Crystal Paine Show Crystal Paine

I am so excited for you to dive into this episode as I have a truly special guest, Jessica Hurlbut, whose story and book, Unlimited Motherhood: Overcome 12 Limits That Overwhelm and Conflict Our Hearts, have been deeply inspiring for me and likely will be for you as well!
Jessica is truly a force with which to be reckoned! A mom of five, with two kids with severe autism and two adopted kids via foster care, her journey is nothing short of extraordinary, filled with challenges and incredible moments of faith. Listen as she and I discuss how she navigates the complexities of raising children with special needs, the emotional rollercoaster of fostering and adopting, and the profound lessons that she has learned along the way.
One of the most touching parts of our conversation has to be Jessica's transparency about her struggles, and she shares candidly about the hidden years of motherhood. For her, these were years filled with isolation and relentless challenges, especially with a daughter on the autism spectrum, but it was during these times that she learned invaluable lessons about surrender, trust, and finding beauty in the unexpected.
Also tune in to hear some incredible stories, such as when Jessica and her husband took in a young man named Adam who was struggling with addiction. Their willingness to say "yes" to this led to a year of transformation for Adam and their family, and these inspiring stories are truly a testament to the power of stepping out in faith, even when it looks nothing like we imagined.
If you are a parent, especially a foster parent and/or one navigating the challenges of children with special needs, then this episode is definitely for you! Jessica's insights and experiences will encourage you to lean into God's grace and trust His process. Her book, which isn't just a how-to guide for motherhood but is also a heartfelt and vulnerable memoir, is a must-read for anyone looking to find deeper meaning and purpose in the everyday struggles of motherhood, so be sure to get yourself a copy!

In This Episode
[0:35] - Join me for this episode as I interview Jessica Hurlbut, author of Unlimited Motherhood!
[1:33] - Learn a little bit about Jessica and her background.
[4:42] - Jessica shares how she adopted two children whose biological parents, after two years, surrendered their parental rights.
[5:42] - Jessica experienced eight isolating years as a stay-at-home mom to a child with autism.
[8:17] - I appreciate Jessica’s book's deep truths and honest storytelling.
[9:33] - Jessica describes healing as a process, emphasizing that trust in God grows through life's unexpected challenges.
[11:58] - Jessica believes that God uses our struggles to lead us to a better life than we envisioned, which requires faith and trust.
[14:40] - Fostering and adopting ultimately led to unexpected blessings for Jessica.
[17:11] - I value the message of finding deep inner peace by trusting God despite life's chaos, emphasizing being faithful and present over merely surviving.
[18:07] - Motherhood isn't about controlling outcomes or being a supermom but is about trusting God, Jessica argues.
[21:10] - I share how fostering a boy, then letting him reunify with his birth mother, showed my kids faith-driven decisions.
[22:47] - Hear how Jessica fostered a young man named Adam who was struggling with addiction.
[25:46] - Despite her initial doubt, Adam’s time with Jessica ended up being healing and transformative.
[26:39] - Adam struggled to accept love, exhibiting familiar foster care patterns, yet ultimately found redemption.
[29:14] - I close by highlighting the impact of obedient faith.

Links & Resources
Crystal Paine


Books
Unlimited Motherhood: Overcome 12 Limits That Overwhelm and Conflict Our Hearts by Jessica Hurlbut

Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Mon

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 & Resources
Crystal Paine
Free Summer Bucket List
Appigo Todo App
Books
Tired of Being Tired: Receive God’s Realistic Rest for Your Soul-Deep Exhaustion by Jess Connolly
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com


Our Sponsors:
* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com
* Check out undefined and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: undefined
* Visit armoire.style/CRYSTAL to get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Never worry about what to wear again—try Armoire today!


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 HomeBooks
House Rules: How to Decorate for Every Home Style and Budget by Myquillyn SmithSocial Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook groupcrystal@moneysavingmom.com

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com
* Check out undefined and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: undefined
* Visit armoire.style/CRYSTAL to get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Never worry about what to wear again—try Armoire today!


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 Paine
Blog Post: How To Graduate College Debt-Free
College 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 groupcrystal@moneysavingmom.com

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com
* Check out undefined and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: undefined
* Visit armoire.style/CRYSTAL to get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Never worry about what to wear again—try Armoire today!


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 share
In 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 & Resources
LinksCrystal Paine
Embraced: 100 Devotions to Know God Is Holding You Close by Lysa TerKeurst
FREE Simplified Home Checklists
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 groupcrystal@moneysavingmom.com

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com
* Check out undefined and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: undefined
* Visit armoire.style/CRYSTAL to get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Never worry about what to wear again—try Armoire today!


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 groupcrystal@moneysavingmom.com

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Claritin: www.claritin.com
* Check out undefined and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: undefined
* Visit armoire.style/CRYSTAL to get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Never worry about what to wear again—try Armoire today!


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands