262. What Autism Taught Me About Limits & the Goodness of God (with Jessica Hurlbut)

This week’s episode dives into a topic that many of you have asked about - dating, especially as it relates to our kids. Jesse and I previously shared our general dating guidelines, but as some of our children have grown and started engaging in relationships, we have really had to put those principles into practice in real-time.I recently touched on our approach to dating on Instagram, and it sparked some lively (and controversial) conversations, so join Jesse and I today as we dive even deeper into our experiences and how we have adjusted our guidance while respecting our kids' privacy and autonomy.Jesse and I share our philosophy that dating should be intentional and mindful, and we have encouraged our kids to view dating as a way to get to know someone with the potential for a serious, long-term relationship, rather than just a casual activity. We discuss how we've balanced setting boundaries without being overly controlling, allowing our kids to make their own decisions while we support them through their journeys, having found that this approach not only respects their autonomy but also helps them develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships.We also touch upon the critical role of observing a potential partner's character over time and in various situations. Seeing how someone reacts in different scenarios, such as in competitive sports or when things don't go their way, can reveal a lot about their true nature, and this can be very important for making informed decisions about whether to pursue a deeper relationship.Be sure to also tune in to hear some quick personal updates, such as Father’s Day having been a bit of a rollercoaster, as we spent it in Mississippi for Silas's baseball tournament! I also share some interesting tidbits from our recent Olympic trials binge-watching and the amusing challenge of setting up our new coffee maker without reading the instructions! Don't forget to also check out a new freebie on our site with 60 quick meal ideas to avoid takeout - perfect for busy families!In This Episode[0:35] - Jesse and I are further discussing how we approach dating with our kids.[2:13] - Hear all about Jesse's exciting Father's Day![5:34] - I discuss an emergency with a feeding tube button for David, noting the mismatch in our emergency kit.[6:11] - Jesse clarifies that we had different-sized feeding tube buttons, leading to complications with the emergency replacement.[8:44] - I express gratitude for a nurse's help so that we could avoid an emergency room stay.[11:08] - I further reflect on a chaotic Father’s Day, including spilled drinks, unruly kids, and a new coffee maker gift. [13:26] - We have enjoyed watching the Olympic trials with our daughter Kierstyn, who is excited about various sports, especially gymnastics. [15:19] - Hear some listener feedback which includes a request for the audiobook library link.[16:52] - I share a listener's observation about the use of "sofa" versus "couch" in an earlier episode, noting it as an interesting regional preference.[19:28] - I have been reading and loving Natalie Runion's book The House That Jesus Built.[21:08] - Tune in for an exciting announcement about a freebie with 60 quick meal ideas to replace takeout![22:37] - Shifting gears toward today's main topic, we begin to discuss our views on teen dating, advocating for encouraging serious relationships and eventual marriage.[24:19] - It's important to start conversations about boundaries, respect for bodies and for others, and marriage early to guide children through dating as they grow older.[27:20] - I further explain our position toward dating ultimately for marriage.[31:00] - Jesse reflects on our daughters appreciating the intentional approach to dating with marriage in mind.[33:31] - It's crucial to observe potential partners in various contexts to gauge their true character before committing to a relationship.[35:10] - The other biggest thing is praying daily for our children's relationships, seeking God's guidance for clear direction.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineThe Crystal Paine Show - 137. Dating vs. Courtship: Our honest thoughtsThe Crystal Paine Show - 215. Hope and Healing from Church Hurt & DisappointmentEveryday Reading: How to Get Free Out-Of-State Library CardsBooksThe House That Jesus Built: Leading Our Churches Back to God’s Original Blueprint by Natalie RunionSocial 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 Armoire: armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com* Check out Seed and use my code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: seed.com* Get 15% off your order at happymammoth.com with code CRYSTAL at checkout.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Well, we recorded this episode at the latest time we've ever recorded a podcast episode -- past 10 p.m.! We found a window of time to record this before our family trip to Missouri to pick up Silas from camp, followed by his big baseball tournament in Mississippi!Jesse has been getting up at 6:00 a.m. to hit the CrossFit gym again, which has been a fantastic start to his days, although it certainly makes 10 p.m. feel like midnight! :)In a recent episode, Jesse and I discussed our goals for the summer, and I am thrilled to share that I'm making some great progress, especially with tracking everything on the Strides app! For the first time, my goal of spending 1,000 hours outside this year is in the green (summer and baseball make it much easier to be outdoors more!)I am also on track with my reading goal and am aiming to finish fifty books by the end of the summer, I have already finished almost ten, and it's only June! (Plus, my annual goal is seventy-five, so if I actually finish 50 this summer, I'll be well ahead of schedule!)Jesse and I also discuss how our slowed-down summer theme has allowed us more family movie nights. We watched The Boys in the Boat, a beautifully crafted film based on true events, and The Challenger: The Final Flight, a riveting documentary on Netflix about the 1986 Challenger disaster. I vaguely remember the tragedy from my childhood but learned a lot that I don't remember about the events surrounding it since I was so young.We also discuss something that resonated with me this summer - whether our routines and goals serve us or enslave us. For example, running 100 miles this summer has been a positive challenge for me. It’s a time for prayer, thinking, and even playing brain games like Connections from The New York Times while I run. It’s been beneficial rather than burdensome as it might be for some others. Asking ourselves as we create routines or set goals: "Will this serve us or enslave us?" Can be a really insightful question!In This Episode[0:36] - This is the latest that we’ve ever recorded an episode - it's after 10 p.m.![1:44] - Jesse’s morning routine of starting with a cold shower and workout significantly impacts his day.[3:36] - I am excited that my summer goals are progressing well, with significant improvement in outdoor hours![4:41] - An update on how I'm doing on my reading goals for the summer.[5:45] - We have enjoyed films like The Boys in the Boat and Challenger: The Final Flight this summer.[8:44] - I reflect on how watching Challenger: The Final Flight revealed surprising details and life lessons about decision-making.[11:31] - A listener thanks us for introducing Ruta Sepetys' books and recommends A Higher Call.[12:54] - I recently finished Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots by Mary Marantz which resonated with my journey of confronting perfectionism.[15:53] - A friend inspired me with her unscheduled summer approach, although I do need a routine to slow down.[17:24] - Do your routines serve you or enslave you?[19:09] - I've been enjoying playing the Connections game during my runs because it keeps my mind engaged.[20:41] - I personally cherish my time running, when I pray and think freely; it's liberating to me, not confining.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineStrides appStacy Myers’ Instagram PageConnections - Word GameFilmsThe Boys in the Boat (Amazon Prime)Challenger: The Final Flight (Netflix)BooksRuta Sepetys (author page)A Higher Call: An Incredible True Story of Combat and Chivalry in the War-Torn Skies of World War II by Adam Makos & Larry AlexanderSlow Growth Equals Strong Roots: Finding Grace, Freedom, and Purpose in an Overachieving World by Mary MarantzSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com* Check out Seed and use my code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: seed.com* Get 15% off your order at happymammoth.com with code CRYSTAL at checkout.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

This week's podcast episode covers a much-requested topic: our favorite audiobooks! Summer is a great time for reading and listening to more books -- especially with road trips and/or just a slower schedule. And if you listen regularly to the podcast, you know we love audiobooks.Whether you’re looking for a way to pass time while cleaning, cooking, or driving or you prefer listening to reading, this episode is packed with our favorite 20+ audiobooks to add to your listening library!I managed to narrow my list down to 20 (okay, maybe a few more) and then Jesse shares some of his favorite series, too. We share a wide range of books -- including my favorite book on habits, a book that inspired me to want to visit all the national parks, captivating fiction, eye-opening historical narratives, and more!We also share how we find time to listen to audiobooks, when we listen to audiobooks, and how we listen to audiobooks. And we share how we never pay for audiobooks!In This Episode[0:35] - Jesse and I are diving into our favorite audiobooks and sharing 20+ recommendations![2:59] - We use the Libby app to listen to audiobooks on my phone (+ when I listen to them!)[4:53] - I start by recommending Lisa Wingate’s Before We Were Yours.[5:51] - I highly recommend The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society for its engaging, well-narrated story.[7:11] - Jesse enjoys starting a series from the beginning, like Bill O'Reilly's Killing series.[9:39] - Next up on my list is The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris.[10:53] - Dear Bob and Sue recounts a couple's witty, sarcastic adventures visiting all U.S. national parks.[13:23] - Jesse enthuses over Vince Flynn’s American Assassin, which starts a series completed by other authors after his death.[14:11] - I mention the highly popular book Atomic Habits.[16:42] - The next audiobook on my list is The Things We Cannot Say by Kelly Rimmer.[17:18] - Pam Jenoff’s The Orphan’s Tale explores how Jews were hidden in circuses during World War II.[17:50] - I also mention Georgia Hunter’s We Were the Lucky Ones, which tells the true story of a Jewish family's survival during World War II.[18:52] - Madeleine Martin’s The Last Bookshop in London is a soothing story that encourages me to read some classic works.[19:38] - Jesse and I both enjoyed The President Is Missing and The President's Daughter for their thrilling political insights and insider details.[20:59] - Kristin Hannah’s The Great Alone vividly depicts the harsh, isolating life in Alaska.[22:29] - I reflect on how Shelby Van Pelt’s Remarkably Bright Creatures, featuring an octopus was unexpectedly compelling.[23:51] - Last year's "summer book club" led me to Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys, sparking my interest in Sepetys’ other historical fiction works.[25:22] - The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek and The Book Woman’s Daughter by Kim Michele Richardson are also compelling.[27:49] - For younger kids, I recommend the Little House on the Prairie series, great for both reading and listening!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineLibby AppGoodreadsEveryday Reading: How to Get Free Out-Of-State Library CardsBooksBefore We Were Yours: A Novel by Lisa WingateThe Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society: A Novel by Mary Ann ShafferKilling Series by Bill O'ReillyThe Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather MorrisDear Bob and Sue by Matt & Karen SmithMitch Rapp Series by Vince FlynnAtomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James ClearCode Name: Lise: The True Story of the Woman Who Became WWII’s Most Highly Decorated Spy by Larry LoftisInto the Lion’s Mouth: The True Story of Dusko Popov: World War II Spy, Patriot, and the Real-Life Inspiration for James Bond by Larry LoftisThe Things We Cannot Say by Kelly RimmerThe Orphan’s Tale: A Novel by Pam JenoffWe Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia HunterThe Last Bookshop in London by Madeline MartinThe President Is Missing by James Patterson & Bill ClintonThe President’s Daughter by James Patterson & Bill ClintonThe Great Alone by Kristin HannahRemarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van PeltRuta Sepetys (author page)The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek: A Novel by Kim Michele RichardsonThe Book Woman’s Daughter: A Novel by Kim Michele RichardsonLittle House on the Prairie (book series) by Laura Ingalls WilderSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com* Check out Seed and use my code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: seed.com* Get 15% off your order at happymammoth.com with code CRYSTAL at checkout.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

This week, join us as we share our goals for this summer! You might recall from our recent episodes our theme for the summer is a Slowed Down Summer.Today, we're talking more about what we plan for that to look like and the specific goals I set for the summer to help me live out that theme. Some of these goals might seem -- at first -- a bit contradictory to the idea of slowing down, but I share more in this episode how these will help me walk out my hope for slowing down this summer.I set a running goal -- which is something that is so cathartic to me! And a reading goal, which is also something that helps me to slow down. In this episode, I share about how I'm incorporating more reading into my day. I also set a reading goal for two chapter books I want to finish with the younger kids + some preschool I want to finish with them over the summer.Finally, we are hoping to plan in lots of dates as a couple and dates with the older kids. I set specific numbers to shoot for, but it's mostly just able intentionally prioritizing time to be together and have fun together.What are your goals and hopes for this summer? I'd love to hear!In This Episode[0:35] - Our goals for a slowed-down summer![1:42] - A little update on savoring vs. surviving graduation week.