind yourself what would Jesus do? (17:06) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today's episode, I talk about eliminating toxic thoughts. With this being the last week before school starts, I've been busy preparing for the end of summer and the beginning of the school year, but I've had a lot of time to reflect on my own thoughts. Recently, I finished reading a book by Jennie Allen that talks about how our thoughts shape the lives we live. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed by our day-to-day life and oftentimes thoughts can be consuming to the point of controlling. However, I am here to remind you that letting our thoughts spiral out of control does more harm than good. It's time to eliminate our toxic thoughts   With how life is going recently, we spend more time with our thoughts than ever. But how exactly do our thoughts shape the lives we live and what is the relationship with our health? (2:27) Rachel shares the 3 lies we believe about ourselves covered in the book“Get out of your head” by Jenny Allen, and how it's impacted her own life (3:48) The danger of toxic thinking is the distorted version of reality it creates in our own minds (6:38) The power of repetition and interruption: How to combat toxic thoughts by redirecting them with something more positive (9:46) Rachel speaks about how her negative thoughts spiral and her habit of “burying” her concerns instead of confronting them (14:01) Changing your thoughts will change your behavior. What are some of your toxic thoughts and what categories do they fall into? How can you begin to change these patterns (17:26) What are some steps you can take and resources you can use to combat toxic thoughts? (20:40) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today's episode, I talk about a profound revelation that came to me earlier in the day. I have a lot of stuff, and it made me feel overwhelmed with just how much I consume. It's easy to get overwhelmed, but it's also important to take a moment and center yourself. We can opt to worry about the small things or take some comfort knowing most things almost always get sorted in the end. I encourage you to focus on the less and be mindful of what you allow to enter into your home. Feeling consumed with consumption  (2:15) Refocusing on thanking the Lord for what we have (4:04) Seeking inspiration on social media and following those who encourage you (5:20) If I could raise my child again, a poem (6:28) When the mom guilt comes in (8:06) Building traditions and incorporating more fun and spontaneity (10:15) Less correcting, more connecting (14:56) Taking a moment to step back as an adult and tapping into our inner child (18:23) Slow down and enjoy having “less” (22:05) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today's episode, I talk about how to use your time wisely. This topic is inspired by a very busy week I've had, taking care of sick baby, trying to sort out podcast scheduling and thinking about the upcoming school year. We have a lot of things to do, but it's important to center ourselves, allow for proper rest and really think about how we use our time. The importance of taking a day off  (1:57) Taking the time to schedule your life makes it a whole lot easier (3:21) What taking better care of my family looks like (4:15) How to plan your week more efficiently (5:11) Understand how many hours in a week you have for yourself (8:47) Plan your free time wisely - wherever you can find it (10:41) Links mentioned: https://planningwithkids.com/2015/02/27/create-weekly-schedule/ This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today's episode, I talk about the home, what it actually means, and how it's not always the picture-perfect fairytale you see on Instagram. Instead, I want to share with you the idea of creating an intentional home, a home that is centered inside your mind and heart. Why you should focus on creating a "home" that comes from your heart and not something you see on or is influenced by interactions on social media. Simple encouragement from the bible and a few other realizations this week (2:10) A message from Matthew 5 on mindfulness, being blessed, and being connected to God (4:01) How can we be blessed when we've lost someone we love? (5:20) Being content with who you are (6:30) Being blessed when we are in our lowest places and when we being to care (8:37) Dealing with unkind people on the internet and the daily stresses of life (11:11) The importance of being truthful and content in your mind and heart (14:40) Focus on controlling your reactions and responding to someone instead. Why you should let go (15:38) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today's episode, I talk about the “I need to” statement, something that I always find myself saying over and over again. Today I share with you some of the “I need to's” I've been dealing with and I am sure you guys at home may be going through the same. As a mother with three homeschooled children, and a business I am dealing with a lot. I hope that by speaking about my personal experiences with you, it brings you the same clarity it provides for me.  As a mother and business owner, it seems there is a lot of “I need to's”, primarily the centered around maintenance, the kids, and the home. (2:36) The desire to organize family photos from iCloud into properly printed albums, how to organize homeschooling this year, and how to make things easier as a mom. (3:51) Take the time to find a moment to declutter your mind and figure out what is stressing you out. (4:27) You know what stresses you out, identify them and speak to someone about it and sort out a solution. (5:34) Home and work life often weigh women down, it can be tough to balance organizing your home, caring for kids, and growing your business.  (7:28) Break down what is breaking you down instead of allowing them to pile up. (8:41) Look at your support network and see who you can reach out to help you out. (11:54)  It helps me to know my expectation for the day and what other people have expected of me. When you can figure out what the source of stress is then you can address it. (14:21) My generation struggles with trying to have it all, chasing dreams and passions and then also being a homemaker, and have this mounting “I need to” list. (15:57) I encourage you to try each each to  think about your “I need to” and then finding a way  to address it head-on. (17:13) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today's episode Rachel asks the question, what is something that you want to embrace but you're a little bit scared? Rachel shares questions to ask yourself to help work through the fear and do the hardest part, start. There are all kinds of things you can physically do to put one foot in front of the other to achieve the goal, so today Rachel encourages you to begin. If we don't take the leap, we'll regret it and if we fail, we can still be proud of ourselves for trying.  Rachel shares from a vulnerable place as she puts off the one thing that she needs to be focusing on but is scared to do and that is her next book proposal. (1:30) Even when told no and doors close, remember to keep conquering your dreams no matter what because other opportunities will come when looking for them. (4:37) When you're dealing with something you're scared of it feels like there is a physical wall that you can't get through to do it. (6:28) The hardest part of doing something that scares you is to start by investing time in it, whether it's putting pen to paper or researching an idea. (9:32) Make sure to embrace what you're scared of, do the tangible things that you need to do to investigate and then decide if it's something you want to do further. (13:28) Surround yourself with people that encourage you and are walking the great paths of life because you are who you surround yourself with. (17:37) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today's episode Rachel shares scripture near and dear to her heart, the fruits of the spirit in Galatians 5. She has spent a lot of her life learning what it means to be a Christian and have the fruits of the spirit be the characteristics of a life that is submitted to God. Rachel encourages you to spend time this week digging deeper into these spirits and pray to be shown where they can be reflected more. Pray to be shown, examples are guaranteed to come to mind. Let us be better humans with these nine gifts.  The nine fruits of the spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. (1:55) Even though anyone can display the fruits of the spirit, Christians are to be known by these attributes being reflected in their way of life. (3:57) Rachel breaks down each word because it is easy to brush past the words and sometimes we need to reflect on definitions to allow the meaning to sink in. (8:03) Living with the fruits of the spirit is a choice, the Lord wants us to choose these spirits as representation of who He is in us. (15:48) There are a few fruits of the spirit Rachel believes the Lord is trying to teach her and show her and put confidence in Him. (18:14) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today's episode Richard takes over the podcast and shares his struggles as a man. His main priority is to be a godly husband and father to Rachel and the kids. Unfortunately there are things that pull at his attention but it's not possible to be perfect. So instead of trying to be, he surrenders them to God to help keep his eyes on Him.  One of the biggest things for me that has always been there is rooted in faith, being a godly father and husband. (2:50) Being a godly father is a matter of getting your priorities straight and keeping your family first. (6:32) A godly man lifts his wife up to God daily and asks for God to watch over her, take care of her, protect her mind, protect her heart, and everything about her. (9:12) Richard's perspective and insights on Rachel's intimacy guilt and how he sees romance in their marriage today. (13:07) As an extrovert, Richard really enjoys getting out of the house and spending time alone or with friends, especially on his boat. (15:30) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode we wrap up the “how to” series with how to navigate negativity. As someone who tends to live in a negative headspace, I know it expands and can become bigger so that we fall into the anxiety category. A lot of us are dealing with negativity in the social media space and trying to navigate those difficult situations. Today I share some ways I am countering the negativity from strangers in my life and I hope it encourages you with a few tips.  I let you in on a secret; I tend to be a constant, pessimistic person, always on the negative side of things and have learned ways to battle against it. (2:05)  The first tip to strangers being negative towards you is to remember that a negative voice comes from negatively hurt people. (6:00) Another tip in approaching negativity is to ask yourself questions that will help identify what the problem is, whether it’s with a product or situation or conversation. (10:54) A third tip is to decide if the negativity needs to be addressed or if it can be let go of and you can move on in a healthy way. (17:07) Take the time to take out the bricks you are carrying from your past and navigate how you can forgive yourself for them. (22:33) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode I have another requested “how to” topic, how I balanced my work life and home life and all the things. Simply, I don’t. Listen in as I share what balance means to me in this season and how it changes depending on what’s going on in our lives. And remember, if you only get one thing accomplished today, celebrate it, and focus on what you can do better tomorrow. I think a lot of people assume you live your life a certain way based on the few minutes of a day they see on social media and assume that that's exactly how it is. (01:47) An example of my ideal day and how I break things down into tasks and time slots so that things get done even though it’s not always in order. (3:07) Different questions to help you identify what you need help with and then what to do next. (7:23) Remember as you identify how to balance it all, make sure that your people feel loved, taken care of and enjoy the life you're working so hard to create. (11:21) When you're aware of how your day is being spent, you're more apt to invest in something for yourself and figure out where to place things. (16:46) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode we explore the “how to” topic of finding your passion. As adults we can go back in time and try to remember what sparked our passion and what drove us differently than other things. It may require time to get to know yourself again and reconnect with what brings you joy, there are some questions provided to help with that process. When you try something you may find it’s actually not fun, the beauty of discovering your passion is narrowing down something to the core. God created us with these passions, enjoy yours and see where it takes you.  The first step to discovering your passion is to think about some things that strike your fancy, get to know yourself again and identify what you love. (2:47) Spend time trying to answer these different questions to spark your interest and rediscover what brings you joy. (5:57) Think about if your passion is for income and what you could start doing on the side to build it up over the next months and years. (10:14) Do your research around the passion and understand what it is you’re getting yourself into, google and youtube are great resources to learn from others. (15:03) The hardest part is believing in the gifts we've been given and putting them into practice, you never know where that passion will take you if you don't try. (17:41) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode we dive into another topic in the “how to” series, this one is about how to discern hearing God's voice or hearing God or knowing what God wants you to do. A lot of the talking points for today’s episode come from Priscilla Shirer, an American author, motivational speaker, actress, Christian evangelist. In today’s episode I share how my journey began with writing letters in journals to God from a very young age and has evolved over time. As Priscilla says, the more you know him, the more you hear him.  One question listeners asked is how to discern hearing God's voice or hearing God or knowing what God wants you to do. (1:30) My journey communicating with God began after a friend of the family’s tragedy and I began writing God letters. (4:32) If we want to hear God and be heard by him, then we have to be willing to get to know him and spend time with him because he wants us to share with him. (10:24) Position your heart to eagerly anticipate the Lord through practice and expectation of God to answer your questions and concerns, and have peace about it. (15:41) Different ways the Lord has spoken to me; in circumstances, through people I meet in the word, hearing a passage that I needed, and more. (20:15) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode I’m starting a new series on the topic of “how to” because of your responses. So many women sent in questions about how to meal plan, homeschool, organize, figure out a side hustle and more. Today’s episode is about how to homeschool and the process of making that decision along with many others. In the end, stick to the core things and enjoy the process instead of going in with high expectations like I did.  The combination of the many how tos in life are basically us finding confidence, balance and discernment from the Lord on how to be mothers and females. (2:09) Questions to ask yourself to help decide if homeschooling is a good fit for your family and different considerations when making this decision. (5:22) Write down why your family is choosing to homeschool because there will be days when you will really need to read it again and affirm your decision. (9:37) How to pick curriculum for your homeschool and the various options available (16:20) Instead of starting homeschool with high expectations, connect with your why for homeschooling and use that as the deciding factor of what to expect. (12:03)   This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode I celebrate the listeners who continue to show up and listen to the show, thank you. As well as share a family update as we wrap up our school year and transition into summer. There are also a few fun business opportunities that I share. Thanks for listening to the update as I'm navigating where I want to go and what I want to do. A brief history on how the social media content creator journey began with an Instagram account created in secret. (3:46) We were recently published in Better Homes and Gardens, cottage style, and our Airbnb, crate and cabin. If you want to check that out. It was featured on 10 page spreads. (5:41) Three months into life with our baby girl I wish everyone could adopt a child of a different race just so they could feel what we feel. (8:21) As we wind down the school year we're just looking forward to family time and not constantly feeling like we have to keep up with school. (11:17) I'm at a cusp in my business and the way forward has several different options and we’re praying through what is next. (12:42) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode I wrap up the five part series on marriage. Today I focus on our current season, cultivating togetherness, and we are teammates, partners and friends. I share how our friendship is foundational to our marriage in this season of working through day to day life together; as parents, business owners, and a couple. As we end this series I think it's simply important to remember that we will ebb and flow in and out of different seasons in our lives. And by listening to my vulnerability and Richard’s vulnerability in our marriage we can inspire, encourage, and hopefully give you some jumping off points for your own marriage.  It’s valuable to have a teammate while raising kids and maintaining a home then bitterness starts to set in. (4:24) Learning to recognize your spouse, what they're good at and not blaming them for what they're not capable of doing or not gifted in is really important. (9:02) If you aren’t friends with your spouse then return to the discovery phase of marriage and unearth what attracted you to them. (12:14) One of the big issues with marriages getting stuck and needing to go back to the growth & discovery stage. (15:28) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode, I open up about a time in my marriage when I questioned if we were going to make it. Today I share the different reasons I ended up in this space and how I worked through it. The reason for my vulnerability is to encourage you to keep going and find ways to get through it. Also, give yourself peace, patience and forgiveness as you seek help and heal through this season of marriage.  If you’re struggling in your marriage it’s great to rehash where you were and are, then how you got out of it and remember the good that can come from the bad. (5:11) One way to work through a survival season is to recognize the problem, write it down, talk to your spouse or a counselor to help process what’s going on. (8:13) When you are ready to give up, take time to cool down, focus on yourself, and choose to not leave and give up before then. (11:54) Inside our heads we create a narrative of he never, she never instead of focusing on what he does, she does which stifles out the good. (16:22) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode, I dive into the time of marriage where you look at one another and realize you don’t really recognize the other person, some call it the Seven Year Itch. Today I share my own discovery of not relying on my husband to solve everything, and there are great resources to help me heal, grow, and learn in life. I encourage you to focus on where you are now, identify how you can grow, set those goals and plans for one another.  What it feels like to get to a place in marriage when you realize it’s for life and you have to figure out how to work life with this person. (3:04) It's okay to look at your husband, as a teammate, as a friend, as a lover, as a roommate. I think sometimes we all can relate to those feelings. (4:06) Being in a season of friendship with your spouse is good because friendship lasts when everything else fades away. (8:46) In this season there is a choice, to either cross the bridge and continue building a life together or jump ship. (11:14) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode Mr. Crate and Cottage, Rachel’s husband Richard, takes over hosting and shares part two of the current season on marriage. Today he opens up about how carefree their life was for years after being married and big transitions took place in his late twenties, early thirties. His advice is to make the best of life when it does change and there’s no need to freak out. Embrace it.  Richard takes over hosting the podcast to share about the second part in the Marriage Series, all about growth and discovery as a person and a couple. (1:06) The season of marriage after the honeymoon is carefree, you’re both working to make money to live and enjoy all the small things in life. (3:20) A transition point in growth occurred in his late 20s to early 30s where Richard started having grown up experiences and anxiety really kicked in. (5:23) His advice for anyone who hasn’t experienced the transition is to hone in on what’s happening in life right now, think outside the box of where your future will end up. (11:06) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode I introduce a new series, Seasons of Marriage. I’m going to talk with my mom and she’s going to share some advice, I may even bring Richard on so we can share what we’ve been through. Today I’m going to introduce this series and begin with the “over the moon” season, where the feelings first start. I hope this series will be an encouragement from a real vulnerable marriage. Even if our marriage journeys are different, we can all relate to the over the moon, falling in love phase where we remember what attracted us to our spouse. (3:02) The reason you were attracted to your partner or felt connected doesn’t go away but over time it does get fuzzy and we need to take time to erase that fuzz. (7:31) Take time to create a conversation around what you fell in love with, rewatch that show that made you laugh, talk about what you wish for, and rekindle your connection. (9:23) Try to remember where you both came from in the beginning, why you fell in love with one another, and tell your spouse. (10:34) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode, I talk about the thankless job of motherhood. I’m sharing a few articles and verses that have encouraged me in this newborn season. While parenting is a job where the work goes unnoticed, we can take moments to encourage one another. Remember, you're working for the Lord rather than for people, the Lord will reward us, and we're accomplishing what he wants for the kingdom as these children's mothers. Today I want to encourage you with a few articles I've read and some verses that stick out to me for these thankless seasons. (1:54) A scary mommy article about parenting, a job in which the work is often done when no one is looking and goes unnoticed at the time it's being done. (5:22) Parenting is not completely thankless, it is completely selfless. It requires giving so much of oneself, often doing so in secret. (8:01) We are doing Kingdom work no matter what age a child is; for these little babies, grown children, teenagers and adult parents. (11:00) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode, I talk about how to overcome burnout. We are in the newborn phase again, after several years out of it, and life works differently. I’m sharing 8 different tips to help limit burnout and allow yourself to reconnect with the life you are living today. There is always a solution to any problem and today I share my insecurities and burnout to encourage you to make positive changes in your home.  If I can accomplish something I feel good about myself but with a newborn life moves slower and lack of sleep impacts everything, which led me to burnout. (2:00) There are adjustments I’m making to juggle my business, growing family, and responsibilities that require me to change what I was doing before. (4:09) Whether it is with work, daily routine, or even kids, my number one tip for burnout is to walk away and get a change of scenery for a little while. (8:39) Tip number two for burnout is do something meaningful, get outside of yourself and do something for someone else that is not part of your family. (12:43) Another way to reduce burnout is to lower your expectations and reduce the amount of pressure you’re putting on yourself each day. (14:40) Change your pace or routine, sometimes we need to reroute things in order to not feel burnout. (15:50) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In this episode, I share five different ways to love yourself and teach your body and brain to care for yourself. If we begin to treat ourselves better then maybe we can be kinder to others, and that would be a great goal for 2021.  The first way to love yourself is to stop saying negative things inside your mind and begin retraining the brain how to think positively toward ourselves. (3:09) Pause and look in the mirror, straight into your eyes, and focus on past achievements and celebrate what you have today. (4:30) Take time to write down all your accomplishments from the week, whether big or small, and remember what you have done. (6:30) Even though it can be hard, find time each day to do something you love because it’s one way to teach your brain and body to love yourself. (8:20) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode, I explore the importance of self forgiveness and the gift we give ourselves when we accept and give forgiveness. I’m sharing an Oprah Magazine article that resonated with me and I take some time to walk you through the different steps of forgiveness, because I want you to break free from the shame and guilt keeping you stuck in the past.   Many of us struggle to forgive ourselves from past mistakes, decisions, and situations which prevents us from moving forward with our lives. (1:20) An article on how to forgive ourselves really resonated with me and I walk you through the different steps. (2:11) Guilt is an emotion that teaches us something, it is the first step in the healing journey and serves a purpose. (3:01) There are several tools to assist in forgiveness, whether writing it out for someone or visualizing how forgiveness will feel. (5:08) Self compassion is another piece of forgiveness, talking to yourself as you would a friend because healing can not happen in a guilty shameful environment. (11:25) Article referenced by Caitlin Abber: https://www.oprahmag.com/life/a26028888/how-to-forgive-yourself/   This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode, I am sharing a little bit about what our family has been up to in January and my goals for 2021. I encourage you to take time to create your intentions for the year and allow yourself the opportunity to let the creative juices flow and discover your next adventure.  In January we welcomed our new baby girl into the family and are enjoying the presence of this new life in our house. (1:19) Setting intentions for the new year is part of who I am and this year is no different, but I will be carrying with me the 6 lessons I learned in 2020 I shared on the last episode. (3:07) Personal goals, and some decor and design goals Richard and I have for events and more spec houses. (5:00) The importance of finding time to develop creativity and plan your week without distraction. (8:08) Why it’s important to write down your goals and set intentions even if you don’t reach them. (12:00) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In this episode, I am giving a recap of the year and with a send off of love. I’m taking the month of December off for good reason to rest rejuvenate and to prepare for a big event in our life coming soon. I know 2020 has taught you something too. Ask yourself what that is. We all have to collectively find the good in this year. There are always positive outcomes even in negativity and I believe we have to focus on that.  I’m praying you can take some time to reflect truly on what you want next year to look like and what this year of ups and downs has taught you. Thank you as always for supporting me and my family and this business. I’m praying you all have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. See y'all in 2021!!   This episode is sponsored by Ruggable. Did you know there is such a thing as a washable rug? I sure didn't know and I can't tell you the countless amount of money I wasted on buying rugs only for them to be ruined by dog accidents and kids spills. Let me let you in on a little secret, Ruggable Rugs, a washable rug that will save you money and reduce the stress in your home. Simply remove the top layer rug, throw it in any washer and tumble dry or lay flat. then reattach the rug to the rug pad and voila. A clean rug every time. I promise you will love this company with so many options and sizes to choose from. There isn't a Ruggable rug that you won't like or that won't fit your style. Ruggable has been so kind to give my listeners 10% off your entire order through Christmas with code funcrate10 check out my ruggable.com/funcrate10 for your discount and get yourself that washable Ruggabble rug. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode, I share a Forbes article by Kathy Caprino I read several years ago that continues to be relevant even today. In response to the eight most desired things, I share how I navigate those wants in my daily life. Today I want you to know that it is possible to rise up and change an area that rings true for you today.  Happiness was the number one thing people desired most and unfortunately people  don't know themselves well enough to identify what makes them happy. (4:17) Take time to understand your money story and the habits around spending so that it’s possible to have the second most desired thing, money. (8:53) Freedom requires following your own authentic values and beliefs, building strong boundaries, and forging your own path in life and work. (8:53) In today’s chaotic world the only way to have peace is by committing to take time and build in daily practices to support that. (15:03) Even if your personal and family life bring you joy, if what you're doing in your day to day work doesn't, you can't help but feel joyous. (15:03) If you're searching for balance, then revisit your priorities because if you meet your priorities, you will feel more balanced. (19:03) To live up to our highest potential, which leads to fulfillment, we have to leave our comfort zones behind. (19:03) Confidence comes from acknowledging our own magnificence, not shying away from it and deciding to learn about the topics and ideas that interest us. (23:44) Read the article here: https://www.forbes.com/sites/kathycaprino/2016/05/24/the-top-8-things-people-desperately-desire-but-cant-seem-to-attain/?sh=4853fec97086  This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode, I continue to open up about my journey with fear and anxiety by sharing 5 ways I’m coping that may help you where you are today. At the end I share a resource I have found helpful. Listen in and be encouraged to find ways to cope with your anxiety and fears. In response to people reaching out about coping with anxiety, these are 5 different coping methods used to manage fear. (2:19) First thing to do is intentionally turn off the noise, like IG, FB, all news channels, so that you can be present with those around you. (7:06) Another way to cope with fear is to gain knowledge by writing down your thoughts then ask questions and learn from trusted sources. (8:25) Only you can make health a priority: pay attention to sleep patterns, schedule the doctor appointment, move your body, and cut out the excess. (11:25) Find someone who listens, like a counselor, and say the thoughts out loud so that someone who does it for a living can ask you good, insightful questions. (15:00) Truly forgive yourself for things you've done in the past and let go of something so that you can embrace the person you were created to be. (16:18) Encouragement from Dr. Weeks is to not run from your fear. Instead acknowledge it, live in it, and know what's coming from it and you’re more likely to cope with it. (18:16) Listen in to the 16 do’s and dont’s of coping with fear and anxiety. (18:57) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode, I am sharing five ways to cultivate a legacy in your home. No matter what life stage you are in it is possible to create a space of comfort and safety. Listen in and be encouraged to find ways to nurture the legacy within your four walls. Your legacy of home is up to you to create; you have the ability and the responsibility to pass on a wonderful legacy to those you love. (1:57) The home is a sacred space where memories are created, personalities are cultivated, privileges are earned and lessons are learned. (3:03) No matter what feelings our home evokes now, we can create a foundation on solid rock and cultivate a new legacy. (3:24) A home is built around love, forgiveness, anger, intimacy, joy, sorrow, and so many more feelings, which is an intangible piece of creating the legacy. (5:41) One way we cultivate our legacy of faith is having scripture around the home so the words are imprinted on our hearts. (6:24) There are simple ways to create comfort through smells, textiles, and spaces in the home. (11:08) We created a legacy rhythm of conversation with our children that allows us to give forgiveness, to seek out trust, and to share hopes. (13:20) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode, I am sharing a topic that has been on my heart and importance of female friendships in our lives. As we get older, it can be harder to have those close friendships and be there for them when they need us in the midst of our busy lives. I hope this episode encourages you to reach out, encourage your friends and check on those who may be hurting.  Listening to Jen Hatmaker share a story of elephants inspired today’s conversation about the vision of female friendship. (1:05) Female elephants close ranks when a mama elephant gives birth so she and the baby are protected from predators during a vulnerable time. (1:47) Sometimes we feel vulnerable and want to share it with others so they can pick us up. (1:47) It can be difficult to step out of our circle and reach out to others in a time of vulnerability but also when we see friends in difficult seasons. (1:47) I want to be the friend that sees those that are vulnerable and hurting and be brave enough to stand up and say, I've got your back. (6:46) The story of elephants wraps up with the young elephants copying their mamas, which is a lesson that our children are watching how we show up in friendships. (8:47) Don’t hesitate to nurture your friendships: encourage your friends, love on your friends, seek out new friendships and be a better friend yourself. (12:36) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode, I am encouraging fellow mamas in the daily battle we face today as we juggle all the things. I share with you one of my mentors that guides me in my journey and brings me hope and perspective. Today I want you to know that your sacrifice is seen and known and making a difference. Encouragement especially for the mamas out there during this season from a favorite author, Sally Clarkson. (1:27) The devotion centered around mamas as the wonderful heroes because they take on this enormous task of subduing and civilizing your home. (2:08) An open and honest account of life as a mother and choosing to not spiral into the negative thoughts and feelings in the face of all the demands. (4:25) One habit that helps provide perspective is writing down the “why” of a decision or commitment. (8:23) Part of enjoying the journey is to try and not fill your plate so much that you forget to see and hear what your family is asking. (9:20) Remember, if it feels hard and difficult that’s because it is. Motherhood is a battle and we are armed and ready. The work we do in the mundane really does matter. (11:02) This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/

In today’s episode, I am sharing my experience with anxiety throughout my life and opening up the discussion on mental health. I am talking about why I believe there should not be any shame around taking medication for anxiety and depression, and my journey to try more natural and holistic remedies. Richard and I both deal with anxiety, you can hear each of our stories in Episode 10 and 11 where we share each of our unique journeys.  Genetics and environment factor into mental health, as well as life events. It’s important to take note of those things in order to understand yourself, or a loved one.  It took time to realize the anxiety stemmed from health concerns due to childhood experiences with unexpected losses.  The love hate relationship with time; not enough, needing to work harder, so that more is accomplished in an effort to have all experiences in one small lifetime.  Simple explanation of what SSRIs are (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and how they can help with anxiety. How a doctor explained my body in a way that helped me break free from shame After a few weeks on Lexapro, getting through the side effects, it was like a light went on and the nervous feelings, irritations and worries went away. When going off a medication it’s critical to wean yourself slowly to help with side effects and make the transition smoother.  The next part of my journey and researching natural remedies for anxiety.  In the end, whether taking medication, natural supplements, or both, asking for help is important and there is no shame in your mental health journey. This episode is sponsored by She Made Herself a Home, my book that will help you discover how to create a home that is inviting, beautiful, functional and uniquely personal all while staying on budget. It is a home decor planner that features beautiful photography from more than 40 real homes and contributions from other successful home decor bloggers. I promise it will make home designing an exciting, un-intimidating process. My hope is that these pages spark your passions, guide you to create spaces you love and most importantly give you the confidence to try something new. Anyone, no matter age, status, income level or past can make a home for herself and those she loves. Because no one has to break the bank to bring new life, intention and purpose to a home. You can buy your copy anywhere books are sold or at crateandcottage.com/book. Connect with me on Instagram at @crateandcottage Visit my website: crateandcottage.com/