To kick off our Summer Book Club series, Gretchen and Jennifer are discussing Chapter One Again by Keelia Clarkson. This new release is a thoughtful novel that explores the universal search for purpose, the longing for recognition, and the pursuit of life’s “mountaintop” moments.

Some of the discussion includes discovering faith, finding meaning in unexpected places, and how the quiet rhythms of small-town life often cultivate the things that matter most. There are so many layers of connections and relationships in this book, all with their own unique struggles and passions, and it left us eager to discover what lies ahead for each of them.

We hope you’ll find a moment with us for this rich conversation, and don’t miss our next episode when we’ll have the privilege of interviewing Keelia Clarkson herself!

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Are you interested in learning more about following the rhythms of the liturgical calendar? Have you been curious but unsure of where to start?

This standalone episode provides a brief overview of all of the different church calendar seasons, with a focus on our present season of Ordinary Time.

Moving from Advent all the way through to Pentecost gives us the opportunity to witness the work of Jesus’s life and ministry all the way through the Ascension. Shortly after, we observe Pentecost, which is when we are given the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Ordinary Time is an invitation for us to apply the wisdom and encouragement we have received through Christ’s example. We are called to minister to our neighbors, care for widows and orphans, and serve our families in our everyday lives, drawing on the power of the Holy Spirit which is available to all believers.

From a practical standpoint, Gretchen also shares about her rule of life, weekly examen, and some of the tools and resources that are available in our show notes if you would like to build more structure into your inner spiritual life.

Cultivating depth and intention in your spiritual life requires time and patience with your own personal progress, and this conversation will hopefully steer you towards next steps in your journey of sanctification and faithfulness. We hope you’ll find a moment to listen.

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In this episode of Honest Parenting, Gretchen and Jennifer sit down with a mother of three adult children. Keri is Gretchen’s neighbor, and two of her children have special needs, requiring lifelong daily care.

This conversation explores the space between our parenting ideals and the realities of everyday life, and how differently that journey can unfold when raising children with special needs. With remarkable strength and honesty, Keri shares a life marked by service, advocacy for her children’s needs, and the outpouring of support that has sustained her family along the way.

Other notable mentions include the importance of radical acceptance, the grief that often lingers beneath the surface, the impact of caregiving on marriage, and the challenge of reimagining aging, end-of-life planning, and lifelong care. We hope you’ll find a moment to listen to this powerful conversation about resilience, community, and unconditional love.

Show Notes: www.medicinemotherhood.com/blog/honestparenting

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