281. How We Went to NYC on a Budget

I am beyond thrilled to chat with today's guest who is actually a threepeat guest, Jeannie Cunnion! Jeannie is back in the studio to talk about her new devotional book, Closer to God: A 40-day Pursuit of God's Personal Presence. If you know Jeannie's work, then you know that her writing is anything but superficial. She has a remarkable ability to push us deeper into our relationship with the Lord, and this new devotional promises just that - no fluff, only profound questions that challenge and inspire us to grow closer to God.In this episode, Jeannie shares her journey, drawing from her previous book Don't Miss Out, which explores the vital role of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Her new devotional continues this exploration by guiding us to question "Who is the Holy Spirit?" and "What does true intimacy with God look like?" These are just a few of the 40 questions which she discusses, ultimately designed to stir our spirits and deepen our hunger for a more vibrant life with God.Jeannie also opens up about overcoming barriers to intimacy with God such as resisting the Holy Spirit or being caught in a performance mindset with God. She emphasizes the freedom and refreshment found in daily repentance and how it cultivates intimacy with God. Jeannie and I also discuss practical ways to practice God's presence in our everyday lives, from washing dishes to carpooling, recognizing that God's presence isn't limited to just extraordinary moments.Whether you're new to Christianity or a long-time believer looking to deepen your relationship with God, this episode offers invaluable insights into making God's presence feel personal and transformative in your daily life, so join us as we dive into these themes and more, and be sure to pick up a copy of Closer to God!In This Episode[0:33] - Jeannie's new devotional book Closer to God challenges readers with deep, reflective questions.[2:48] - The Holy Spirit stirs a deeper hunger for God within us, Jeannie explains.[4:15] - God's presence is for everyday moments, not just mountaintop or valley experiences.[6:47] - Jeannie points out that understanding the Holy Spirit's role removes barriers to intimacy with God.[10:22] - Embracing repentance, rather than performance, helps cultivate closeness with God.[11:24] - Repentance is refreshing and transformative and is not meant for reprimand.[14:15] - Jeannie states that practicing God's presence involves daily conversation and reading His Word.[17:45] - Pursuing holiness by following Jesus invites abundant life and peace.[21:10] - I add that worship and community help us remember God's faithfulness in difficult times.[24:09] - Choosing God in daily moments leads to strength and hope.[27:50] - I observe how faith grows through cultivating intimacy, repentance, and obedience.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineThe Crystal Paine Show - 3. The Secret to Being a Happier MomThe Crystal Paine Show - 136. Don’t Miss Out on This Superpower!BooksCloser to God: A 40-day Pursuit of God’s Personal Presence by Jeannie CunnionDon’t Miss Out: Daring to Believe Life Is Better with the Holy Spirit by Jeannie CunnionSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out Hero Bread and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: www.hero.co* Check out Seed : https://seed.com/CRYSTALAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

After knowing Jesse since I was 9 years old (I'm 43 now!), I just found out something I had no idea about him. We share the funny story on the podcast. I'm honestly still so shocked that I just discovered this!!We also dive into some really fun listener feedback, with one of you pointing out how I had incorrectly called beef you buy for the freezer cow and that turned into a fun discussion on things beef and cattle-related!Our family plans also took an unexpected turn recently when a storm rescheduled Silas’s baseball tournament, clashing with our trip to Silver Dollar City. We came up with plan B which split up the family, but despite the big changes of plans and what I had hoped for and envisioned, both groups had fantastic experiences. Jesse and the boys had a memorable baseball weekend, and I got some special time with the girls and their boyfriends. It was a great reminder that even if you have a completely different experience than you had expected and planned for, you can lead to beautiful memories!We also touch on early voting and how we try to include our kids in these civic duties is so important. It's been so heartwarming to see how invested Kathrynne has become in politics -- and how she's gotten many opportunities we would have loved at her age, that she never sought out but have been so good and exciting!In This Episode[0:35] - My recent discovery about Jesse that surprised me so much![6:11] - Astigmatism and how struggling to remember right and left causes uncomfortable eye doctor visits.[7:30] - We share some listener feedback on cows vs. beef.[10:23] - Does the age of cows affect meat quality? [11:06] - A listener suggests roasting beets, and I recount a fire alarm causing the arrival of a fire truck.[13:46] - Hear a story from a listener about a fireproof deep freeze keeping rotten meat safe after a wildfire.[15:33] - I talk about a Silver Dollar City family trip with the older girls and their boyfriends, which proved wonderful.[16:54] - Storms rescheduled a baseball tournament, leading to special family weekends and a successful trip![19:08] - I enjoyed creating special memories with Kierstyn.[21:05] - We voted early recently due to potential long lines on voting day.[23:19] - Even though I enjoy politics, I have avoided running for office due to past stressful experiences.[26:04] - Kathrynne is politically active and has received many unexpected opportunities.[27:36] - Jesse discusses how Kathrynne took anxiety-filled steps into political involvement, which led to personal growth.[28:18] - I recount how Kathrynne gained confidence from a challenging training experience, opening new opportunities.[31:04] - Jesse explains that we encourage our kids to step out of their comfort zones and know their values.[31:28] - I am very supportive of Kathrynne's small steps as character-building for future opportunities!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out Hero Bread and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: www.hero.co* Check out Seed : https://seed.com/CRYSTALAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

One of our big goals for 2024 was to go on an overnighter just the two of us (Jesse and me) — something we hadn’t done in 5ish years!! We weren’t sure if we were going to be able to make it work with all the moving parts it would require, but WE DID IT a few weeks ago.It was the best trip and, in this episode, we share all about it -- why we chose NYC, how we did this trip on a budget, and how the trip more than exceeded our expectations!We discuss why this trip was so special, from navigating the city’s public transportation to making use of loyalty points for our hotel right in the heart of Times Square. The city was bustling, the weather was perfect, and Central Park on a Sunday afternoon was such a fun experience!We packed so much into 36 hours, from exploring Fifth Avenue to enjoying a meal at the boathouse overlooking a beautiful pond, and for the first time in years, we truly and fully relaxed. It was so good for our souls!This trip wasn’t just a getaway; it was a reminder of how important it is to prioritize our marriage and ourselves, so join us as we look back on this unforgettable trip and share some tips for anyone planning a quick yet meaningful escape to the Big Apple!In This Episode[0:35] - I am excited for Jesse and I to be talking about our recent trip to NYC![1:32] - Jesse discusses a nonfiction book called The Pledge to America by Drago Dzieran, which details the author's experiences with socialism and immigration.[4:33] - I discuss the book From Strength to Strength by Arthur C. Brooks, which focuses on success and happiness in later life.[9:09] - Inspired by an airport meal, I share how I discovered I enjoy fresh beets.[12:17] - We also laugh about me wanting to have chickens -- only they need to be noiseless and invisible and not need any care! :)[15:06] - All about our trip to NYC.[18:29] - Jesse describes previous short trips to NYC and navigating public transportation with family.[20:19] - I share NYC's cost-effective options for couples and advise against using public transportation if you're alone at night.[22:28] - How we got our hotel for free -- right in the heart of Times Square.[25:26] - We really appreciated uninterrupted time together![27:26] - I express gratitude and reflect on the smooth return trip amidst a busy Prime Week and hurricane concerns.[30:01] - The kids successfully managing at home during our trip was also incredibly reassuring![31:58] - Jesse experiences relaxation and health benefits from the New York City trip.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksThe Pledge to America: One Man’s Journey from Political Prisoner to U.S. Navy SEAL by Drago Dzieran1984 by George OrwellAnimal Farm by George OrwellSlow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout by Cal NewportFrom Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life by Arthur C. BrooksSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out Hero Bread and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: www.hero.co* Check out Seed : https://seed.com/CRYSTALAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

I'm welcoming back a repeat guest this episode - Jennifer Pepito! Jennifer is the author of Habits for a Sacred Home: 9 Practices From History to Anchor and Restore Modern Families, and I have had the privilege of reading her insightful book which really resonated with me and challenged me to set up better habits and rhythms in our life!Jennifer brings a wealth of experience, having homeschooled her seven children for 27 years! In this episode, we talk about the joys and challenges of motherhood she's experienced and what it's been like as her children have transitioned into adulthood.We explore the significance of establishing habits that create a peaceful home environment and the importance of being present with our kids, even as they grow independent. Jennifer shares her thoughts on finding balance, letting go of perfectionism, and nurturing our children's development in a world that can feel chaotic at times. She emphasizes the need for mothers to have a solid sense of identity in Christ which allows them to stress less about things that don't matter and not try to find their identity in their children's behavior or choices.Throughout the conversation, Jennifer also offers practical advice on creating daily routines that encourage connection and joy within the family. Plus, we touch on the delicate balance between guiding our children and allowing them the freedom to learn from their experiences!Whether you’re navigating the early years of parenting, raising teens, and sending your kids into adulthood, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement, so please join Jennifer and me as we discover how small, intentional changes can lead to significant growth for both moms and their families!In This Episode[0:35] - I welcome back repeat guest Jennifer Pepito!​​[1:24] - Jennifer shares a little about her family and her new book, Habits for a Sacred Home.[4:26] - It's important to recognize both losses and gains when transitioning through life stages.[5:36] - Jennifer advises young moms to focus on their identity in Christ and being present with their children.[8:19] - Parenting teens requires maintaining values and visualizing positive outcomes for them.[11:21] - Jennifer talks about showing grace without compromising values when children make choices we disagree with.[14:48] - Younger moms: accept imperfection and focus on consistency and joy in parenting.[17:59] - After experiencing a gap between older and younger kids, I have recognized the need for intentional routines.[19:33] - Jennifer reflects on older kids caring for younger ones and emphasizes the importance of being committed to faithfulness.[22:12] - I highlight the benefits of having a morning routine that starts the day positively and intentionally.[24:48] - Jennifer's book connects Saint Benedict's rules to impactful historical women such as Edith Schaeffer and their ordinary lives.[27:29] - I recall a lesson from a book about creating beauty in small ways to bring stability to chaotic lives.[29:32] - Jennifer finds peace amidst chaos by reflecting on Psalm 37 and trusting God for better times ahead.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineThe Crystal Paine Show - 180. Why You Should Read Aloud with Your KidsBooksHabits for a Sacred Home: 9 Practices from History to Anchor and Restore Modern Families (Helping Moms Experience Peace & Return to Simple Daily Rhythms from Historic Christians like St. Benedict) by Jennifer PepitoSelfish Reasons To Have More Kids by Bryan CaplanThe Hidden Art of Homemaking by Edith SchaefferSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out Hero Bread and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: www.hero.co* Check out Seed : https://seed.com/CRYSTALAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Join us this week as I discuss my recent 43rd birthday! In this week’s episode, I’m diving into my recent birthday reflections, the wisdom I've gained from embracing my wrinkles, and the unexpected lessons from our recent freezer incident. After celebrating turning 43, I've been contemplating the importance of aging and how every wrinkle tells a unique story about my journey, family, and faith.While our freezer mishap felt like a significant inconvenience, it pales in comparison to the challenges faced by those affected by Hurricane Helene. I share insights from my sister’s harrowing experience during the flood, where her neighborhood was cut off from the outside world for days. It highlighted the importance of emergency preparedness and community support in times of crisis, prompting me to rethink what it truly means to be prepared for unexpected events.We also discuss the value of having emergency supplies, such as non-perishable food, water, and cash on hand. These practical tips are vital, especially when local services are disrupted. Amidst this serious conversation, I share some lighter moments, including a humorous driving mishap that served as a reminder of my tendency to handle challenges alone. Tune in as we navigate through both the significant and the trivial, weaving in heartfelt stories and valuable lessons that encourage us to embrace life’s uncertainties with grace and preparedness. Join me on this journey of self-reflection and community resilience!In This Episode[0:54] - Reflecting on birthday goals, I compare personal challenges with greater ones like Hurricane Helene.[2:57] - Hear how my sister's neighborhood's struggles with isolation and resourcefulness during a flood.[5:14] - I emphasize the importance of emergency preparedness, including having cash and non-perishable food.[7:33] - I share community resilience stories after crises and listener responses to our freezer incident.[11:21] - We once lost milk due to a freezer cleanout, and I discuss insurance for food spoilage.[13:26] - Listen as I share a funny story about struggling with parking and reflect on self-reliance lessons.[16:24] - I recount having scratched my car in the garage and learning about asking for help when needed.[19:20] - I reflect on lessons learned from mishaps and encourage seeking help and being spiritually open.[21:45] - I turned 43 recently, and I embrace aging as a gift.[23:39] - I have set ambitious goals for reading and unplugged hours as part of my focus on health.[25:23] - In addition, I strive to limit phone use and read more, aiming for better bedtime habits.[27:28] - I am so excited about my goals for the coming year and invite you to share your stories!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksThe Unplugged Hours: Cultivating a Life of Presence in a Digitally Connected World by Hannah BrencherSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out Hero Bread and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: www.hero.co* Check out Seed : https://seed.com/CRYSTALAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Meghan Ryan Asbury was in studio last week to record this week's episode all about the topic of her new book: You Are Not Behind: Building a Life You Love Without Having Everything You Want! We all encounter this feeling at some point in our live: the sense of inadequacy that can stem from our lives not aligning with expectations we had for where we'd be, expectations we feel like we're not living up to from others, or just the general sense that everyone else has it more together or their lives are moving along at a stronger/faster/better pace than ours.Meghan shares her journey of writing this book during a pivotal time when her own life felt anything but perfect and where so many dreams and hopes she'd had for the future were not coming to fruition.In this conversation, we discuss the detrimental impact of comparison and how it permeates our thoughts and influences our sense of contentment. Her insights resonate deeply, especially when she reminds us that the grass isn't always greener on the other side. We explore the importance of recognizing our unique journeys and the necessity of grieving lost hopes, which can ultimately lead us to greater healing.Whether you’re in your twenties, thirties, forties, or beyond, this episode offers wisdom for anyone feeling behind in life. Meghan encourages us to embrace our current season, invest in community, and cultivate gratitude amidst the unknowns of the future.In This Episode[0:35] - I am talking today with Meghan Ryan Asbury, author of the book You Are Not Behind.​​[1:51] - Meghan's book journey began by questioning why people feel behind.[4:28] - I share how this book is relevant for all ages.[6:42] - Comparison is often a root cause of feeling behind.[9:46] - Hear how Meghan confronted her belief that obedience guarantees happiness.[11:50] - Meghan accepts that the Bible defines good as singleness, suffering, and poverty, not the American Dream.[13:16] - Coping mechanisms for happiness only work temporarily.[16:41] - It's so important to allow yourself to grieve so that you can heal.[19:37] - Meghan holds both pain and hope together, trusting God's promises despite feeling disappointed.[22:28] - Find hope in God's promise to make all things new and comfort her pain.[25:31] - Community, argues Meghan, helps combat feelings of being behind by fostering connection and healing.[27:21] - Vulnerability and effort lead to meaningful connections, even in different life seasons.[29:37] - Meghan trusts that God will provide and rejects a scarcity mindset when comparing to others.[32:42] - Meghan reflects on past choices, trusting God's faithfulness while living fully and hoping for the future.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksYou Are Not Behind: Building a Life You Love Without Having Everything You Want by Meghan Ryan AsburySocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out Hero Bread and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: www.hero.co* Check out Seed : https://seed.com/CRYSTALAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

This week, Jesse and I bring you a mix of newsy updates, a now-funny story about a freezer disaster, and intriguing tidbits that spark some lively discussions! We reflect on Jesse's recent 44th birthday, diving into how the world has changed since he was born at just 27 weeks. The advancements in technology are astounding!We also explore the topic of re-using birthday candles, inspired by a recent Instagram post I share that invoked a plethora of comments and opinions. This light-hearted conversation spirals into a discussion about frugality and the limits some of us draw in our quest to save money. I invite you to write in with your own thoughts because I am curious: are there things that you would never do just to save a buck? I’ll share my own, and I would love to hear yours!We also have some updates from our InsideTracker experience, including a tip about vitamin D for Jesse and how I'm upping my iron. I share my excitement about a highly-anticipated book I just picked up from the library - Kristin Hannah’s novel The Women. I also provide some updates on my thoughts on Hannah Brencher’s The Unplugged Hours, which I mentioned last episode. As always, we'd love to hear your thoughts an input after you listen!In This Episode[0:35] - It's time for a hodge-podge episode filled with all sorts of fun perspectives and stories.[1:53] - Do you reuse birthday candles? A question inspired by a meme I shared on Instagram.[3:57] - After having glued a birthday candle back together, I reflect on when frugality goes too far.[6:13] - Are there people who enjoy spending money?[9:24] - Jesse's premature birth story.[11:29] - Jesse was in the NICU for a couple of months. We talk about how being premature impacted him for years to come.[15:47] - A listener suggests that Jesse take vitamin K2 with vitamin D.[17:42] - My favorite protocol for increasing iron.[19:28] - Hear about how, excited about a tax refund, Jesse and I once bought meat from a local farm.[22:46] - Our freezer stopped, resulting in spoiled meat upon our return from a trip![24:52] - We had to refreeze everything, which worsened the smell, and eventually gave the freezer away.[26:29] - I recently got The Women by Kristin Hannah from the library and am excited to read it![27:49] - The Unplugged Hours by Hannah Brencher challenges readers to stay unplugged for 1,000 hours a year.[29:44] - I often feel distracted by political news, and The Unplugged Hours has inspired me to limit my phone usage habits.[32:37] - My goal includes unplugged time throughout the day.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineInsideTrackerInstagram Post About Birthday CandlesInstagram Post of Newborn JesseInstagram Reel with Hannah BrencherBooksThe Women: A Novel by Kristin HannahThe Unplugged Hours: Cultivating a Life of Presence in a Digitally Connected World by Hannah BrencherSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out Hero Bread and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: www.hero.co* Check out Seed : https://seed.com/CRYSTALAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

As we teased last week, Jesse and I discuss our latest experience with InsideTracker! I mentioned this on Instagram a few weeks ago when I got my bloodwork done and many people had questions on how it works and what we've learned from it.In this podcast, we talk about why we did the blood tests twice, what we've learned from it each time, and how we've changed our lives and habits as a result of each blood test. We discuss the surprising insights and actionable advice we received, from dietary adjustments to lifestyle changes, and how these recommendations have shaped our daily routines!This is a really fun episode where Jesse and I share lots of personal stories and insights, give each other a hard time for our quirks, and share about some fascinating books that we have been reading including Through the Eyes of a Lion by Levi Lusko and The Warrior Poet Way by John Lovell.In This Episode[0:35] - Jesse and I are talking all about our experiences with InsideTracker this week![1:32] - I recommend reading Through the Eyes of a Lion, a powerful book by Levi Lusko.[4:09] - Hear me tease Jesse about his phone usage and joke about his age![6:53] - Jesse shares how The Warrior Poet Way by John Lovell offers lessons on fatherhood and leadership.[9:15] - Jesse emphasizes the importance of preparation, sharing insights from the Navy SEAL book The Pledge to America.[11:46] - We move into discussing InsideTracker, with Jesse explaining that it's a tool for tracking health metrics and optimizing personal wellness plans.[12:59] - Hear how InsideTracker offers various testing options, including a full panel and home kits.[14:42] - I discuss the affordability of health tests compared to holistic doctor visits and highlight my own cortisol findings.[17:53] - After discovering elevated cortisol levels, I made some lifestyle changes such as more outdoor time and better sleep.[20:04] - I have overall improved my sleep habits and diet, focusing on reducing stress and feeling better overall.[22:14] - I recount retaking the test a year later to compare progress and track health improvements.[23:12] - Jesse describes how InsideTracker’s optimized range helps him identify areas to work on beyond normal results.[24:07] - I highlight the app’s daily recommendations like olive oil, high-intensity workouts, and sunshine.[27:47] - Hear how the test revealed my anemia, leading to dietary recommendations focused on iron and sleep.[29:41] - I commit to eating red meat daily, acknowledging its effectiveness in working against my anemia.[31:29] - I discuss dairy and bean intake suggestions from my results and invite feedback from listeners on similar programs!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineInsideTrackerBooksThrough the Eyes of a Lion: Facing Impossible Pain, Finding Incredible Power by Levi LuskoThe Unplugged Hours: Cultivating a Life of Presence in a Digitally Connected World by Hannah BrencherThe Pledge to America: One Man’s Journey from Political Prisoner to U.S. Navy SEAL by Drago DzieranThe Warrior Poet Way: A Guide to Living Free and Dying Well by John LovellSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out Hero Bread and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: www.hero.co* Check out Seed : https://seed.com/CRYSTALAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Welcome back! Listen in this week for a crazy story as Jesse and I take you behind the scenes of our recent adventure-packed week! We have been to a staggering SEVEN states in just NINE days, and I am so excited to share the chaos and joy that followed!From attending the CrossFit Games to exploring NYC, we have certainly had our fair share of logistical challenges and unforgettable moments, and we start by discussing the CrossFit Games, where our daughter's boyfriend RJ competed. It was a thrilling experience, and you will hear all about the highs and lows of cheering him on through a grueling series of events!I also recount the heartwarming and sometimes nerve-wracking moments of traveling with our kids, including their interactions with family and the surprising ease with which our youngest adapted to being away from home! After our CrossFit adventure, I also had the chance to jet off to New York City for a brief but magical trip. From Central Park’s beauty to the glamor of Fifth Avenue, I take you through the highlights of my NYC excursion and how it felt to step into a world so different from our usual routine!You will also definitely want to stay tuned until the very end of the episode for a sneak peek at our next episode in which we will be diving into the results of our recent InsideTracker blood test and explore some new breakfast ideas that we have been loving!In This Episode[0:35] - Jesse and I are recounting a busy week traveling to seven states, visiting CrossFit Games with our daughter Kaitlynn's boyfriend, RJ![3:54] - RJ is a skilled CrossFit athlete who reached the games by excelling through various competition stages.[5:47] - To attend the CrossFit games, we arranged complex travel plans, splitting family members across different flights and destinations.[7:08] - Hear how returning home involved challenges and uncertainties, but we managed to find good deals and made it work![9:24] - Leaving our younger children behind was hard, but we had a great time, and the kids adjusted well with grandparents' care.[12:01] - Despite being small, David handled the plane well, enjoying interactions with other passengers and having fun with beach balls at the event![14:01] - I discuss how the CrossFit staff was supportive and accommodating towards David.[17:47] - Jesse and I explain CrossFit for those unfamiliar with it.[20:09] - I really enjoyed seeing RJ's different sides, particularly his ability to compete while unwell and his interactions with our family.[21:19] - Jesse shares how we enjoyed their time with RJ's family and how the kids interacted like siblings.[22:40] - The competition brought together diverse nationalities, with 29 countries represented.[24:18] - I was moved by the athletes’ live streams and their supporters back home.[27:12] - After picking up the kids, I drove back and then flew to New York for a friend's award ceremony, enjoying LaGuardia’s unique atmosphere.[30:55] - Hear how, in New York City, I was amazed by Central Park's size and the vibrant local activity.[33:14] - I enjoyed a picturesque lunch at a famous boathouse in Central Park and felt that the experience was worth the high cost.[35:39] - While walking down Fifth Avenue, I admired the upscale stores and wondered about the clientele who shop there regularly.[37:36] - I stayed at a luxurious hotel in Times Square, feeling out of place among the well-dressed guests.[39:20] - The next episode will cover our Insidetracker blood test results and introduce a free breakfast ideas guide!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineCrossFit GamesInsideTrackerSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out Hero Bread and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: www.hero.co* Check out Seed : https://seed.com/CRYSTALAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Join me for this episode of the show as I sit down with the Alyssa Joy Bethke, who is here to encourage us with deep, soul-refreshing insight. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or just plain tired of the daily grind, Alyssa's insights might be exactly what you need to hear!In this episode, we take some time to dive into her new book, When Doing It All Is Undoing You: Meeting God in Your Unmet Expectations, a book filled with so much wisdom and conviction.Alyssa shares her journey of dealing with the pressures of life, from managing a family of five and the ups and downs of ministry to handling a massive move from the dreamy shores of Maui to Tennessee.What really stands out, however, is her vulnerability about the moment that she realized that she was coming undone, leading her to embrace a season of soul care – truly a powerful reminder that we don’t have to do it all and what to do when life feels to full but we know we need to step back, acknowledge our feelings, and tend to our hearts.Alyssa and I also explore her practical tips for processing emotions using the three Ns: Notice, Name, and Navigate, which Alyssa learned from her friend, trauma therapist Tristan Collins. Alyssa’s approach is both grounding and freeing, reminding us that it’s okay to slow down and listen to what our bodies are telling us.Tune in to discover how to find true refreshment for your soul and why it’s so important to let go of the illusion of control. This conversation is one you won’t want to miss, especially if you’re ready to step into a season of deep, transformative rest. In This Episode[0:35] - I have Alyssa Joy Bethke on the show today, author of the new book When Doing It All Is Undoing You![5:29] - Alyssa's husband went viral on YouTube, leading to an unexpected ministry.[9:13] - After moving, Alyssa experienced burnout while managing family life and homeschooling.[11:20] - Alyssa faced struggles with homeschooling, leading her to seek guidance and focus on soul-care.[14:33] - Soul-care and self-awareness is not just superficial activities.[17:26] - Alyssa reflects on the importance of lamenting, grieving, and moving through life's disappointments.[19:58] - Learn about a framework for self-awareness, emphasizing the connection between body, mind, and spirit.[22:33] - Notice, name, and navigate what you're feeling![23:45] - Chip Dodd's The Voice of the Heart explains that anxiety masks underlying fears and that naming these fears can break the cycle of anxiety.[25:43] - Alyssa asserts that fears often focus on the future, but God's love is constant.[28:01] - Many Christians mistakenly believe that following God should lead to a comfortable life free of grief or pain.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksWhen Doing It All Is Undoing You: Meeting God in Your Unmet Expectations by Alyssa Joy BethkeSatisfied: Finding Hope, Joy, and Contentment Right Where You Are by Alyssa Joy BethkeThe Voice of the Heart: A Call to Full Living by Chip DoddSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out Hero Bread and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: www.hero.co* Check out Seed : https://seed.com/CRYSTALAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands