The Mommy Project

This book is exactly what we need to read during the holidays. Giving us a Real-Life perspective on How To Do the holidays when our family, our life , our job, our feelings... are not exactly "Christmas-ey." Alex- mom to 4 girls!, podcaster, mentor, blogger, who recently lost a loved one- knows what it means to Love Your Actual Christmas!     Alex Kuykendall is on The Mommy Project this week and we are discussing her book Loving My Actual Christmas , which is an experiment on being present in her actual Christmas schedule. No eliminating previous traditions, or paring down the to-do list- Alex embarks on Loving it all, maintaining  the Christmas Spirit by diving into God's own Christmas Story. We discuss the paradox of grief and joy, how does sadness play a role in many people's Christmas season, and how we must embrace the grief with the joy. With Alex's still recent loss of her step-father, a man whose presence was felt tremendously in the family- she talks about how she navigates her way through the Christmas parties, gift-wrapping and celebrating while walking through very fresh and intense grief. We all know someone who is experiencing grief. During the holiday season, it is especially hard to be joyful or happy while simultaneously walking through difficult times.Maybe it is because the commercialism, or the well-meaning friends and family who urge us to put aside our sadness for the holidays, or maybe it is simply our culture- which rejects and mishandles anything complicated... like grief. Alex gives us an inside view of her process, why she chose Advent as her framwork for her experiment, and what she learned.  To find Alex Instagram: Website: Loving my Actual Life Podcast: The Open Door Sisterhood Books: Loving my ActualLife, and Loving my Actual Christmas     

Tricia Lovvorn Patterson: our delightful guest on this week's podcast. We discuss how to cultivate a life of joy, what does living a joyful life even mean? And Practical Steps to Cultivate Joy. I am in serious need of this discussion, and this interview was a total God-Thing. Tricia was in my town this weekend speaking at a Women's Conference, and I got to meet and interview her in person. You are going to want to listen to this conversation again and again. Share it with friends and family. Discussion points: A daily Filling of God's Word How to live a Joyful Life in practical ways Why - as Believers this is important to our witness Grumbling+ Complaining = Self-Pity.... This hit me Hard! Isolation Breeds Self-Pity How to Live the Un-Wasted life and what that looks like in a practical way. I love Tricia's heart for women of all ages. She understands the mom-life and how the mundane can be just that- but she chooses everyday to change her perspective. To see life through the lens of Kingdom-Living, or as I remember my pastor saying once, "if it doesn't matter for eternity, it doesn't matter." Listen, Share and Let's Cultivate a Life of Joy. Her Books are so good: Cultivating a Life of Joy The Un-Wasted Life you can find Tricia on Instagram, Youtube, and her website.  

    Robin Jones Gunn How can I fully describe the joy I received from speaking with Robin. Her influence over my life extends to the early 90s... when I began to go down a dark path of bad haircuts and equally bad attitudes. I was 11 years old and had only begun my love of reading, when my mother introduced me to Robin Jones Gunn's The Christy Miller Series I immediately fell in love. First with Todd... and Christy. I wanted an Uncle Bob in my life and desperately needed an Aunt Marti (walking fashion disaster describes my adolescence into my late 20s... if we are being honest).  But it was more than the characters- I loved how Robin's own fevered faith saturates every word she writes. This episode- Robin and I discuss how she found herself an "unlikely author," Her CS. Lewis inspired work ethic, how Grace has infiltrated every part of her life--- and of course her Books. From children's books to relentless teenage critics to SisterChicks and Hallmark Movies inspired by her book Victim of Grace. Mrs. Rosey Posey and the Fine China Plate- I love this book. Excellent for conversations with littles- about what it means "to be set apart." There is so much to Robin's story- as a college kid- she and others snuck behind the Iron Curtain to hand out bibles! She has traveled all over to speak and inevitably talks to women who first fell in live with Jesus by reading The Christy Miller Series. Robin Truly lives the Psalm 78:6 life!!  There is so much Love! Listen And Know You are God's Peculiar Treasure.   I love this Picture-- A picture of what I imagine Christy and Todd on the beach to look like:

  My Favorite so far... The Spirit of Christmas.  Finding Father Christmas / The Christmas Carol  Casablanca and When Harry Met Sally Little Women and Meet Me in Saint Louis While You Were Sleeping/ Holiday Inn  

  Brooke Sailer-mom of 4, writer, blogger, who writes about having a home-life with purpose.   Hey Mamas: Most of know one day, some day we will have to launch our little birdies out into the world. God has blessed us with this extraordinarily awesome role of teaching, nurturing and loving our children into this world with the end result of launching them into adulthood. This launch is a sign of success.. even if it is bittersweet for some of us. This episode is about how we can start now- even with littles to raise future adults, independent thinkers. One of the ways is by giving your child freedoms, independence in their choices, no micromanaging- and teaching critical thinking... not kids you control.  My special guest is Brooke Sailer, mom of 4. She home- schools her 4 and how she encourages independent thought through projects, independent learning and allowing each child to pursue his/her interests.       Special Mention: Dr Shefali Tsabary, a psychologist. She teaches  on Conscious Parenting (August 20th ep.) Homeschooling/ Unstructured. Brooke Sailer- (I'm failing At) This Thing Called Home  Brooke's Instagram Brooke gives all kids of parenting tips on her instagram. Check her out! Brooke's Blog is a Awesome resource for ideas of homemaking with purpose and joy, gift guides and loveliness!  

One of Libby's Creations This episode is part recap of Ep. 66 with Libby Gifford and part confessional. I resonated with all the topics discussed in last week's episode, that I wanted to give you my perspective on some of the topics discussed such as: finding significance in the Wrong Things misplaced priorities. What I think about the most, obsess over the most- mirrors my true priorities. Which is scary sad! Re-Aligning myself with Joy- breaking free from the comfortable, but miserable to reestablish joy in life Motivated by Fun by creating space for the Soul to Breathe Classic Films and Good Books and Music Motivated by Fun: What does that mean? What is White Space? And How can I get some?? How does one create breathing room in the Holiday Season? Where even the smallest amounts of commitment can seem overwhelming to a packed out schedule? I cannot give you a 10 step plan.. but here is what I can do: Definition: White Space/ Margin for Me- is anything that gives me life, refreshes my soul, or brings a lightness to my mind, body and spirit. What this looks like (for Me): Walks and Hikes outdoors. If I have company- even better. but otherwise- no music, no earbuds, only the sound of my breathing and nature's music Spending one-on one time with my kids. Un-rushed, on fussing allowed. With E- it usually involves making things, or playing beauty shop.  For my boys- it is literally pushing a truck back and forth and me giving them lots of affection. Saying no to things that are actually really awesome, but may not be the Most beneficial to my soul at the time. Prayer, Psalm 91. Sit still. Confessions: My Epic fail as Mom- Maverick's birthday party- Hard Conversation with my husband about my priorities. My struggle with productivity and Significance and the misplacement of what truly matters. Recommends: Movie Classics  (Awesome for the Holidays) The Shop Around the Corner (1945) with Jimmy Stewart Christmas in Connecticut (1945) with Barbara Stanywek Little Women (Winona Ryder version) but the Elizabeth Taylor version is good too! Podcast: The Mommy Project Ep. 66 with Libby Gifford and Go check out her Instagram!! So So Good. The Influence Network Ep. 54 with Christa Black Gifford (if You are Pregnant- wait to listen in your postpartum ) This episode wrecked me- in a good way- and had a huge impact on my podcast life! Music: thanks to Libby- I found a new band to love ----> The Lone Bellow (Spotify) Books: The Atonement Child by Francine Rivers. (This is an oldie but a goodie... and if you have read it before- it is worth a re-read!!)

In this Episode- I chat with one of the coolest ladies I know. And before I do my best to introduce Libby Gifford to you- I should say her taste is spot on! From: Classic movies to traveling the world, Libby is one-of a kind. You will want to listen to all the subtle recommends in this episode. Here are a few subjects we discuss: Children's Books that helped uncover a new way of seeing a World of possibilities. Why grandparents are so cool. And How the Creative life began at an early age through stories, illustrations and hours of doodling. Where to find inspiration when the world feels stale.   If you don't know who Libby Gifford is- then go right now to her Instagram account and follow her! @libgif She is a graphic designer, native Arkansas-ian.. (is that a word?), adventurer in heart and soul- old soul who loves old things made new. She is urber talented in illustrations, lettering, and setting up the most bada** Backdrops and Set Designs you have seen. She can talk art to the non-artist (me) and deep dive into vintage children's books with the best book-geek. Her humor is spot on, and I am a better person for knowing Libby Gifford! Seriously! What are you waiting for? Go check out her hilarious Instagram stories of living the Auntie Life while in pursuit of the lost beauty, the forgotten soul, the discarded.   A self-proclaimed doodle queen who sees potential in the junk- This episode covers a multitude of topics, but the heart is this- the creative life is worth living. However, it takes risks, it takes going off the grid- off the plan. It takes slowing down and Not getting caught up in the product. As cliche as this sounds, we should enjoy the process, and quit worrying about the outcome.  The creative life and the mom-life are so similar! Our identity can be wrapped up in the creation (or our children), and when the creation, the art- the product is finished or does not go as planned, we question ourselves. We doubt our abilities or our purpose. And so the question I have for you is: How do we keep from attaching our identity, our self-worth to something or someone... Instead of The One who created us? Podcast to listen: Maltin on Movies, Buzz Feed Harry Potter, and The Popcast with Knox and Jamie.  Books to Read: Runny Babbit by Shel Silverstein, Robert McClosky books, Hiram's Red Shirt (Little Golden Books) Movies to Watch: Philadelphia Story, and Carey Grant Doris Day Rock Hudson combo. An Affair to Remember, I don't know if I said this but I love the Fred Aistaire/ Ginger Rogers movies.    

This episode is part recap of last week's episode and part sharing what a recovering unadventerous, dull-minded mom has done to create fun in the house.... esp. while daddy is out of town. *note: Hey- You Single Moms- Cudos to you for doing this gig day in day out by yo-self! Seriously! God must have special jewels and crowns in Heaven for you.  Crazy moments often happen in the mornings and the dinner hour- at least at my house. When it comes to creating a home filled with Grace, Peace and Fun, I am at a loss. Toddlers to teenagers- moms across the spectrum could use a How-To Guide, a How-To stop the crazy cycle before it escalates to full out tantrums and raised voces. Before the tension gets to the point we second-guess why we became a mother. Here is where a how-to guide and a good dose of tea-time with God helps!   Taking ideas from Courtney DeFeo's book, In This House we Will Giggle- I practice trying to have more fun with my kids. I am not a naturally "fun" person, at least I don't consider my self the initiator of fun, BUT I want to change. In fact- when the roles were divided up in the house- and I found myself  in the role of late-night feeder, monitor of who gets water, who needs clean sheets, who's butt needs to be wiped, while my husband took on the more lively role of storyteller, tickler and all things fun.  As a Mom- I feel myself becoming more like a hall-monitor who wears skin-tight bossypants. And my kids are growing up seeing me fuss more than cuddle, and that is not okay. I don't want my husband to be the only one who gets the "fun" reputation, while I remain a "stick in the mud." So here is what I have done So Far-- Dance parties are super popular- because they work! - Sing (great soundtrack) -make a Playlist for every mood. Here are a few titles from my Sportify playlist library: Crazy Tense Kitchen (lots of Pop and Fun-Kid friendly music), The Mean Reds (Blues becasue I love the Blues) Crazy Ira (an Eclectic Sort of music genres).  - Washable markers and letting kids draw on your face.  - Go get a Ice Tea or Water from Sonic- Go Anywhere - Use the ABC Scripture cards as a game or fun at bedtime.  -Buck Up! ignore your inner -critic and embrace the chaos- take all the kids: whether it is one or 16 somewhere. The house is lovley, but the walls can feel clausterphobic after awhile.  -Go outside A Ton! Rain, Snow, Heat Waves and Humidity- those kids and you need fresh air and nature! I am giving away- a copy of Courtney DeFeo's book- In this House We Will Giggle AND the gorgeous ABC Scripture Cards- as a gift to you! To Enter into the drawing go to my instagram page @themommypro for details!!    

  Sunday Confession 28 is a little TMI in regards to things not to eat during late pregnancy. I share how certain picture books effect my moods, and the Perfect Pregnancy Workout I used throughout all 3 of my pregnancies, which helped me feel toned and "less-large." The Giving Tree The Perfect Pregnancy Workout DVD Vol. 1 is great for sculpting and full body... the vol. 2 is yoga. Even Superheroes have Bad Days. Don't eat the Figs

    How do we teach our children virtues like: Love, Gratitude, Joy, Generosity and Compassion.. AND Still make it fun/ exciting and cultivate a desire to know and love Jesus?? Listen to this week's episode with Courtney Defeo.      Courtney DeFeo- is the friend you want in your corner. She is a blogger, writer, speaker, and creator of the ABC Scripture Cards and Light 'Em Up. We discuss her love for fun, practical ways to incorporate virtues in the home and why surrounding yourself with Godly, Like-Minded women is crucial in this Mommy Project. Courtney's practical tips and her stories are so relatable- I know you will enjoy hearing form her as much as I did!!!    Videos you Must check Out: Mom Set Free (start at about 30:00 minutes in) MomLife (one of my favorites!) Courtney's Blog  Her Book- an Awesome guide to teaching your kids to Delight in God's Word and Know Him!  Check out my Instagram @themommypro- I will be giving away some Goodies You will not want to Miss!! 

Postpartum anxiety- and the cycle of destructive thoughts cripples a new mom. This episode is a look into my personal struggle with anxiety. I give a brief overview of how exercise helped me fight intrusive thoughts, dark days and loneliness. I share how exercise saved me from the dark-depressive/oppressiveness of postpartum depression and anxiety. And How weight-loss became a matter of less importance and more about creating some breathing  room. 8 weeks postpartum with baby 1 I am not a doctor and have no claim on the right answers, but this is what works for me. I share my weight loss journey and certain exercises I found to be helpful - especially during my darkest days and weeks. I find this topic to be so individualistic, but there may be something here you resonate with, and this is my hope.  That you will find encouragement in camaraderie, and know no matter what season of motherhood you are in..... a good pair of walking shoes is always a good investment. On Sunday Confession- I will share my favorite athletic attire, some embarrassing pregnancy moments and other tips and tricks regarding weight loss and wellness. Check Back on Sunday! E is about 4 months old- going on a hike with me- Create your own Breathing Room!

Patty Pittman-3x Ironman. USA Triathlon Coach. Mom to my son, Trek. Fitness trainer. Saved by grace. from The Mommy Project Ep. 62 is back for her confession. It is all in the realm of taste in popular trends, impactful reads-and dumb moves made only by the naive. Enjoy this week's Sunday Confession! Ps. It is my birthday week- It would thrill me if you could share this post with one friend. Through Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. Share and Spread the love for The Mommy Project. We all need to know where our people are- So let it be here! xoxo, Kimberley   You can find Patty here------> Facebook Patty has a BootCamp starting up---> Let her Know if you want to be in the group (free)  Also- She puts up live videos and encouraging posts on Instagram Captivating 

Patty Pittman- Fitness Trainer, 3x ironman, 7x Marathon > who knows what it means to fight for the health she wants. We invite you into our 3rd conversation with Momas who place an emphasis on Health, Fitness and faith to help them be the best version of themselves. For their families, for themselves.  We discuss unexpected C-Sections, Miscarriage and infertility, Endometriosis and how Nutrition helped this fitness trainer find healing.  Enjoy this Moma's Story .  For More of Patty Pittman- you can find her on instagram, facebook 

Sunday Confession 26 - with Crossfit Mama of 2-  Cassie Remington  Where she confesses her struggles with rude comments, her need for a good body spray,mom- haters and how long it took her to do a pull-up... Plus More!  It is all fun here on today's Sunday Confession.    For more of Cassie's story- check out our weekly, Episode 61 with Cassie.     

    I love to talk to moms about being active, postpartum weight loss hacks and getting back to feeling good and confident. Pregnancy is awesome, but it takes a toll on a moms body. So- how have women approached this postpartum weight loss journey? What are some things they have tried that worked and did not not work... And how does Cross-Fit play a role in this mom's life? Going from 40lbs over weight due to pregnancy- to now owning a gym and looking every inch the part of a cross-fitter, Cassie Remington shares her story with us on The Mommy Project. We discuss: why women are so intimidaed by jumping.. post partum problems only women understand weight loss and nutrition who hates meal-planning Why owning a gym does not exempt you from still doing the work How taking a risk and opening up a new cross-fit gym has effected her family and community. How marriages have been healed or strenghten through this community. Plus More...   Community- Positive Energy- Pushing You to Past the Intimidation, Past the Plateaus, Past the Excuses - Cassie Remington knows what it means to take a risk, do life with others and be a cheerleader for other women.