Take Heart

Eps. 143:  October 2, 2023 God’s Faithfulness in the Midst of Daily SufferingSummary: In this episode, Amy explores the complexities of faithfulness in the midst of suffering as a special needs parent. She shares her own experiences of feeling betrayed and angry at God as she faced challenging behaviors daily from several of her children. Amy discusses the disconnect between her expectations of what it means to be faithful and the reality of her lived experiences. Offering a shift in perspective, she reflects on a silent retreat and the importance of remembering ourselves as beloved by God, held in his hand. Amy encourages listeners to embrace the messiness and doubts of faithfulness and find solace in being God's beloved. Key Moments:[1:02] Is it possible to just trust and obey God? It’s not that simple[3:17] Feeling mad, betrayed, low—God can handle it[9:10] Deep life security and not task management[11:09] Not servants but beloved familyResources:What it feels like to be the Nurturing Enemy The Unhiding of Elijah Campbell: Kelly Flanagan Mission Shaped Spirituality: Susan HopeEph: 3:14-19If you enjoyed the show:Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeSupport the show

In this collaborative episode, all three hosts answer listeners’ questions. They discuss the importance of embracing the present moment and finding joy in the little things while navigating the journey of special needs parenting. They share personal experiences and reflections on how their own dreams and expectations have shifted over time. The episode highlights the need to grieve the loss of old dreams while also allowing space for new dreams to emerge. They talk about strategies for parenting the siblings of their special needs children and how to manage the emotional well-being of everyone in the household. Thanks for submitting your questions!Eps. 142: Sept 26, 2023Resources:Ep. 136 Growing Slow with Jennifer Dukes LeeGrowing Slow: Jennifer Dukes Lee How to Find Strength and Compassion in Struggle with Aundi KolblerAdam YoungIf you enjoyed the show:Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeSupport the show

Sara Clime talks about transitions in this week's episode. As a caregiver, transitions are something that is common, yet rarely easy. Join Sara as she gives some practical (and unapologetic) steps that she has implemented over the years to help reduce the overwhelm, decision fatigue, and general anxiety that comes with inevitable change. Getting practical through a transition (big or small) doesn't eliminate the emotions. However, getting practical establishes an element of control when the world around us seems to be in chaos. Ep.141; September 19, 2023Key Moments:[3:42]  Feeling the feels when navigating transitions[6:16] Getting practical when in transition-overwhelm (5 steps)[6:28] Step 1: "No." is a complete sentence[6:46] Step 2: 3 pieces of paper, an app, and a matrix[10:12] Step 3: Recruit[10:42] Step 4: Calendar[11:21] Step 5: Be adaptableResources:https://asana.com/Explanation of the Eisenhower &/or Covey MatrixIf you enjoyed the show:Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeSupport the show

Carrie Holt discusses how to spiritually and practically navigate hospital stays with our children. Drawing from her own experiences, Carrie talks about the importance of recognizing the armor we put on in these situations, such as control, withdrawal, and cynicism, and how they can hinder our ability to trust in God. She encourages listeners to invite God into these spaces and remember that He is always with us, even during hospital stays. Carrie also offers practical advice for dealing with unplanned hospital stays and emphasizes the importance of grieving the losses that come with these experiences. She encourages listeners to know their limits, rely on scripture and prayer, and seek support from therapists and counselors during hospital stays. Ep.140; September 12, 2023Key Moments:[1:16] Spina Bifida and my coping mechanism[5:00] Looking for Jesus in the moment[7:43] Letting grief come[9:29] Practical hospital survival tips[13:43] CaringBridge: How Carrie uses itResources:Ep. 101: Identity Theft (References Breath Prayers)CaringBridgeFootprints PoemIf you enjoyed the show:Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeSupport the show

