Dreams, Dirt & Grace- Business, Homeschooling, Simple Living & Parenting Hacks for Moms

282 Episodes

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19: 22 Things you can Do Right Now to Get Started with Homeschooling today for the Busy Mama!

2021-09-2417:34

Hey mamas! This episode is jammed packed with a whole lot of awesomeness for You! In this episode you will learn 22 Things you can Do Right Now to Get Started with Homeschooling today! Yes! Free Lesson Ideas! You will learn how you already have things in place to learn in your home & I’ll even give you a Free Fun Lesson for ANY Age! Get ready to take notes! - Kawai Connect -> support@homeschoolingentrepreneurmom.com Instagram -> https://www.instagram.com/kawai_ahquin Community -> https://bit.ly/HEMsupportgroup Website -> http://www.homeschoolingentrepreneurmom.com Want to Start Homeschooling -> http://www.homeschoolingentrepreneurmom.com/hbb.html

278: Mama, Your Plate Is Too Full (And God Didn’t Ask You to Carry All of This)

2026-02-0434:03

In this episode we’ll talk about… Good things can still crowd out God things Discernment over people-pleasing Choosing what’s mine to carry and what isn’t This is for the overwhelmed mamas who feel stretched thin and quietly resentful (like me when I crowded my calendar with toooo much). If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

277: When God Stripped It Away (2025 as a Pruning Season)

2026-01-2842:07

This isn’t a teaching episode. This is a testimony. 2025 was the year God stripped it away. Not gently. Not quietly. Not one thing at a time. But layer by layer… identity by identity. And for the first time in my entire adult life, I was left standing without the things that told me who I was. If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

276: When God Clears the Garden So New Growth Can Come

2026-01-2120:49

I'm kicking off the new year of 2026 with a Season of episodes called When God Clears the Garden So New Growth Can Come Every episode fits under one gentle truth: God has been stripping, simplifying, strengthening, and re-ordering. This season isn’t about doing more. It’s about seeing clearly. Make sure you Subscribe to the show so you get notified when the next episode is released. If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

283: Bible, Prayer, and Worship in the Middle of Chaos

2026-03-1130:22

Prioritizing God in the middle of a busy life Does your quiet time with God feel impossible in a busy home? In this episode, we talk about letting go of perfect quiet-time expectations and learning how to invite God into the middle of everyday life—while cooking, homeschooling, working, exercising, or simply moving through your day. Because God isn’t waiting for perfect silence. He’s simply waiting to be invited in. If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

282: Your Body Is Not an Afterthought

2026-03-0435:20

Stewarding the Body God Gave You Through Seasons of Womanhood Our bodies change. Through marriage. Through pregnancy. Through postpartum. Through stress, career shifts, grief, joy, and everything in between. And almost every time our season changes, the critic gets louder. In this episode, we talk honestly about the difference between punishing your body and stewarding it. We unpack why transitions trigger comparison, how social media amplifies insecurity, and why the little girl inside you is still listening to the way you speak about yourself. We’ll also explore what stewardship actually looks like in real life — strength with dignity, rest without guilt, long-term thinking instead of quick fixes, and gentle reframing rooted in Scripture. This isn’t about shrinking. It’s about sustaining. It’s about learning to treat your body like the gift God designed it to be. If you’ve been hard on yourself lately, this episode is a steady reminder: your body is not an afterthought. 🌿 If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

281: When Life Became the Curriculum

2026-02-2530:22

How a natural disaster turned into our main homeschool course In this episode, I share how one of the biggest flooding events in our community forced us to put down the workbooks and step into real-time learning — from emergency prep and evacuation plans to tracking river levels and navigating uncertainty as a family. But this episode isn’t just about homeschool. It’s about how real-life disruptions can become powerful classrooms. We talk about: How to pivot instead of panic when plans fall apart Teaching preparation without teaching fear Letting kids participate in problem-solving Modeling faith during uncertainty Learning humility by receiving help Why reflection after hardship builds resilience Sometimes the most important lessons don’t come from a curriculum you planned. They come from moments you didn’t. If you’re a parent navigating interruptions, unexpected stress, or seasons that don’t look like what you imagined — this episode is an invitation to see the classroom hiding in the chaos. Because sometimes, life becomes the lesson. If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

280: Learning to Serve From Overflow.

2026-02-1827:56

In Episode 278, we talked about clearing our plates—letting God remove what we were never meant to carry. But once things come off, a new question rises: What do I say yes to now? In this episode, Learning to Serve From Overflow, we talk about how to choose the right yeses without filling our calendars right back up or draining our hearts in the process. We explore: Why “time management” is a myth and what actually needs managing The difference between managing your yeses and protecting your noes How rest and withdrawal are part of faithful service, not a failure of it What it looks like to be busy with God-given purpose instead of pressure How planning with God at the center shapes everyday decisions The power of an “approval pause” for mamas who tend to people-please This conversation is for the mama who wants to serve well without running dry—who’s learning that obedience doesn’t require exhaustion and that overflow comes from alignment, not availability. If God has been asking you to sit first, this episode is an invitation to listen. If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

279-The Date that Steadies Our Marriage with Special Guest, My Hubby

2026-02-1145:59

What started as a goal-setting meeting eventually became one of the most grounding rhythms in our marriage. In this episode, my husband and I sit down together to share the end-of-year date we’ve been returning to for over a decade—not because we’re disciplined or perfect, but because life moves fast and marriage needs tending. We talk honestly about: Why this tradition didn’t start as a spiritual practice How chasing goals and achievement left us misaligned What shifted when we invited God not just into our plans, but over our year What this date actually looks like (spoiler: it’s simple, sometimes messy, and never fancy) How reflecting before planning has steadied our marriage through busy, uncertain, and hard seasons This conversation isn’t about productivity or having it all figured out. It’s about pausing long enough to see each other again, listening for God’s voice together, and choosing alignment over achievement. If you’re a mama craving intention, connection, and a marriage rhythm that brings peace instead of pressure, this episode is an invitation to slow down and pull up a chair. Marriage isn’t something you perfect. It’s something you return to. If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

275- More Than a Feeling: Learning to Hear God in Your Decisions

2025-12-1235:24

Have you ever said “yes” to something just because it felt good? Same here. I used to make big life decisions based on that warm, peaceful feeling and call it confirmation. But over time, I learned that following God isn’t always about the feelings—it’s about faith, obedience, and listening for His voice in deeper ways. In this episode, I share a personal story about how I almost said yes to an opportunity that looked perfect on paper—but instead, God took me on a journey of prayer, discernment, surrender, and clarity. I walk you through the steps I’ve learned to take when making big decisions—from praying alone to seeking wise counsel, waiting in stillness, and asking God to search my heart. This one’s for you if you’re in a season of “should I or shouldn’t I?”, if the old ways of “feeling led” aren’t quite working anymore, or if you’re learning to trust God with your yes and your no. If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

274: Mama Systems That Actually Work (For Us)

2025-11-2832:05

Real-life rhythms, chore strategies, and sanity-saving systems from a homeschooling mama of 5. Let’s be real—keeping a household running, homeschooling the kids, and keeping everyone fed (without losing your mind) requires more than just a good planner. In this episode, I’m opening up our real-life mama systems: the chore rhythms, life skills training, tech boundaries, and daily routines that have actually helped our family thrive—not just survive. You’ll hear how we’ve: Taught our kids independence (yes, they can do laundry and cook!) Shifted from reward systems to responsibility mindsets Built chore routines that don’t cause daily arguments Managed electronics in a way that honors their growth and our peace Created rhythms that invite rest, structure, and more Jesus into our days Whether you’re overwhelmed by dishes, drowning in socks, or just curious how another mama makes it work—this episode is here to encourage you with practical ideas (and a whole lot of grace). 🔁 Because what works for one family won’t work for all… but sometimes, hearing someone else’s “working messy” helps you find your own. If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

273: What We Learned Outside the Lesson Plan

2025-11-1431:09

Spoiler alert: Some of the best lessons don’t come from a textbook. In this episode, we’re talking about the learning that happens off the page—in the dirt, in the backyard, in the chicken coop, on the trail, at the playground, and in all those beautifully unplanned moments that make homeschool feel alive. From incubating quail eggs to building bike ramps, from visiting small local businesses to crafting DIY Halloween costumes, we discovered that “school” doesn’t always come from a workbook. Sometimes the most meaningful lessons happen when life interrupts the plan. If you’ve ever felt guilty because you couldn’t stick to the schedule… or because your kids learn better in the wild than at the table… this episode will breathe fresh grace into your homeschool. This is your permission slip to embrace the rabbit trails, the muddy boots, the spontaneous field trips, and the joyful chaos that actually counts as learning. Grab your coffee (or your cold reheated one 😉) and let’s talk about all the magic happening outside the lesson plan. If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

272: This Curriculum Is Not the Boss of You

2025-10-2417:05

Feeling behind? Burnt out? Like the stack of curriculum you bought is staring you down with judgmental eyes? Been there, mama. 🙋🏽‍♀️ In this episode of Dreams, Dirt & Grace, we’re talking about the moment when your beautiful, color-coded homeschool plan falls apart—and what to do next. I’m sharing real stories, honest struggles, and what I’ve learned about making curriculum serve us, not the other way around. You’ll walk away with encouragement, practical mindset shifts, and a whole lot of grace for those "we're behind again!" days. ✨ Because curriculum is a tool—not your taskmaster. And you, mama, are the teacher God chose. If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

271- Homeschooling in the Wild: How to Keep It Joyful, Simple & Rooted in What Matters

2025-10-1026:38

In this episode, we’re diving into the real-life mess and magic of homeschooling. Whether you're knee-deep in lesson plans, wondering if you're "doing it right," or just trying to survive another day without someone crying over math (and it might be you), this one’s for you. We’ll talk about: How to simplify your homeschool rhythm What to do when you feel burnt out Why joy and curiosity matter more than a perfect curriculum How to invite God into your homeschool planning (without needing a seminary degree) And real-life tips from our own family’s homestead-homeschool mash-up By the end, I hope you feel encouraged, grounded, and reminded that your homeschool doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s. Because your family, your story, and your pace is part of God's perfect plan. If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

270: “What If I Just Gave It All Up?” When You’re Tempted to Walk Away from the Calling (of Being a SAHM)

2025-09-2623:57

Ever wonder if all this staying home, pouring out, and homeschooling is really worth it? In this honest episode, I’m sharing a moment where I almost walked away from the calling—and what helped me stay rooted. We’ll talk about the tug-of-war between purpose and pressure, and how God reminded me that this season of motherhood matters deeply. Takeaways: Doubt doesn’t mean you’re not called. Obedience sometimes looks like staying. Your faithfulness at home is kingdom work. For the mama who feels tired, torn, or tempted to chase something else—this one’s for you. If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

269- Oxygen Masks & Messy Homes: Setting the Atmosphere as a Mom

2025-09-1227:36

Ever notice how your home shifts with your mood? I sure have—and it was a wake-up call. In this episode, we’ll talk about why moms set the atmosphere of their homes, how our emotions, rhythms, and spiritual walk ripple through our families, and how even the smallest self-care moments can shift everything. Mama, you have more influence than you realize—let’s learn how to use it with grace. If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

268- When I Realized I Was the Problem (Submission, Leadership & God’s Grace in Marriage)

2025-08-2920:05

What if the biggest thing standing in the way of God's plans for your family… is you? In this vulnerable and heart-changing episode, I share the costly and humbling lesson I had to learn about submission—what it really means to walk in biblical order within our homes, and how I unintentionally distracted my husband from hearing God's direction. If you’ve ever wrestled with control, pride, or the desire to “help” steer the ship… this one's for you, sis. We talk about: How a good thing can still be a distraction Why “Happy wife, happy life” isn’t always helpful What God showed me when I finally got quiet How to release the need to lead and allow your husband to hear God clearly Practical ways to grow in submission (without shrinking your strength) And the peace that comes when we trust God’s design for our family This episode is a real, raw invitation to check your heart, pray over your marriage, and remember that submission isn’t weakness—it’s powerful surrender. ✨ Includes a guided prayer and encouragement for every wife trying to walk in God’s will while still learning to let go. If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

267 — Preparing for Your Homeschool Year (Even If You Don’t Feel Ready)

2025-08-1529:17

Preparing for Your Homeschool Year (Even If You Don’t Feel Ready) 🌿 With faith, flexibility, and a whole lot of grace Feeling behind before the homeschool year even starts? You’re not alone, friend. Whether your books haven’t arrived, your plans feel scattered, or your confidence is shaky—this episode is a gentle hug and a deep breath for your homeschool mama heart. In today’s episode, I share some of our messiest first days, the years we started late (or not at all), and how God lovingly led me to lay down my hustle and invite Him into the planning. It’s not about perfect charts and tidy shelves—it’s about connection, flexibility, and faith. We’ll chat about what it looks like to: Let go of the pressure to do it all Pray over your year and ask God for vision Start simple, create rhythms, and make space for grace Trust that God equips the called—even when we don’t feel ready Whether you’re planning with a latte in hand or praying in between diaper changes, you are not behind—and you are not alone. 💛 👣 Quick Takeaways from Today’s Episode: You don’t need a perfect start. Messy beginnings are still holy. Pray first. Let God speak vision into your year. Start small. Focus on 2–3 anchor subjects or rhythms. Make it simple. Use what you have. The learning will come. Reflect weekly. Adjust with grace and prayer. You are called. Not because you're ready—but because He is faithful. If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

266: Part 10: Hope – Holding on to what God is doing—even when you can't see it yet. Through the Fire series

2025-08-0123:53

Sometimes hope feels like the hardest thing to hold onto—especially when the ending of your story looks nothing like what you pictured. In this final episode of our Through the Fire series, I’m sharing how God taught me to hold on to hope—not because I had all the answers or could see the whole plan, but because He was still with me in the unknown. If you’re standing in the ashes, wondering what’s next, this one’s for you. If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

265: Part 9: Identity- Rediscovering Who YOU are in Him… When the Title is Stripped Away. Through the Fire Series

2025-07-1820:55

Who are you when the title is gone? In this raw and reflective episode of Through the Fire, we explore what it means to rediscover your identity in Christ after the role, the dream, or the achievement you clung to has been stripped away. I’m sharing the personal journey of losing the title “Firefighter,” and the deeper work God did to remind me that my worth isn’t in what I do—but in who He says I am. If you've ever felt lost in the in-between, this one’s for you. Let’s uncover what was always true: you are still chosen, still called, and still His. If you want to learn how to embrace the Dirt on your journey, come join me over on Substack at kawailani.substack.com

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Dreams, Dirt & Grace- Business, Homeschooling, Simple Living & Parenting Hacks for Moms