[7:45] - I recently finished reading Win at Work and Succeed at Life, which challenged me to rethink overworking and balance business with personal priorities.[10:31] - My summer goals focus on working less and slowing down, with specific objectives to achieve this.[11:11] - Goal #1: Run 100 miles and why it doesn't contradict slowing down.[14:33] - Goal #2: finish 50 books![18:30] - Goal #3: finish reading Farmer Boy and Little House on the Prairie with the younger kids.[19:44] - Goal #4: finish reading the Biggest Story Bible with the younger kids and Goal #5: go on eight dates with her older kids.[21:21] - Goal #6: Goal on 15 dates with Jesse.[22:25] - Prioritizing one-on-one dates with the older kids, embracing flexibility while aiming for monthly quality time together.[24:59] - Jesse hopes to finally finish Three Felonies a Day this summer.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksWin At Work And Succeed At Life: 5 Principles To Free Yourself From The Cult Of Overwork by Michael Hyatt & Megan Hyatt MillerFarmer Boy: Little House, Book 2 by Laura Ingalls WilderLittle House on the Prairie (book series) by Laura Ingalls WilderThe Biggest Story Bible Storybook | 104 Engaging Bible Stories for Ages 6–12 by Kevin DeYoung & Don ClarkThree Felonies A Day: How the Feds Target the Innocent by Harvey Silvergate and Alan M. DershowitzSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com* Check out Seed and use my code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: seed.com* Get 15% off your order at happymammoth.com with code CRYSTAL at checkout.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

There are certain conversations and interviews that I know after having them, they will stick with me for a long time to come. This episode with Jessica Hurlbut, author of Unlimited Motherhood: Overcome 12 Limits That Overwhelm and Conflict Our Hearts, is one of those.It touched and challenged me deeply... and it wasn't just the interview with her that you'll hear at the link below, but also our time before and after the interview. Jessica just oozes with kindness and grace and Jesus and her book and her life and this interview inspired me Jessica is mom of five and two of her children have severe autism and of her children were adopted through foster care. Jessica has a heart for families who have children with disabilities and a passion for foster care and adoption -- so we both have a lot of shared passion!One of the most touching parts of our conversation (and of her book) was Jessica's transparency about her struggles and her candidness about walking through what she calls the "hidden years of motherhood". For her, these were years filled with isolation and relentless difficulties, especially when it came to having multiple little ones, fostering, and learning to navigate having two children with autism. But it was during these times that she learned invaluable lessons about surrender, trust, and finding beauty in the unexpected.I can almost guarantee you that you'll be richly blessed by listening to this episode. Jessica's faith in the goodness of God -- despite the dark days of motherhood -- really convicted me! Jessica's insights and experiences will encourage you to lean into God's grace and trust Him even when things feel overwhelming. In This Episode[0:35] - Join me for this episode as I interview Jessica Hurlbut, author of Unlimited Motherhood![1:33] - Jessica's journey of mothering children with autism, fostering, and then adopting two young children.[5:42] - What it was like to walk through eight isolating years as a stay-at-home mom to a child with autism.[9:33] - I ask Jessica to share how she grieved the loss of what she pictured her life would be.[11:58] - Our lives are almost always so much different than we envisioned, but also so much better.[17:11] - What faithfulness looks like in our every day lives.[18:07] - Motherhood isn't about controlling outcomes or being a supermom but is about learning deep trust in God.[22:47] - Jessica shares a powerful story of living radically courageous, even when other people didn't understand. [26:39] - The story isn't tied up with a neat bow, but it's a reminder that God doesn't call us to success but to faithfulness.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksUnlimited Motherhood: Overcome 12 Limits That Overwhelm and Conflict Our Hearts by Jessica HurlbutSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com* Check out Seed and use my code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: seed.com* Get 15% off your order at happymammoth.com with code CRYSTAL at checkout.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Recently, I mentioned something on Instagram about how having an adult child is wonderful and also there are new challenges as your kids get older and grow wings and fly. This resonated with so many people that I ended up turning my thoughts into an Instagram post.And then it inspired us to expand further on it in this week's podcast episode. We're just a year into having an adult child, but we wanted to share what we learned so far -- especially as we get ready to graduate another senior from high school! In this episode, we talk about the ups and downs of watching our kids learn to navigate life on their own. We discuss things we are glad we did ahead of time and things we wish we had known.It’s such a joy to see them succeed and grow, but it’s also tough to watch them struggle and face hardships that we can’t fix for them. We share some of our experiences, some of the hard lessons, and the surprising things we've learned along the way.I hope this conversation encourages you, whether you’re about to launch your kids into adulthood, you already have launched them, or you’re right in the thick of parenting littles or tweens or teens. We also discuss my goal for a “slowed-down summer” and what I've proactively put into place to make that happen. We also answer a question we kept getting about Jesse's To Do app, talk about a book I finished recently, and share some lessons we've learned about communication in marriage (please laugh -- this was such a rabbit trail!). Plus, I share a freebie with you -- 100 Free or Low Cost Summer Bucket List Ideas!In This Episode[0:35] - What we wish we knew before having an adult child, a topic inspired by an Instagram post.[1:35] - Hear about the phrase I chose for this summer.[3:52] - I recently read and loved Tired of Being Tired by Jess Connolly.[6:02] - Jesse shares what he loves about the Appigo Todo app.[8:50] - Challenges we've had in communication in our marriage and lessons we've learned.[13:13] - Learning to let go as a parent of an adult child can be one of the hardest things.[14:22] - The importance of letting kids handle challenges themselves when they are younger.[17:53] - Plus, teaching kids to be more self-sufficient involves giving them tools to confront problems.[20:01] - There is a time to say no and there is a time to express caution and let your child learn through experience.[24:03] - I describe how starting my day with a walk and prayer helps me support and connect with each of my kids.[26:18] - In closing, parenting older children is challenging but rewarding, reminding us to trust and rely on God.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineFree Summer Bucket ListAppigo Todo AppBooksTired of Being Tired: Receive God’s Realistic Rest for Your Soul-Deep Exhaustion by Jess ConnollySocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com* Check out Seed and use my code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: seed.com* Get 15% off your order at happymammoth.com with code CRYSTAL at checkout.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Myquillyn Smith was my very first in-person guest to ever have on the show -- back in 2018! (Listen to episode 12.) And because I loved the in-person experience so much, we decided to ultimately only have in-person guests on the podcasts! She's also someone I've known for years and years through blogging -- back before social media was even a thing!She has a brand-new book called, House Rules: How to Decorate for Every Home Style and Budget. It's a fun and very visual book with lots of practical inspiration (and pictures of her house!). I underlined and dog-eared so many pages in the book and loved getting to ask her to share more about some of my favorite parts of the book.Listen in as Myquillyn shares about why she wrote a book on rules (you'll breathe a sign of relief to know it's not going to be a rigid system but rather simple guidelines!), the importance of authenticity, and the power of starting with what you know. She also teaches us about the "Homey Trinity" and the significance of proper lighting and decor scale. And you'll be encouraged as she talks about how limitations can actually lead to creativity in unexpected ways.Plus, we discuss the concept of clutter and how to navigate the fine line between cozy and chaotic. We close this episode with me asking Myquillin what the hardest rule is for her to follow -- you might be surprised with her answer!Throughout the conversation, Myquillyn reminds us that our homes should serve us, not the other way around. I hope that this episode helps you to see and approach your home and decorating in a brand-new light!In This Episode[0:35] - Today’s guest is returning guest Myquillyn Smith![2:02] - Myquillyn talks about how starting online was intimidating and why she originally went by the pseudonym of The Nester.[4:33] - Teaching decor involves guidelines, but breaking rules can enhance creativity and confidence.[7:29] - Do what you know, use what you have, and finish what you started with.[9:11] - Myquillyn advises starting with inspiration, creating a Pinterest board, and identifying the needs of a room for decorating confidently.[12:12] - You'll love this story of Myquillyn's fancy drapes and how she adapted them to better suit her casual lifestyle.[15:39] - When we find ourselves overly protective of our homes, it's a sign that something needs to change.[17:54] - Owning practical, easy-to-clean furniture allows freedom in enjoying and sharing your home.[19:29] - How to appreciate thrift store finds without feeling compelled to own them brings peace and contentment.[22:00] - The "Homey Trinity" of rugs, window treatments, and lighting.[25:30] - Myquillyn identifies her biggest struggle as items left on the floor becoming "unintended decor".[26:44] - Hear my solution to Myquillyn's challenge - keeping a dumpster in the garage for donations.[30:38] - Be sure to check out 10 Weeks to a More Organized Home, and use the code PODCAST at checkout!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineThe Crystal Paine Show - 12. How to Create a Home That Serves Your Family (with Myquillyn Smith)Myquillyn’s WebsiteMyquillyn’s Instagram PageMyquillyn’s Threads Page10 Weeks to a More Organized HomeBooksHouse Rules: How to Decorate for Every Home Style and Budget by Myquillyn SmithSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com* Check out Seed and use my code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: seed.com* Get 15% off your order at happymammoth.com with code CRYSTAL at checkout.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

I recently shared a blog post on How to Graduate College Debt-Free. This post sparked so many discussions via comments and messages on my blog and through social media that I wanted to explore the topic more in-depth with Jesse on a podcast. This is not a podcast saying that every single person should go to college with zero debt, nor is the purpose to heap shame and guilt on anyone who has college debt. Instead, our hope is just to challenge you to think outside the box a little and to share some strategies and inspiration for ways to save money on college.In this episode, we not only share personal experience from Jesse going to college and law school debt-free, but also from recent things we've learned from our girls. We discuss how it begins with mindset. If you don't believe you can do something or think something is not possible, there's a good chance you're not going to be very motivated to try.We then get really practical and dig into tips and ideas for spending less on college, how to plan ahead for college expenses, how to leverage scholarships, and ways that you can significantly lower college costs just by going a nontraditional route.I hope this episode inspires you with ideas, insights, and inspiration -- whether you are thinking of going back to college, have a child who will be starting college in the not-too-distant future, or you are just curious how it might be possible to get a college degree without debt. As always, we'd love to hear your feedback, ideas, and thoughts after you listen to the episode!In This Episode[0:35] - Today’s topic - getting a debt-free college education, was inspired by a blog post of mine.[2:27] - Belief in possibility is the initial step towards accomplishing anything.[7:33] - Debt relies on uncertain futures; prioritize your current affordability.[10:24] - Choosing in-state education and state scholarships drastically reduces college expenses.[13:21] - Community colleges offer more affordable Gen Ed credits, which can really help save money.[15:13] - Plan strategically and explore dual enrollment in high school + look into alternatives to living on campus.[18:48] - Many students transfer schools after the first year, indicating initial choices may not be your final choices.[21:45] - Challenge your own students to actively seek scholarships. Numerous opportunities exist, even for niche interests.[24:12] - Treat scholarship hunting as a part-time job, maximizing financial aid opportunities.[25:47] - Explore job opportunities offering tuition reimbursement or discounts, including college roles such as being an RA.[29:53] - A mindset shift with creative solutions helps pave the way for generational financial freedom.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBlog Post: How To Graduate College Debt-FreeCollege of the Ozarks - “Graduate Debt Free”Social MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com* Check out Seed and use my code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: seed.com* Get 15% off your order at happymammoth.com with code CRYSTAL at checkout.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Today's episode is on a topic that was requested by a follower! Jesse and I share what it's been like navigating back-to-back senior years with our daughters, Kathrynne and Kaitlynn! It has been a whirlwind of emotions and logistics and Jesse and I are opening up about our experiences - the highs, the challenges, the blessings, and the unexpected lessons that we have learned along the way.Jesse and I share things we learned the hard way, how it's been different for each daughter, what has been easier about going through senior year the second time, and just fun insider information about the experiences that we haven't shared elsewhere online.Whether you have a senior or a child in high school or just are curious what we've learned, I hope that you enjoy listening to us shareIn This Episode[0:35] - Jesse and I are talking today about having back-to-back seniors.[1:13] - I share insights from a devotional from a book, highlighting God's timing and unexpected blessings.[4:08] - Hear how I discovered unforeseen opportunities through MoneySavingMom.com.[7:03] - Be sure to follow @crystaliscleaning on Instagram![9:04] - The challenges and emotional intensity of having two high school seniors in two years.[12:52] - Jesse finds our current senior year smoother compared to the previous one, crediting Kaitlynn's self-motivation.[13:44] - I reflect on simplifying preparations for Kaitlynn's graduation, learning from past experiences with Kathrynne.[22:18] - Encouraging preparedness and focusing on the next year makes for smoother transitions for children.[23:13] - Kaitlynn's openness to uncertainty and evolving plans for the future.[28:09] - What I'm learning about embracing the present while also thinking about the future.Links & ResourcesLinksCrystal PaineEmbraced: 100 Devotions to Know God Is Holding You Close by Lysa TerKeurstFREE Simplified Home ChecklistsSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com* Check out Seed and use my code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: seed.com* Get 15% off your order at happymammoth.com with code CRYSTAL at checkout.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Do you ever feel like you're just barely keeping your head above water? If so, this episode of The Crystal Paine Show is for you! Jesse and I have been married for 21 years and we've learned and grown a lot in those years -- and tried a lot of different things that worked and many things that didn't.In this conversation, we share some of our simple systems that keep us sane and help us to have breathing room in our days to enjoy our life and invest in what matters most.First up, we talk about how we each have our own jurisdictions in managing our house and business and what that looks like. We also share what we expect of our kids and how us all working together really frees up a lot of physical and emotional energy for us as parents.Then, we move onto detailing changes we've made this year to simplify and how it has made such a difference: like reserving one day a week for meetings and interviews, carefully considering commitments and what that looks like for us right now, and how we have our work schedule set up so we both get time to work in.We end with sharing a number of different strategies we employ to eliminate decision fatigue and to streamline our lives: things like groceries, dishes, laundry, daily routines, avoiding paper piles, and more! I also give you a little peek into my home life growing up and talk about how my mom's organized systems influenced me.If you're ready to ditch the overwhelm and reclaim your peace of mind, I hope our ideas serve as a springboard for solutions that might work for you, and don't forget to snag your free Simplified Home Checklists!In This Episode[0:35] - Today's episode dives into practical strategies for maintaining sanity and enjoying life even if there's a lot going on.[1:52] - Delegation and instilling teamwork and work ethic in our kids.[4:35] - Gradual release of responsibility leads to independence as kids develop their own systems over time.[8:20] - Everyone is an asset to our home and we all work together.[11:05] - What simplifying has looked like for our home and schedule this year and one change that has made a big difference.[15:58] - Our current schedule for work-life balance with both of us working from home.[18:39] - How my mom's organized systems have influenced me.[20:46] - Scheduling grocery deliveries and using cost-saving programs like Kroger Boost.[22:59] - Daily routines, paper piles, and how we prep for our day the night before.[27:52] - Check out the free Simplified Home Checklists!Links & ResourcesCrystal Paine208. Slacker Parenting (AKA How to spend less time micromanaging and more time enjoying your kids)232. Why We Require Our Teens to Get a Job at 15Kroger BoostSimplified Home ChecklistsSocial MediaCrystal Paine on InstagramCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com* Check out Seed and use my code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: seed.com* Get 15% off your order at happymammoth.com with code CRYSTAL at checkout.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands