About
Hi! My name is Kat. My sweet husband Jimmy and I have 3 children ages 8, 6 and 3. I love music, running, Jesus and Tex-Mex food. Not necessarily in that order.
My Story…
Here’s a bit of my motherhood story. I hope it encourages you:
More Random Bits of Info…
In my free time (because all stay at home moms have tons of free time), I like to run (I use the word like very loosely) and write about faith, family, music, techie stuff and awesome singers who perform in my living room (It’s a life highlight for a music freak like myself. I had to link to it. Enjoy).
I also enjoy making parenthetical statements.
I adore my husband, I have two beautiful daughters (8 and 6) and a handsome son (3). I get to stay home with my kids….and my husband (he works from home too).
What I Don’t Want You To Know About Me
Blogging tends to be about showing off the good stuff. If you want to know what I STINK at, here a list of 25 Things (I Don’t Want You To Know) About Me.
What I Believe
And You?
I’d love to learn a bit about you! If you’re so inclined, tell me a little about yourself in the comments – here:
1. Name (or pseudonym)
2. Where are you from?
3. What do you do?
::
(If this post inspired you, will you consider sharing it and inspiring someone else?)
{ 93 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi I’m Jessica. I’m from the awesome state of Texas. I am a stay at home(school) mom of 4. I am in love with your e-book. I have shared it with my friend and she loves it too! I look forward to reading your new blog. Thanks!
Jessica,
I’m from Texas too, and it IS awesome. I’m so glad you like the ebook and I do hope to see you around here often. I’m sure you have a lot of wisdom to share with us.
That is so neat! I live in the Austin area.
I tend to dabble in a lot of different areas of interest never becoming an expert at one particular thing. But I guess that in itself is helpful.
I hope to be able to contribute something
i am also good at too many things and interested in so many also ! Hoping its helpful as well, just challenged by reading about creating a mission statement – since i want to do the Spirit’s leading, i tend to not want to over “schedule” my day with my own plans – in theory – but i still plan plenty – just not accomplishing anything earth shattering… i’m digesting this idea of a mission statement .. enjoying this blog so far… the I Believe Creed music was great!
Hi Kat. I’m Lisa but most online call me by Sisterlisa. I’m from Northern California and I homeschool my four kiddos and run several blogs with my 3 daughters. We also own a new upcoming online business called Pix-O-Sphere Corp.. We’re pretty busy, but very social. ;O) In some spare time I play Legos with my son, Timmy.
Sisterlisa,
Wow! You’re a busy woman! Thanks for taking the time to introduce yourself. I look forward to getting to know you.
Hey, Kat! Isn’t it funny…. your first 2 comments are from homeschooling moms of four, and I’m a homeschooling mom of 2 in the process of expanding our family by two more! Crazy… 3 homeschooling moms of 4 in a row.
(That’s the first time I’ve referred to myself as a mom of 4. It is weird.)
I’m in Alabama, but I am not a hick.
I used to be a writer, but that is on hold for now. I’m coming to terms with it slowly.
Sarah,
That IS ironic. I wonder who’s going to break the streak.
I don’t know if I knew that you are from Alabama. We visited there a couple years ago. It was gorgeous.
Hi Kat!
I am a mother of 3 (same ages as your kids), from Colorado. I am an author, speaker and eternal realist! Sorry to say I am not a homeschooling mother (gasp). I know it is just not my calling~ Enjoying your blog/site!
An author? Very cool. Please don’t check my grammar too carefully.
Thanks for breaking the trend. I was beginning to think I need to add a kid and start homeschooling in order to fit in on my own blog.
Hi Kat,
I am putting you back on track. I am a homeschool mom of 4 from Houston, Texas!!! I love your ebook and went through the steps (including buying worship cds – a treat fro me) to get myself going. I can’t wait for this blog to begin.
May G,
This trend is hilarious.
Houston? Jimmy and I lived in The Woodlands for several years and I used to work at KSBJ.
Eat at Pappasitos for me sometime.
My kids and I love KSBJ! Our last kid is an “extra” blessing from God. He is our third “last” kid as my husband puts it.
oops, sorry, that was meant to be posted as a reply to the last post. It’s late and I need to go to bed….
Hi Y’all,
I’m thrilled to be joining you from Canada and only hope I’ll be able to
contribute regularly. Kat, I used lots of tips from your e-book in a recent
workshop I helped with at our church on rejuvenation.
I’m a publicschooler of 80 teenagers and homeschooler of 2 (2.5 and 8 months! )
I returned to school (work) this week with mixed emotions and hope that participating in your blog will be an encouragement for me and others like
me who struggle with working outside the home.
God has placed in my Titus 2:5 as well as Prov 31 and I pray for balance
every day.
Blessings,
P
Pamela,
Nice to meet you! Canada, that’s where Jimmy and I went on our honeymoon. Banff. It. Was. Gorgeous.
Hi Kat,
I’m a transplanted Yankee, living in Hong Kong right now. I downloaded your e-book and have really enjoyed reading it. My favorite thing is that you appear “real”. Your honesty is refreshing, and I can relate to an imperfect role model.
By the way, when we were in the states, I was a homeschooling mom of 4, but now I’m an international school mom of 4, lol.
Deanne, way over here on the other side of the world
Deanne,
Hong Kong! Very, very cool. Do you have a blog? I’d love to read about your life abroad.
Hi! I’m Tiffany – mommy to two boys (4 & 2 1/2) and one girl
Let’s try this again…I got interrupted by a 2 year old who wants a tubby & a 7 month old who is tired of her swing
I’m Tiffany – mommy to two boys (4 & 2 1/2) and one girl (7 months). We are from a small community in Kansas. I came across your blog from a link on another blog & I am VERY excited about it! Thank you so much for the free e-book. I’m printing it today!
Ha – I know all about those interruptions. It’s nice to meet you Tiffany!
Hi! My name is Brianna. But you all can call me Bria (‘cuz that’s what my friends call me). =) I live in a small town in northeastern Ohio, where the cows moo loudly and the amish drive their buggies on the street in front of my house all day long. It’s really beautiful here. I am stay-home-mom to two beautiful daughters, ages 8 and 5. I send my oldest to public school on the bus everyday and take my five-year-old to preschool three times a week, but I greatly admire those of you whom God has called to homeschooling. (Sorry — guess I don’t fit the main mold here. — pretty true of my whole life, actually.) I also love to write and am working on a blog while figuring out how to be the mom, wife, woman that God has called me to be.
Bria – I’m not a homeschooler, so I guess I don’t fit the main mold here either!
I just saw this part of your blog, so though I already commented elsewhere, I thought I would say a bit more. I live in Central Illinois (just for a year and a half so far–originally from the East coast–we’re still adjusting to our new life and location!). And I have three kids–all girls–that are 3 1/2, 2, and 3 mos. So life stays busy!
And fun! At least most days! My husband is an asst. pastor at our church (the reason for our move), and I’m a stay-at-home mom. So thanks for the new blog!
Welcome aboard Erika!!!
Hi! I am Heather and and I am a proud SAHM of 4 beautiful little girls ages 6, 5, 3 and 18 months. I love your e-book and I have VERY slowly started incorporating your steps it into my mornings. I am working on a post about my morning routines and I will include a link to your blog. Thanks!
Welcome Heather!
Thanks for the link. I’ve really enjoyed reading your blog…so many great ideas, recipes and inspirations. Thanks!
-Kat
Julie
Tampa, FL
I am a licensed family home childcare provider. I have 4 beautiful daughters ages 19, 17, 14, & 4. I have been married to Patrick for 20 yrs in March:)
I am so encouraged by your e-book and blog. Thank you:)
Julie,
You’re quite welcome! 3 teenage girls and one 4 year old girl? I can barely handle the drama in my house and I only have 2 girls. You deserve some sort of badge or something.
I’m Jennifer from a small town in Missouri. I have two kids. Almost 11 and 7. Mine do go to public school and I run a small in home daycare for teachers. I have 4 kids that I care for during the day….ages 3, 2, 2, and 9 mos. I’ve been happily married to a wonderful man for 11 years. I am excited about the possibilities before me as I follow your blog and grow to be a better woman, mother, and wife of great faith and love for the Lord.
Jennifer,
We just went on vacation to Missouri over the holidays. Loved it!
3, 2, 2, and 9 months. Whew. That makes me tired just thinking about it. And then to adjust to such a different age group with your own children after school. I’m way impressed.
I hope all those possibilities you dream of become a very present reality.
-Kat
Hi, I’m Sherice.
We love each other and the Lord and are looking forward to what His master plan is for our lives!
My family and I live in Southern York County of Pennsylvania. I am a new stay at home mom with 2 girls, 2 and 6 mo. My husband is a minister and we in the beginning stages of planting a church among many other things. We live my in-laws and my husband’s other 3 siblings. It’s a full house will all 9 of us and our 2 dogs
Hi Sherice! A 2 year old and a 6 month old and a house of 9! I’m sure you have quite the busy life. Thank for taking the time to introduce yourself!
I don’t seem to fit the mold of most of your audience but that’s okay with me. Hi, I’m Mary from Indiana. I’m 42 yrs old and the mother of a 14 year old boy. My husband and I will celebrate our 29th anniversary this year. I have worked as an accountant for the same commercial broadcasting (radio/tv) for 21 years (this month!). Life seems pretty chaotic these days and I’ve never seemed to get this whole motherhood thing figured out. I’m hoping to get it right these next few years so that we can all enjoy the high school years together before my son takes off for college.
That should be, we are celebrating our 20th anniversary this year. We were young, but not THAT young!
Mary,
I’m so glad you took the time to introduce yourself! There’s no mold here. Just a group of women who want to be great moms.
It seems as though you are a wonderfully faithful woman. Married for 20 years and working at the same business for 21 years. That’s amazing. Congrats! You’re a great example for your son.
Hello Kat,
Greetings from Houston. I stumbled upon your blog and I am so encouraged by your family, your love for God and the desire for the same for your children. Just wanted to thank you for the wonderful e-book! I know your book was written for wives and mothers. I’m not married yet but I have 21 little ones (I’m a teacher!) Your book has helped me get started with a morning routine to take care of myself and to pray for all my kiddos. Thanks so much!
Hi Monica!
Your students are very privileged to have such a wonderful and dedicated teacher. Thanks so much for introducing yourself. I hope to see you around here often.
Kat
Hi Kat – I’ve commented before on your other blog, but thought I’d leave a comment here too. I live in beautiful Durban, South Africa with my husband, new baby (4 month old boy) and two crazy dogs. We are church planters who are starting a church (from scratch!) in August. I was a children’s pastor for 10 years before now being a stay-at-home mom (who helps her husband with the new church). Oh, before moving to Africa we hailed from Memphis, TN.
I’m from Minnesota, from a small town west of the Twin Cities. I have two grown sons and a 15-year-old daughter and two and 8/9 grandkids. (The first grandmother to comment by the looks of things.) My husband and I will celebrate our 30th anniversary in a month. I work in a very quiet office with time to surf the web, circumspectly.
Google recommended your blog, based on the others I follow. Your postings on Mission Statements have really intrigued me. I worked on one a few years ago, but the books I used to give me direction were not Christian and thus not very helpful. I still struggle with purpose and have no idea what my passions are. Prayer, especially for my family. I suppose is one. I look forward to checking out your postings in that area too.
BTW-I did homeschool my sons. My daughter, Miss Social Butterfly, needed to be around others.
They call me ‘Linny’
I’m FROM Oklahoma; I currently find myself in California (Visalia, that is)
I am a wife, mom, conversationalist, digital scrapbooker, blogger (http://linnybest.com)…@linny on twitter …o and linnybest on words with friends…ha!…and I love reading other Mom’s blogs and getting inspired to be everything I want to be as a Wife, a Mom, a friend, a Christ-follower.
Hey there. I’m from Melbourne, Australia. My friend found your blog and sent me the link. I must say its just what I needed – a little inspiration. I have 3 boys, 4, 2 and 10 weeks old. We have just started our own business (my husband’s) and also embarking on renovations so things here are pretty crazy and I am always in need of encouragement with my Christian walk – especially because I want my kids to desire a relationship with Christ. Thanks for sharing!
Well, I am Jesica, yep, with on ‘s’. I live in the Flathead Valley of northwest Montana, in a little town on the shore of Flathead lake. I do all sorts of things, but most of my time is spent caring for my sweet son and loving my handsome hubby. I have the good fortune to be a SAHM – so I volunteer @ bigskybiblecamp.org and try to find other ways too have some adult conversation while using the gifts God has given me. I am so glad that I found your site because I am in dire need of a little help on how to be a mom and a passionate Christ-follower! It is so nice to meet you.
I’m Lisa, and I’m a 28 year old SAHM to oh-so-cute Oliver! We live in beautiful North Georgia, where we will never leave, because everywhere else gets too hot or too cold! I have been married to my high school sweet heart for six years, and we’ll be celebrating seven years this August. My husband Levi works for a flexible company that allows him to work from home three days a week! It is so amazing to be able to spend all my time with my family!! God is so good.
I am so blessed to have stumbled upon your sites, Kat! God is using you in big ways…keep it up!
My friend emailed me your site today…and I must say, she knows me well. I think your words are speaking to my heart…and the Holy Spirit is working in me to make some changes.
I’m Annette. Wife and mom. I love living in rural PA with my husband, 3 yo daughter, and 1 yo son. Derek and I have been married for nearly seven years. I enjoy lots of things like reading, crafts (for my preschooler and me), and just time with the family. I don’t enjoy when yelling comes from my mouth in the form of “discipline” or snippy comments to my husband…but they happen.
Thank you for a place to be encouraged and to grow.
Hi!! I found your site this week and am just getting a chance to comment!! I’m Kristi (hi!!). I’m from central Ohio. I’m a mom to 2 boys (Max is 2 and 1/2 and Jake just turned 1) and due in October with baby #3!!! I stay at home during the week with them and work full time on weekends night shift as a pharmacist at a local hospital. The way I see it it’s the best of both worlds!!
I’m in desperate need of this blog (and your ebook…thank you!!) and so excited to find a community of like minded women!!! The first trimester of this pregnancy is making it tough to wake early, but I’m excited to live purposefully and get it together!!!
Forgot to mention my wonderful supportive husband Jason!!! (I’ve worked all night).
I also blog (when I can), a wanna be scrapbooker, gardener, (and attempting to be a better wife, mom, and homemaker).
Hi Kat! My name is Meagan and I live in Texas, although I was born and raised in Washington state. My amazing husband and I have been married for 13 years and we have 3 great kiddos – ages 10, 7, and 5. I am able to stay at home with my family and I am so thankful for that.
I heard about your ebook on a blog, although I cannot for the life of me remember which one it was. I downloaded and printed your ebook and have been so blessed by it. It is exactly what I needed. The last 5 days I have set my alarm for 6:00am and rolled out of bed right away to spend some time with the Lord…no excuses! I tend to be a hit the snooze 10 times kind of gal.
When I was reading through one of your posts last week I came upon something you said that really hit home…”What’s your dream? Imagine a scenario. And when your alarm goes off, remember that no amount of sleep or warmth will make that scenario a reality.” I will never become the wife and mother I desire to be by staying in bed to catch a few extra winks. I need that time to spend with my Savior because if I don’t do it first thing in the morning, it is highly unlikely it will happen once the busyness of the day kicks in…sad, but true.
Thanks so much for your insight and encouragement!
I’m Amanda, and I have 2 sweet boys, 4 and 2. My husband and I are in the process of planting a church in Kansas City- it is a wild ride, but so fun! I am excited to process through my mornings and try to find some more structure! thanks for your ideas!
hey kat! annalea from central illinois here. wife to jesse, stay at home mama to a 5yo boy, a 3yo girl and a 4mo bundle of baby boy. lovin’ the blog so far. thanks for sharing your heart and God-given wisdom!
Wow, Kat – I must say I don’t think I fit any categories of your other commenters, except I am so glad I found your blog. I’m Melissa, 42, Indiana, wishing I stayed at home, but don’t. When I am home, I’m so glad to be there with my husband, (who happens to be an alcoholic, but I’m praying every day that God will change that,) two kiddos, 14 & 12, we have a 19 y-o (my stepdaughter) away at college, and a fantastic dog. I work, love to blog, go on mission trips, craft, bake and cook, garden.
Your statement in your mission that you want to have your husband feel “loved, cared for and admired” really hit a cord with me. I want that for my husband as well, but it isn’t going very well at the moment. I know God has a different plan for us, and He already knows the outcome. Meanwhile, I strive to follow Jesus, and be His hands and feet to my family and my church. I hope to do a bettter job of that, and to be faithful while I wait upon the Lord. Thanks for a Fantastic blog!
Hi Melissa…another 42 year old hoosier girl! Love it! I just wanted to say ‘hang in there’. I grew up with an alcoholic father and have been married to my husband, who was diagnosed with a mental illness in 2002, for almost 20 years. I know where you are coming from. I too struggle with being the wife God would want me to be because it’s hard to support, submit to and (some days) even like someone whose behaviors you can’t accept or understand. We are all in this together!
First, I want to say THANK YOU for this website!!! Also, thank you for the Maximize Your Mornings eBook and for making it free! I printed it yesterday and am putting it into action on Monday morning.
1. Name (or pseudonym)
2. Where are you from?
3. What do you do?
My name is Liz…I’ll be 30 at the end of June. Today is my 5 year anniversary with my husband!! (http://www.housekeepinginprogress.com/2010/04/happy-anniversary-honey.html) We have two children, a 3year old boy and 3.5 month old baby girl. I have struggled with being the homemaker/wife/mother that God wants me to be. I’m new in Christ (just over 5 years) and still have LOTS to learn. Just recently I’ve become more motivated to letting Him influence my entire life.
