Episode 175: Decmeber 5, 2024 In all the talk of Christmas being wonderful, there's also a huge sense of dread for mothers to get it all done. There are so many expectations of us during this time of the year. Carrie, Amy, and Sara discuss what lessons we have learned over the years. There are some rhythms and things we cut out in December to be more present and at peace.  We want to encourage you to do the same, so listen in! Key Moments: [1:48] You don’t have to be a Pinterest mom [7:21] Kids remember you being present and not stressed [9:41] Keep things the same to minimize decision ..read more

We often think of the three gifts the Wise Men gave to Jesus, but what about the intangible gifts of time, worship, and many others? Sara encourages us to consider the intangible gifts given to the Savior, and how we can offer these same ones to God and one another. This is a replay of Episode 66, which was originally aired on December 21, 2021. The original recording and transcript are available on our website HERE.  Key Moments: [0:59] Matthew 2:1-12 [3:19]  The intangible gifts from the wise men [5:17} What we can learn from the wise men Resources: Scripture mentioned: Matthew 2 ..read more

Carrie M. Holt dives into the complex emotions and challenges that come with being a special needs mom but even just a person experiencing suffering. Carrie draws parallels between running and suffering, the tension that arises from both experiences. Carrie shares her insights on how past suffering can strengthen our faith and prepare us for future sorrows. She gives some helpful mindset shifts by looking at it from God's perspective and offers strategies for dealing with suffering, including the practice of lament and finding purpose in pain.  Ep. 144; October 10, 2023 Key Moments: [1:40 ..read more

Sara met with the author and founder of We Are Brave Together, Jessica Patay, to discuss the beautiful things that come from being in a community of women caregivers. Jessica's community provides mentoring, meaningful conversations, and an authenticity that very few outside the caregiving community can replicate. She launched the nonprofit to support mothers of children with disabilities or mental health challenges. In her book, "Becoming Brave Together," she shares real stories of caregiving mothers to encourage understanding caregivers and their families and friends. Listen in to hear the in ..read more

Amy, Sara, and Carrie explore the pervasive feelings of loneliness and isolation that special needs parents experience. They discuss how their past focus on efficiency led to prioritizing tasks over relationships. Now, years into their special needs parenting lives, they need intentional connection. They discuss their strategies for pushing past isolation and loneliness towards deeper friendships and finding their worth in the Lord.  Join the conversation to learn how to nurture meaningful relationships and gracefully navigate the loneliness challenge. Episode 173: November 5, 2024 Key ..read more

The statistics are staggering. 90% of families with special needs feel ignored, unwelcomed, or devalued in churches. This is a huge number, and it shows how much work needs to be done to make churches more inclusive. The overall feeling of special needs families is that they want to feel wanted, accepted, and seen. Carrie, Amy, and Sara discuss the experiences of special needs families and how churches can change. Through church education, accommodations, and empathy, families could feel welcomed and cared for. Ep. 117; February 28, 2023 Key Moments: [4:37] Encouraging adoption, but unwilling ..read more

Carrie M. Holt sat down with Sandy Ramsey-Trayvick, author of the new book, "When Dreams Are Disrupted," to talk about Sandy’s mindset journey as she was forced to step into the role of caregiver for her child.  When a childhood illness changed the life of her son, it left her feeling helpless. In this episode, she shares what God revealed concerning her choices and how she’s been working with this new set of options God has given her. This conversation with Sandy will inspire you to choose an “un-disabled” mindset as you raise your child with disabilities or special needs and fill that r ..read more

In this episode, Sara shares stories from her personal journey of raising a child with disabilities, and how she found a deeper faith through her times of struggle. Through sharing her own experiences, she teaches a framework listeners can use to not only acknowledge pain but also shape it into fulfilling God’s purposes in their lives. Pain is inevitable. So we invite you to learn how to transform difficult circumstances into positive outcomes. This is an inspiring conversation that will leave you feeling encouraged to keep pressing forward. Episode 145: October 15, 2023 Key Moments: [2:30] Co ..read more

Long-term caregiving requires a mindset shift for our emotional life and our relationship with God and others. Carrie, Amy, and Sara discuss practical tips for surviving and thriving long term.  They discuss spiritual practices, practical habits to avoid burnout, and mindfulness to address the stressors and difficulties that come with caregiving. You’ll walk away with valuable tips you can begin incorporating into your life right now! Ep. 171, October 1, 2024 Key Moments: [6:39 ]  Our permanent situation and loss of dreams [13:25] Where was Jesus in that moment? [21:22] Caregiving is ..read more

In this episode, Amy Brown interviews Megan Amrich, author of the book 'Show Up and Bring Coffee: How to Support Your Friends with Disabled Children.' They discuss practical ways to support parents of children with disabilities, including being knowledgeable but not a know-it-all, being an extra set of hands, and making events and celebrations accessible. Megan emphasizes the importance of asking your friends what they need and being open to learning about their child's diagnosis. She also encourages friends to share their big news with sensitivity and understanding. Be knowledgeable, but ..read more