In this first episode of season 4, Amy Brown kicks it off with a topic close to her heart: resourcing yourself as a caregiver. Amy shares her personal journey of learning to listen to her own life and prioritize self-care. Drawing from her experiences and the insights of women like Jennifer Dukes Lee and Taylor Elise Morrison, Amy explores the importance of asking ourselves questions like, “How am I contributing to my own chaos? Where am I feeling disconnected? Where do I need rest or space?” She suggests that finding moments of rest and joy, and letting go of the constant hustle and overwhelm can provide the resources you need to press on. Discover practical ways to resource yourself and create space for connection in your life as a caregiver. Ep. 139: August 8, 2023Key Moments:[1:46]The starting point for most people's self care isn't a purchase. [5:45] Situational strength (white-knuckling life) masks anxiety[6:40] Are “The Overs” taking over?[10:23] Asking ourselves questions is the perfect starting placeResources:Strong Like Water; Aundi KolberSabbath: Wayne Muller Peace is a Practice: Morgan Harper Nichols Let Your Life Speak: Parker Palmer The Next Right Thing Podcast: Why Self Care isn’t Selfish If you enjoyed the show:Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeSupport the show

In this episode, Carrie welcomes guest author and therapist Cathy Loerzel to discuss the importance of embracing grief and negative emotions in order to heal and move forward. The conversation draws from three archetype characters of past wounding and how it shows up in our lives and relationships with others. The episode emphasizes the necessity of dealing with past wounds which leads to healthier lives and the ability to handle present challenges. It offers hope in understanding and addressing the core wounds of orphanhood, stranger, and widowhood, and encourages individuals to press into their pain and grief towards their own healing journeys. Ep.138; July 25, 2023Key Moments:[1:26] Healing past wounds for a better present[6:20] Three different “characters” of our pain[8:53] Our kids reveal to us places we need more healing [16:18] Learning to recognize and embrace lament's powerResources:Cathy Loerzel’s WebsiteCathy’s InstagramRedeeming HeartacheWild Edge of SorrowIf you enjoyed the show:Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeSupport the show

Join Amy and therapist and author of “Try Softer” and “Strong Like Water,” Aundi Kolber, as they delve into the concept of "try softer," the idea of giving compassion to navigate the challenges of parenting children with complex medical or emotional issues. They recognize the validity of responding from a place of danger or crisis while also exploring the transformative power of paying compassionate attention to our own experiences. By turning towards reality with compassion, we can process and move on from threats, accurately assess our own needs, and create practices for healing. Discover the importance of acknowledging pain, finding support, and ultimately experiencing goodness and healing simultaneously in this illuminating episode. Ep,137; July 18, 2023Key Moments:[2:48] Honor the reality, respond with compassion. [9:15] Importance of grounding and connecting with your support people[21:15] Moving beyond your crisis/situational strength[33:29] How to help siblings work through situations without trauma themselvesResources:Try SofterStrong Like Water Aundi’s Website IG: @aundikolber If you enjoyed the show:Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeSupport the show

Amy welcomes writer Jennifer Dukes Lee as she reflects on a picture from 20 years ago when she and her husband made the bold decision to leave their successful careers behind and embark on a journey of farming. Amidst the doubts from others, Jennifer’s journey of slow growth vs. hurried comparison taught her how to relinquish control. They discuss the cultural pressure of progress, achieving results, and the profound lessons learned, including the realization that the best things in life take time. Join us for a fun conversation about how slow growth can give you life! Ep.136; July 11, 2023Key Moments:[2:45] Life isn't linear. It’s circular.[9:43] Practical ways to grow slow[18:50] Spending time with children creates unexpected memories[20:42] Seasons teach us about growth and life[25:08] Finding beauty and growth in difficult times[30:34] New guided journal with writing promptsResources:Growing Slow Stuff I'd Only Tell God: A Guided Journal of Courageous Honesty, Obsessive Truth-Telling, and Beautifully Ruthless Self-Discovery Jennifer’s Website If you enjoyed the show:We have a new book! The Other Side of SpecialSubscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeSupport the show

Carrie is joined by guest Marissa Bondurant, author of the Bible Study “Who Cares for You?”  Marissa draws parallels between her own experiences as a caregiver for her daughter undergoing medical treatments and the humble acts of service performed by Jesus.  They discuss living out our faith through everyday tasks and self-sacrifice, allowing others to see Jesus at work in us. Marissa also talks about the challenges faced by being a caregiver and responding to others’ perceptions, the importance of community support, and the need to bring hidden thoughts and feelings into the open. This episode brings a message of hope, reminding you that God sees, cares, and walks with you on your difficult journey. Ep.135; July 4, 2023Key Moments:[4:00] Becoming a Caregiver: Marissa's Journey[10:48] “I don’t know how you do it!” [19:00] Shifting perspective from burden to gift[24:11] Overcoming guilt because of our child’s needs[28:49] The burden of making others comfortable[32:54] God's mercy that is sustaining usResources:Marissa Bondurant’s WebsiteWho Cares For You? A 4-Week Bible Study For CaregiversMarissa’s InstagramMarissa’s FacebookIf you enjoyed the show:Grab your copy of The Other Side of SpecialSubscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeSupport the show

On this episode, Amy speaks with author, Lisa Qualls, who is an adoptive mom and shares her experience parenting children with trauma and the resulting blocked care. She talks about the challenges they faced and how their family has changed because of their children's needs. Lisa also discusses her book, The Connected Parent, which provides practical and honest tools for parenting children with trauma, and emphasizes the importance of seeking support from trauma-informed counselors. Lisa believes we can reclaim compassion by releasing the idea that we can completely heal our children. Join us for an insightful and eye-opening conversation. Ep.134; June 27, 2023Key Moments:[07:07] Admitting you need help with traumatized kids [11:45] Grieving old family dynamics [15:30] Blocked care: stress-induced defense mechanism in parenting [19:44] Compassion for self and child's trauma. [27:24] Reclaim Compassion: regulate your nervous system, not gritting your teeth Resources:The Connected Child The Connected ParentThe Whole Brain Child Reclaim CompassionThe Adoption ConnectionIG@lisacqualls If you enjoyed the show:Order our book: The Other Side of SpecialSubscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeSupport the show

Sara talks with writer and professor, Dr. Lynne Baab, who shares her wisdom on carrying both grief and gratitude in one's life. Lynne offers practical tips and advice for nurturing a gratitude practice, improving listening skills, and navigating difficult emotions such as sadness and anger. The conversation also delves into the challenges of receiving unsolicited advice and the importance of finding a supportive community. Ep.133; June 20, 2023Key Moments:[2:46] Grief and gratitude both stretch you[10:20] How we deny gratitude in our American culture[14:28] Our perspective shift as Christians[18:38] Prayer is key for grief and gratitude balance[23:52] Listening is a skill that can improve[30:49] Anger & sadness are taboo in Christian society[33:51] Learning to listen and finding spiritual directionResources:https://www.lynnebaab.com Two Hands: Grief and Gratitude in the Christian Life by Lynne M. BaabJoy Together: Spiritual Practices for Your Congregation by Lynne M. BaabSabbath Keeping: Finding Freedom in the Rhythms of Rest by Lynne M. BaabPrayers of the Old Testament (LifeGuide Bible Studies) by Lynne M. BaabPrayers of the New Testament (LifeGuide Bible Studies) by Lynne M. BaabGrief AND thankfulness: How to Listen an article by Lynne M. Baab*Lynne Baab has a friend who is expanding her spiritual direction practice, Lisa Keosababian. Lisa conducts spiritual direction by zoom, so location is no problem: https://www.spiritualdirectionwithlisa.com    If you enjoyed the show:Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeSupport the show

Carrie talks with author Johnna Hensley, a mother of three biological and three adopted children, including her firstborn son, who has a trach and a ventilator. We hear the thought processes behind their decision to foster, then adopt more children with an open-handed willingness to follow God’s leading.  They call it walking in "yes" and being open to what God has, even if it leads to difficult circumstances. Throughout the episode, Johnna emphasizes the importance of faith in God's sovereignty and generosity and His promise to provide.Ep. 132; June 13, 2023Key Moments:[2:45] Supporting her son's grief journey [5:51] Importance of giving autonomy to children when they are able [7:00] Deciding to become adoptive parents after biological children and a diagnosis [10:31] Walking in "yes" until it became a "no"  [13:11] The world’s brokenness makes heaven brighter[17:18] What I would say to my younger selfResources:Johnna Hensley’s WebsiteJohnna’s Instagram & FacebookThe Bible Recap PodcastReckless YesIf you enjoyed the show:Order our book: The Other Side of SpecialSubscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeSupport the show

Amy Brown talks with Emily P. Freeman, author, and podcast host of The Next Right Thing, about what happens in the space between when we have a decision to make and when the decision is made. Emily talks about the importance of doing one thing at a time and how decluttering our inner life can help us make clear and confident decisions. Emily’s journal, the Next Right Thing Journal, helps her in her practice of reflection and encourages her to notice patterns. Both she and Amy use it to process their lives to help make decisions with ease. June 6, 2023; Ep. 131Title: Discerning Your Next Right Thing: An Interview with Emily P FreemanKey Moments:[4:04] Soul minimalism and decision-fatigue[8:19] Trust yourself towards the best decision at the time[10:26] Focus on becoming better through decision-making, even if the outcome is not ideal[15:02] Improving decision-making [17:36] Reflecting on past decisions can lead to confident future decisions[21:09] Benefits of The Next Right Thing Journal Resources:Emily P. Freeman.com If you enjoyed the show:Order our book: The Other Side of SpecialSubscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Follow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeSupport the show

When Sara, Amy and Carrie met, they discovered a shared sense of determination and drive to care for their children and support each other. In their new book, The Other Side of Special, they share their individual stories and hope to offer encouragement and hope to other special needs families. Sara discusses her struggles with emotions towards God, the challenges she faced in caring for a child with disabilities, and the importance of relying on God and her community for support. She shares that despite not being alone, she often felt lonely. Sara expresses that the special needs family community understands you like no one else does. Ep.130; May 30, 2023Key Moments:[0:43] Receiving a diagnosis changed our lives[3:13] Feeling alone despite having loving and supportive family and friends[5:19] Suppressing messy emotions causes anger[8:11] Feel various emotions and struggles, but find solace in God and supportive friends[13:10] Bonding over the slew of emotions that a caregiver feelsIf you enjoyed the show:Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeSchedule a free 30-minute chat with Sara Support the show

Take Heart’s host, Carrie, shares her personal experience as a mother to a child with Spina Bifida, who has undergone 61 surgeries. She talks about how having a child with a disability can feel like being in a pit and how God sustains and loves us even in the hardest times. She encourages us to let God write our own story, even the painful parts, and to let go of unrealistic expectations and having all the boxes checked. Carrie also shares the reasons why you should write your story down, keep anything that brings you encouragement and allow God to give you what you need each day. Ep. 129; May 23, 2023; Key Moments:[1:33] Toby’s diagnosis and medical needs[5:10] Reading my journals from this time period[6:34] Our story is a story of scars[11:00] God will give you a new song Resources:Psalm 40:1-3The Other Side of SpecialScars by I Am TheyIf you enjoyed the show:Grab a copy of our book The Other Side of SpecialSubscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeSupport the show

Co-Host Amy J. Brown shares her life and adoption journey in reference to Take Heart hosts’ newly released book, “The Other Side of Special.” She addresses the struggles and challenges that come with being a mother dealing with the invisible disabilities of their children. She shares her journey of adopting children, including one with fetal alcohol syndrome, which led to many emotional and mental difficulties. She shares candidly in the book about her experiences in hopes that it helps other mothers with similar struggles to know that they are not alone and are valued by God.Ep. 128; May 16, 2023Key Moments:[2:06] Amy’s struggle with infertility and adoption decisions[6:42] Feelings of loneliness[7:54] When the family doesn’t want to understand[8:56] Sharing the journey[9:25] You are not alone in this journeyResources:The Other Side of SpecialIf you enjoyed the show:Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeSupport the show

As we celebrate the release of our new book, The Other Side of Special, we share about how we met and what we have learned as we have spent time together collaborating on the book and our podcast. Even though our children have very different diagnoses, we have realized we have so much in common which lends itself to caring for each other! Being vulnerable with each other but more importantly, in writing this book, can be difficult but we have seen God’s redemption in those stories which motivates us to continue. We have been so encouraged by your support of us and want to celebrate with you! Ep.127; May 9, 2023Key Moments:[0:20] Our book, The Other Side of Special, is here today![4:42] Join us at the “Lake House”[11:30] We learn empathy by hearing others' stories[20:35] The importance of being honest about emotions[25:42] Our book is not a ‘how-to’[26:50] Pay attention to our body and name those emotionsResources:Purchase the Other Side of SpecialEpisode 100: Story Behind Take HeartIf you enjoyed the show:Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeTake Heart is supported by our listeners. We may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through links on our site.Support the show

On this episode of Take Heart Special Mom Podcast, we delve into the importance of self-care for special needs moms. Sara England, a mother of three, shares her experience with burnout and the lessons she's learned about prioritizing her wellness. We discuss the challenges of balancing self-care with the demands of caring for a child with special needs, strategies for setting boundaries and saying no, and the importance of small moments of joy. The episode also covers the speaker's struggles with infertility, miscarriage, and her journey to prioritize self-care to keep her rejuvenated for the long haul.  Join us to learn actionable tips for implementing self-care into your daily routine and how even small actions can lead to personal growth and change. Eps. 126; May 2, 2023Key Moments:[1:12]  From a nurse to a stay-at-home mom[7:18] Sara’s infertility journey[15:07] Hitting a wall & setting up boundaries[18:46] Taking care of your children is taking care of you[24:05] Burned out[28:35] How much is too much for our kids and therapy?[32:56] Mental assessment…what brings me joy? Resources:Check out Sara’s FREE Special Need Moms Survival Guide! Sara also has a FREE Caregiver Burnout guide to help you begin to heal and prevent burnout! The Fitness Planner: A 12 Week Health and Fitness Journal to Track Meals, Workouts and Weight Loss for Women - Exercise and Food JournalIf you enjoyed the show:One week left to pre order The Other Side of SpecialSubscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeTake Heart is supported by our listeners. We may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through links on our site.Support the show

On this episode of Take Heart Special Mom Podcast, Carrie M Holt welcomes Todd and Kristin Evans, who share their personal struggles in their marriage while navigating their lives as special needs parents. Both Todd and Kristin emphasize the importance of self-care, reflective listening, and validation of emotions between spouses. They stress the need for open communication and finding ways to navigate ongoing grief as a couple. They also reveal practical skills they learned through therapy that can help couples navigate the unique challenges they face. This episode offers valuable insight and support for those struggling with the demands of caring for a special needs child while maintaining a healthy and happy relationship. Ep.125; April 25, 2023Key Moments:[5:49] Todd and Kristen’s different experiences with grief[12:40] Sharing feelings and being vulnerable is important in dealing with grief [17:49] Spouses react differently to grief [20:20] Support is key[21:23] Practice reflective listening in your marriage. [25:56]Managing the stress togetherResources:Disability ParentingKristin & Todd on InstagramKristin’s Facebook GroupIf you enjoyed the show:Preorder The Other Side of SpecialSubscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeTake Heart is supported by our listeners. We may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through links on our site.Support the show

Jodie Pine shares her experience and insight from adopting two boys with special needs, one with clubbed feet and the other with Spina Bifida. Through the challenges of raising a child with significant special needs, she was led to look at her kids through the lens of wholeness instead of deficits. She emphasizes the importance of accepting children for who they are rather than focusing on their progress or appearance and her perspective from feeling like she had to fix everything to allowing her sons to be her teacher.Ep. 124; April 18, 2023Key Moments:[3:56] Jodie’s adoption and diagnosis story[9:27] Allowing her child to be her teacher[13:22] What is living life to its fullest?[14:45] Learning to pay attention[21:39] Not looking to the medical community for breakthrough[28:59] Joni Erickson-Tada Beyond SufferingResources:Radical AcceptanceThis Here FleshJoni and Friends: Beyond Suffering Joni and Friends Family CampSoul Care Institute Jodie’s BlogUnfinished If you enjoyed the show:Join our Book Launch Team HerePreorder The Other Side of SpecialGoodreads GiveawaySubscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Follow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclimeSupport the show