Thankful to have found your blog and feel God led me here for a reason! I will be 30 in a few months, and I am a stay at home mom with an (almost) 3 year old daughter and a (just turned) 1 year old son. I always wanted to be in this place (married and staying home with babies) but am struggling with the reality that it is not often glamorous or easy! God has been nudging me to realize I need to turn my days around to focus on Him! Thanks for sharing your thoughts and inspiration in this blog!
Kat–
you have always been one of my heroes! from 9th grade choir to graduation, you lit up my day and gave me the strength to learn about religion and the better side of life. You have quite the folllowing here, and your blog is fabulous. Now that I am a new mom–certainly without the patience to home school or stay at home–I will do my best with your helpful hints. You continue to be my hero every day. Bless you and your family, and we need to get together on some trip between here and there; it really isn’t that far.(semicolon used just for you!)
Melissa
. I’m a Jesus lover, sin hater, wife of the most amazing breakfast cook, husband and father.
Long Island, NY – looking to relocate (any suggestions?)
I am a full time child wrangler, ages 4, 2 1/2 and 1. (aka stay at home mom). I also blog, and am working on a few other projects (in all my spare time as well
I have no idea how I came across your blog here, but I’m already inspired to action! I’ll be catching up on lots of old posts here, looks like some real practical, helpful stuff…and I can use all the help I can get.
Hey there- My name is Kristina. I live in a SMALL community in south Georgia. My friend Karen emailed me your link to the Husband and Children Prayer Calendars (LOVE THEM!!!) I have a 4 year old, girl, with dreams of at least one more
We are planning on homeschooling her. I am a stay at home mom/ Photographer (www.kkesslerphotography.com)
I have just started reading your blog, but am LOVIN’ it so far! You rock!!
God is Good!
Kristina
Hi Kat,
I live in Vancouver, Canada and am a mother of two great kids who are my biggest teachers. My son is 7, my daughter 5. I am a medical doctor, life coach, writer and seeker of Truth. I recognize and respect Jesus as an enlightened master, but am not Christian – I believe there are many paths to realizing our Divinity. So I dig reading about you going for it and being authentically you in walking your path. I’ve really enjoyed finding your site. And for the record, I think this motherhood stuff is waaaaaaay harder than pre-med, medical school and residency combined. At least with 36 hrs on call straight, you got to go home the next day at 6 pm to sleep! Try that with a newborn – not! Thanks again and I’ve already shared a few blogs with colleagues and sister-women friends.
Hi! I’m Danielle, a mommy of 2 boys ages 3 and 22 months. We live in So. California. While there are many things I enjoy, cooking, reading, tennis, among others, it seems the only things I have the time and energy for these days are being a wife, mommy, and trying (Ha!) to maintain our home. Thanks for your blog!
Hi Kat, I’m Kelly and the mama to my nearly 6 year old son, Aiden. We live in Hoboken, NJ at the moment, but have lived in many other places. This month we’re moving to Nyack, NY. Before living here we lived in the Mojave Desert in Cali, outside of Bennington, VT, a horse farm in Brunswick, NY and then Schuylerville, NY and Saratoga Springs, NY. We plan on putting our roots down for a good amount of time in Nyack and can’t wait. I saw a bunch of stuff about Texas here.. my Husband is from San Antonio and my son’s father lives in Texarkana (Texas side)!
So besides moving, I also bake (in the process of starting a baking business) do yoga, run, read, and just keep on learning and teaching:).
I’m loving all the tips on your site here and look forward to reading bits of it each day. Very inspiring! I feel very blessed to have stumbled on to it.
Hi I am Janey and I am the same as the initial posters, 4 kids and I homeschool! My girls are 10 1/2 and 17 months and my boys are 9 and 7. We got an added blessing with our baby surprise – God does answer prayer!
Anyway we are in Idaho and I have really enjoyed your blog. I just found it last week.
I use to have good morning habits but have struggled to get back on track since our baby joined us (I know, too long!). I have printed your ebooks and look forward to reading them.
Hey Kat!
So looking forward to meeting you at Relevant. Just stopped by to read this from Stacey’s link up. Would love for you to stop by the Tommy Nelson booth so we can chat – love the part of your mission that says “raise children who are prepared to change the world.”
Abby!
Hey Kat,
I’m Anna from Salt Lake City Ut. My best friend Lauren got me on your blog and I am SO hooked!!! You are so encouraging and inspire me to me the best mom I can be to my little girl! I am a mommy of 1, so far.. My daughter’s name is Jordana Joy, she is the biggest blessing and the greatest joy to me and my husband! Watching your my story video really touched me. I to never new my mom. I was given away 7 day’s after I was born to an orphanage in Seoul, Korea. I was adopted when I was six to an amazing christian family. My adoptive mom is my biggest hero, I love her so much. But as you said in your video also, you had this huge longing to know who your mother is. I grew up feeling the same, I always felt like a huge part of me was missing. Until I had my daughter, God has really shown me a mother’s love for her daughter and all the things I never got to know about my birth mother I can give that to my daughter, by being the best mom I can to her. God is so good!!! Hope to hear from you. Blessings Kat.
You are amazing! I love what you are up too and am so excited to learn more from you. I had no idea…. Love you!
Hi! Sometimes all us mommas need is a little practical inspiration! I’m a homeschooling momma to a sweet 7yo girl and two all-boy boys ages 5 & 1 in Kansas City. My sister sent me to your blog this week and I’m excited to use your plans to change my habits…especially the sleeping-until-little-people-are-jumping-on-me habit! Thank you so much for thinking life through enough to make it missional & clear for the rest of us! BTW—I got up at 6:37 this morning—on a Sunday, no less! You rock!
I’m Carrie, and I’m from Alabama. Roll Tide.
I have two sweet children, ages 2 and 3. My husband and I are pretty certain that our family isn’t complete yet, so maybe one or two more kiddos someday. I came across your blog by chance, but not really. I have no doubt God put Inspired to Action in my path for a reason….it just fits too perfectly with the work He is doing in me these days. Thanks for what you do here. I’m inspired 
Amazing! I have two boys (3 1/2, 1 1/2 yrs) and similar to the previous poster am confident that my stumbling upon your blog wasn’t by mistake! Thank you for the motivation and encouragement…so very excited for all that’s in store!
This is an incredible website. Thank you for doing this!
My name is Laura and I’m from Ontario.
I’m a stay at home Mom and small-business owner. I am married to a wonderful youth pastor and we have one little boy.
Hi Kat,
I am Qin Tang, originally from China, but now live in Minnesota. I am a working mom with two kids. I work in the library.
I love your blog. I came to your site through the link to your article “How to be a More Patient Mom in Just 24 Hours” posted on Simple Mom.
Thanks.
Hi, Kat!
I’m Charlotte. A stay-at-home mom of a 5 year old girl and a 3 year old boy. Not a homeschool mom (although I’ve tried, but it’s not for me…yet!). Loving the resources you’ve provided. And excited to take on the mornings with you and the hellomornings ladies! LOVE your e-book! And linked it up in my facebook for all the mommies I know!
Thanks again! ~charlotte
Lauralee
From Northern BC Cananda
I homeschool 4 out 5 kids. My Hubby and I have been married 15 1/2 yrs.
I’ve always been a disorganized houswife. It’s time for change!
I will be trying your Maximize your Morning Challenge.
Oh ya and I love Jesus too!
Hi Kat!
Just wanted to send you a note to tell you how touching your video explaining how your Mom passed away is. I couldn’t help but cry a little knowing how much you longed for a Mom. I am not a mother yet, but am hoping to be within a few years and you made me realize that being a Mom isn’t “small” compared to the “bigness” of the world. I have been married for 5 years and my husband and I have struggled with whether we wanted careers or children first. I still want a career but when the time comes to have a child I want to be there at home with them, and you definitley helped me understand that being a Mom is bigger in God’s eyes than so many things I could do being an actress, which is a career that the world praises. I can’t wait for that little baby to reach up to me and say Momma. Thanks for sharing your story and being bold enough to share your heart.
My name is jamie and I am new to this..I dont usually join anything. telling myself that I dont have room for new things/friends. the thing is I have found myself in a negative spot and felt that maybe being apart of something other than my family would be a good thing and so far it has been. I am a stay at home mommy of 2 girls I am married to a cop so we dont go to church because of his schedule and my un-willingness to “join”. I am excited to see what inspired to action and God have in store for me here. being a good mommy is very important to me and it is nice to have a schedule to help me get there. Thanks again Kat for your work here.
My name is Kari. I am in Texas!! I am a wife to my wonderful husband and I have the privilege of being called “Momma” from my son. I also tutor in our tutoring business from our home. Lots of fun and lots of falling on my face. I pray that everyday I learn to love bigger, better and more self-lessly.
Such a beautiful mission you have – to encourage moms.
I’m a little different than most of your readers – my kids are grown. I started with two kids, homeschooled them and then watched them grow into adults. I have 3 kids now – a daughter, a son, and a daughter-in-law.
You know, as a (?graduated?) mom I still need to be encouraged. Maybe not in ways I could have been as a mom with toddlers, or teens… but being a mom and adding value to your childrens’ lives doesn’t stop when they’re grown. It just changes. (and yes – it has to be VERY carefully and prayerfuly done, because they’re adults now… )
Thanks for all you’re doing for moms. What a blessing!
(I love the statement your husband made (this is from your video) when you shared your discouragement after a frustrating day. He said, “It’s not about the mom you were today – it’s about the mom you’re fighting to be.” Sounds like a kind and wise spouse.)
hi kat!
my name is cris i live in southern california and i stumbled upon your website by accident. I am from the Philippines:) I’m half pinay half Portuguese and I’ve lived in the US for about ten years.
I have two daughters and their names are Lelainah who is 3 and Willow who is 4 months old. I googled: how can i be more patient with my toddler. I’m really having a difficult time balancing my attention between my two daughters , having no help I am a stay at home mom.
If you’re familiar with the life in the Philippines, it is common for children to have nannies tend to them almost 24 hrs a day. That’s how me and my sisters were raised since our parents were both working so much. My parents were very well off and they didn’t spend a lot of one on one time with us. The age difference was great 35 yrs on my mom and 50 yrs on my dad. So you could see that they didn’t have patience to be there for us. Hence we had nannies, tutors, drivers, you name it we got it. They replaced the affection with material things.
And so, me having no prior experience of taking care of a child was suddenly faced with this reality. Away from home, desperate, frustrated and doubting myself from time to time. Your story resonated with me and I want to be the best mom I could be, if I could just have a break and be energized but it is so hard. i don’t want the kids to grow up with a cranky mom. I love them to death and I don’t know how to be in a good place.
Thanks for taking the time to read my thoughts and God Bless you and your family
Cris,
It’s SO nice to meet you!
While I actually don’t know much at all about the Philippines, my father was of Swedish/Dutch decent, and I grew up without any Filipino influence, I do understand how you feel about not having any prior experience.
I grew up living with my dad during the week and my grandparents during the weekends. No one was really with me 24/7 like I am now with my children. The best advice I have is to pray a lot and read a lot. I have found parenting books like Love and Logic and Mission of Motherhood so inspiring and helpful.
God chose you for your children and He will give you what you need to raise them well. Spend time with Him and listen to Him. You are not alone.
I’m praying tomorrow will be an amazing day for you, Cris, with your children!
Hi Kat,
I loved reading your posts.
I’m Neetha, a mom to 3 year old son. I just recovered from a meltdown and found your posts to be highly motivating and inspiring…
Thanks for sharing.
Hi Kat,
I recently got an email from Compassion about the trip you all are on! I just read through your blogs and cried! I sponsor a little boy in the Philippines. It means a lot to me because my parents are Filipino-born and raised in poverty. Yet God has blessed our family in America. I don’t know what it’s like to be poor and I don’t believe Jesus wants me to be, but rather gave us financial stability so I could be able to give back to others.
I love your story and your faith. I’m so glad you got to see your sponsor child and family. That can only happen through Christ. And I loved the song you shared. It reminded me of another song that I’ve recently been moved by called “Blessings,” by Laura Story. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4mmgV6mPvb0) The song made me think about the feelings you had going into your journey…even in those crazy emotions…God gives blessings. Thank you so much for sharing your story. God bless you and your beautiful family.
Hi Kat! Thanks for sharing your journey as a mom, been inspired by your posts and your sharing. I’m Cheryl from Singapore and I have 2 kids – a 3-year-old boy and a 7-month-old baby girl and my life has never been so rich. I’ve been juggling my ministry calling and my mommy calling recently and although the journey hasn’t been easy, God’s been teaching me so much.
Keep doing what you do… I love how you’re inspiring other moms. Here’s to shaping the next generation of movers and shakers in the world!
Kat,
I found you through Emily’s Compassion blogging. I am so glad I did! I am a stay-at-home mother of 5 young children, and I have really been struggling with finding the joy in my vocation. Your story and your blog are such an encouragement! I want you to know you have given me hope (and practical tools!) that, yes, I can go forward with joy and face even the difficult days because He loves me!
That’s so wonderful to hear, Beth!!! I pray this would continue to be a place of encouragement and inspiration for you!
Hi! I’m Kristin! I decided to stay home this year and be a “stay at home” mom with my two kiddos and one on the way! I was a first grade teacher before that. I came across your e-book about a month ago and my mornings haven’t been the same since. I am turing into a “morning person” and consider that time before the kiddos wake up such a gift! Thank you for your inspiration and your action plan. I have been sharing your ebook with my small group friends and MOPS table!!
Hi! My name is Kristen & we live in the SW Virginia Mountains! I love Jesus, am a wife to a self-employed plumber, mom to 2 kids (ages 6, 4) here & 1 little one in heaven. I am a full-time teacher for students with visual impairment in a public school. I’m excited to read your e-book & blog & found your site via Tsh @ Simple Mom. I am truly a morning person (but not the hubs!)- I’ve only read a little, but your words have already been a blessing to me!
Hello Kat! Thank you for your work with this blog. Your words are an encouragement. My name is Chelo.
I was born and grew up in the Philippines.
Transplanted to Saipan as a High School grad.
Then Virginia, USA to complete Education degree to be a missionary teacher.
but now living in Jacksonville, FL with my loving husband and a new daughter. My mission field is my home and neighborhood
And hopefully my cyberspace (blog) as well.
Hi Kat!
My name is Maya. I LOVE your blog, and your testimony is EXACTLY what I needed to hear this morning! It literally brought tears to my eyes. I was born in the Philippines, but grew up here in NYC. I was working a full time job in downtown nyc before I had my daughter. However, when my husband and found out we were expecting, we both knew I was called to stay home and raise her. It has been an big adjustment for so far, and more challenging than I thought. Your blog has encouraged and blessed me so much already, and Im really looking foward to th MYM challenge this Fall.
Hi Kat!
I listened to your story and I have to say…
I AM just a mom! Let me explain why I say this…
I am a mother of 7. Yes 7! They are aged: 24, 22, 21 (Mine) 18 (His) then 9,3 and 2 (ours).
In the past I had a job that earned a paycheck to care for me and my first 3 children. Working outside the home takes something I don’t have. Like endless energy and the ability to find time for everything and everyone. (I know, it sounds like being an at home mom, but there is more needed when you work outside the home!) It was not an easy task. I longed to be “just” a mom with no extra duties or worries.
You see, God allowed me to have my children. He allowed them all to live. All six were born pre-term, and by His grace, they are all healthy. I know this is where God wants me, personally, because He has given me so many reasons to stay home.
When I first was able to stay at home I hated it when people would look down their noses as they say “just a mom” to me. Knowing that I could not do it all often hurt my pride. I sometimes thought I was supposed to be the working-homeschooling-just a mom! Or Wonder woman as some call it. I know now that I will never be.
When I am told that now, I look back at them with a big smile and tell them that being a “just” a mom is enough for me!
I agree that it isn’t about being just a mom, or a working mom, or a home-schooling mom or any combination of them. I think it is about being the mom God wants us to be at each point in our lives.
What an amazing blessing that you and your husband both get to be home!
I’m excited to meet you at Relevant!
Hello Kat, I’m a mom of a 6 yr old girl, 5 yr old girl, 3 yr old girl, 17 month old boy and expecting baby #5 in Jan.
Had a quick question for you, you made a comment in a post regarding how to expect your children to obey and I’ve only heard that phrased used through our churches… just wondering if you’d be willing to share what church you go to? It would be fun to know if were connected…
Hey Kat! Excited to meet you irl at Relevant. Great video. And yes, I need makeup tips as well. Any we can get!!
See you soon!
Kristi,
Can you believe it’s only a week and a half away?! I’m so excited! Looking forward to seeing you there!
Hi, I just signed up for the Winter Challenge. A friend posted about it on FB, and I was intrigued. I am a SAHM of 3, ages 8 (girl), 6 (boy), and almost 4 (girl). We recently moved to central OH from our home of 9 yrs in AL. I struggle daily with patience and staying postitive. I have tried getting up early to be with God in the past, and didn’t stick with it, though I know it helped. I am hoping I can become a better mommy with motivation and help from you guys and God. Thanks!
Hi, Kat. I’m from Camp Hill, PA and have 2 children – 6 year old girl, Anna, and a just-turned-one little boy, Teddy. Since having children, I decided to put my full-time work in politics on hold to stay at home with them, although, as a family, we frequently tag along with my husband – who is still in the business.
I comment, mainly to say ITA is an incredible blessing to me. Thank you for the hard work you do, what an encouragement.
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