Why Loving Correction Matters in Parenting
It’s Parent Observation Day in a kindergarten classroom.
Students buzz with excitement as they wait to show off a game called “Pass‑Catch: Answer” to their expectant parents. Moms and dads settle into their seats while the children huddle together, eyes locked on their teacher.
The game begins.
A beanbag flies from the proud teacher to her well‑taught pupils. Parents hold a collective breath.
Whoosh! Children jump to catch the bag of beans. Only one child will catch it at a time—though everyone will get a turn.
Plop! All eyes turn to the smiling winner.
When Emotions Take Over
One over‑excited student misses the opening toss by an inch. The realization sinks in: It’s not her turn yet.
And suddenly, the disappointed child becomes the center of attention.
Stomp! Stomp!
Huff!
With clenched fists and swinging arms, she storms toward the door, flings it open, and loudly declares, “I’M LEAVING.”
The observing parents wonder what the teacher will do. The teacher wonders what Miss Priss’s mom will do.
But no one does anything of significance.
When No One Steps In
Miss Priss is gently coaxed back into the room. She marches straight to the chalkboard and angrily erases the teacher’s hard work to show her disapproval.
The teacher resumes the game, hoping to calm the storm and restore peace. Mom shrugs sheepishly from her seat.
I understand the weary mom suddenly put on the spot in front of other parents.
I empathize with the tired teacher who doesn’t want to offend anyone.
But Miss Priss needs something far more important than comfort.
She needs someone to love her enough to say:
NO. This behavior is not acceptable.
Discipline Is Love in Action
Instructions must be followed by consequences. Discipline isn’t about punishment—it’s about adjustment. It’s about guiding a child’s heart and behavior before patterns become permanent.
As I watched this unfold, Miss Priss’s future flashed before my eyes.
I saw her as a teenager:
“MOOOOOM, he is NOT a thug! He’s wonderful and I LOVE him! You can’t stop me!”
And out she marches—same huff, same defiance, bigger stakes.
Why Early Discipline Matters So Much
Now is the time to train a child to listen to wise counsel.
It is almost now or never.
Six‑year‑old Miss Priss is rapidly becoming who she will be. The teenage years are closer than we think, and they arrive with little mercy.
If a child doesn’t learn to listen now, she won’t suddenly start later.
Only next time, it won’t be a chalkboard that’s destroyed—it could be her life.
Teaching the Habit of Obedience
We’ve talked about the habit of obedience:
- Practicing it
- Teaching it
- Instilling it into the very fiber of a child’s character
We’ve discussed consistency, follow‑through, and accountability—three very draining responsibilities, especially for the social‑media‑scrolling, blog‑loving mama.
I’ll admit it: it’s far easier to read about parenting than it is to actually step in and do the hard work.
Why Parents Must “Get In There”
But get in there we must.
Obedience does not come naturally. That’s exactly why we must proactively require it from our children—with love, firmness, and clarity.
And here’s the truth bomb:
Children crave boundaries even when they resist them.
I have something important to share with you about obedience and discipline—something that may challenge the way you think about both.
I’ll drop that in the next post, so stay tuned.
How to Flip Comparison: From Paralyzed to Sharpened
Comparison paralyzes.
Have you ever felt its tight, strangling grip? Most of us have—even though we know comparison is unhealthy for our joy, confidence, and growth. It sneaks in quietly and whispers thoughts that chip away at our peace:
- Her kids are sharp, obedient, and tidy. Mine are a mess in every way.
- If only my husband cared about me the way hers does.
- Her waist stays so trim. I’m bloated twelve months a year.
- Man, she’s got great hair.
- She has it all together, and my life feels like a sloppy mess.
Yuck.
Why Comparison Is So Dangerous
Comparison doesn’t just discourage us—it immobilizes us. When we constantly measure our behind-the-scenes reality against someone else’s polished image, motivation fades and gratitude disappears.
Left unchecked, comparison can spiral into shame, resentment, and even depression.
A Healthier Way to Look at Other People’s Lives
I have a few friends that, if I allowed myself to compare, could easily pull me into discouragement. But over time, I’ve learned something powerful:
I can let their lives sharpen me instead of depress me.
That simple mindset shift changes everything.
Let Comparison Sharpen, Not Suffocate
So her kids are disciplined? Of course they are—she invests time in training them instead of always serving herself. That doesn’t have to shame me; it can challenge me to stay focused and intentional as a mom.
So her husband is attentive and engaged? Of course he is—after decades together, she still flirts with him and prioritizes their relationship. That challenges me to keep the fire burning in my own marriage.
So her waist is trim? Of course it is—she studies nutrition and makes intentional choices for her family. That challenges me to ask questions, learn, and grow.
So she has great hair?
Well… that’s just not fair. We’re on our own with that one. 😉
What the Bible Says About Comparison
Scripture offers a better framework for growth:
“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” — Proverbs 27:17
We aren’t meant to compete with one another—we’re meant to sharpen one another. Growth happens in community, honesty, and humility.
Stop Comparing Your Bad Days to Someone Else’s Highlight Reel
Here’s a truth we all need to remember: everyone has struggles.
We all deal with:
- Fussy children
- Marital challenges
- Bloated seasons
- Bad hair days
Social media rarely shows the full picture. Comparing your hardest moments to someone else’s highlight reel is a guaranteed way to feel defeated.
Choose Growth Over Stagnation
As uncomfortable as it can be, real growth requires honesty. I’ve learned to admit when stagnation has taken root in my own life—and when it’s time for growth to replace it.
That’s why I’m intentional about the voices I allow into my space.
I seek friends who encourage, challenge, and sharpen me—not those who stir comparison or insecurity.
Grow Better, Not Bitter
It is good to be challenged. It’s healthy to be stretched. We were designed to grow stronger, wiser, and more refined over time.
Once we stop growing, we begin dying—so let’s commit to growing until the day He calls us home.
Embrace the challenge. Keep comparison in its proper place. And choose, every day, to grow better, not bitter.
Energize Your Mornings with Simple Habits That Support Balance
How you start your morning truly sets the tone for the entire day. Before the emails, errands, and responsibilities begin, those first few moments can either leave you feeling rushed—or grounded and energized.
The good news? You don’t need an elaborate routine to feel better. A few small, intentional morning habits can help you feel more energized, focused, and balanced throughout the day.
Why a Consistent Morning Routine Matters
Creating a consistent morning routine supports your body’s natural rhythms. When you wake up with intention, you’re more likely to experience steady energy, improved focus, and a more balanced mood as the day unfolds.
Rather than relying on quick fixes, simple daily habits help your body wake up naturally and set a calm, confident pace for the hours ahead.
Start Your Morning with Hydration
One of the easiest ways to support morning energy is hydration. After hours of sleep, your body is ready for replenishment.
Morning Hydration Support
NingXia Red®
Drinking 1–2 ounces in the morning is a simple way to nourish your body right away. It’s packed with nutrient-rich ingredients and antioxidants that support overall wellness and natural energy—without the crash.
Drinking 1–2 ounces in the morning is a simple way to nourish your body right away. It’s packed with nutrient-rich ingredients and antioxidants that support overall wellness and natural energy—without the crash.
Many people love adding this step to their routine before coffee or breakfast as a gentle way to wake up from the inside out.
Support Natural Energy with Essential Oils
Essential oils can be a powerful addition to your morning ritual, especially when your goal is balance rather than burnout.
Morning Oil Ritual
EndoFlex™ Essential Oil Blend
This blend is often used to support natural energy balance. Apply it over the lower back or inhale it in the morning to help your body ease into the day feeling supported and steady.
This blend is often used to support natural energy balance. Apply it over the lower back or inhale it in the morning to help your body ease into the day feeling supported and steady.
It’s a simple habit that pairs beautifully with quiet time, stretching, journaling, or even getting ready for the day.
Fuel Your Body, Set Your Intentions
When you fuel your body with nutrient-rich support and begin your day with mindful intention, you create sustainable energy—not just for the morning, but for the whole day.
Why We Love These Morning Staples
- NingXia Red® supports whole-body wellness and daily vitality
- EndoFlex™ is a go-to for balance and steady energy throughout the day
Small habits done consistently can lead to big shifts over time.
Create a Morning That Works for You
There’s no one-size-fits-all morning routine. The key is choosing habits that feel supportive, realistic, and life-giving for you.
✨ What’s your favorite way to start your day on the right foot?
Wishing you a strong, balanced, and energized start to every morning.
A Better Way to Start the New Year
Well, here we are again—standing at the beginning of another year with a hopeful list of ways to improve ourselves over the next twelve months. No matter what year you’re reading this, the same familiar mantra rings true.
A slimmer waist. A healthier bank account. A cleaner house. Better relationships.
That list often ends up taped to the mirror, quietly watching us morning and night as we promise ourselves that this will be the year everything finally changes.
When Good Intentions Turn Into Quiet Guilt
If history has taught us anything, it’s this: the friendly, optimistic list doesn’t stay friendly for long.
Within weeks, it often transforms into a mocking reminder of unmet expectations—another year, another set of goals left unfinished. The cycle repeats, and discouragement settles in.
It’s almost part of the tradition.
We set our goals impossibly high… and our hope quietly slips lower with each passing week.
Depressing, isn’t it?
Why Do New Year’s Resolutions Fail?
Have you ever stopped to really ask why?
Why do we feel such a strong need to change? Why do we struggle to follow through? Why do we trip over the same goals year after year, bruising our pride every single time?
I’ve asked those questions—and I believe the answer is simpler than we want it to be.
The Deeper Longing Behind Every Resolution
Inside each of us lives a desire for more. More peace. More joy. More fulfillment.
We convince ourselves that if we just lose the weight, earn more money, keep a cleaner home, or fix our relationships, that aching emptiness inside will finally be satisfied.
But it doesn’t work that way.
True peace is not found at the finish line of completed goals.
Peace Is Found in a Person, Not a Goal
Lasting change—real, sustainable change—doesn’t come from checking boxes on a resolution list. It comes from transformation on the inside.
That transformation is found in a Person, not a plan.
He came thousands of years ago and still lives today, patiently waiting for us to ask for His help. He knows our nature. He understands our pain. And He alone can change us from the inside out.
Why Achievements Alone Don’t Bring Contentment
Talk to someone who has accomplished every single New Year’s resolution they ever set. Ask them honestly whether those achievements brought lasting peace.
If they tell the truth, you’ll hear the same answer echoed again and again:
The emptiness was still there.
Because peace doesn’t come from achievement—it comes from alignment.
A Different Approach to the New Year
Before you make your list of resolutions this year, pause.
Sit down.
Have a conversation with your Creator.
Ask Him for help. Ask Him to change you from the inside out. Ask Him to break the chains that have kept you stuck in the same cycles year after year.
And be prepared—because with that surrender often comes a freedom you’ve never experienced before.
So… What Will Your List Look Like This Year?
Maybe this year isn’t about longer lists or stricter rules.
Maybe it’s about trust.
Maybe it’s about letting go of resolutions and choosing relationship instead.
I’d truly love to know—what will your list look like this year?
How to Beat Dry, Scaly Skin All Season
I’m actually an alligator.
Okay… not really—but that’s exactly how my skin feels in the winter if I skip my hydration routine. If you just nodded along because dry, tight, flaky skin is your seasonal struggle too, you’re in the right place.
Winter skin care requires a little extra intention. Cold air outside, dry heat inside, and less humidity overall can seriously disrupt your skin’s moisture barrier. The good news? With a few simple habits and the right nourishing products, you can keep your skin soft, glowing, and comfortable all season long.
Why Winter Hydration Is So Important
Hydration isn’t just a summer thing—it’s essential year-round. In winter, your skin loses moisture faster, which can lead to dryness, irritation, and that alligator-skin feeling we all want to avoid.
True hydration starts from the inside out and is supported by what you put on your skin.
Hydrate From the Inside Out
Before we even talk skincare, let’s start with the basics:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Add healthy fats to your diet (think avocado, olive oil, nuts, seeds)
These simple habits help support your skin’s natural moisture balance and elasticity.
Protect Your Skin’s Moisture Barrier
Once your body is hydrated internally, pairing that with nourishing skincare is key. Winter is all about locking moisture in and protecting your skin from the elements.
Here are my tried-and-true winter skin hydration favorites.
Rose Ointment for Deep Winter Hydration
I love this stuff.
Rose Ointment is my go-to for dry hands, elbows, heels, and any area that needs extra love. It’s rich, nourishing, and creates a beautiful protective barrier over the skin.
Why We Love Rose Ointment
- Packed with hydrating ingredients like rose essential oil and vitamin E
- Helps soften, soothe, and protect dry skin
- Seals in moisture and shields skin from harsh winter air
Apply as needed, especially before bed or heading outdoors.
Myrrh Essential Oil: An Ancient Winter Skincare Secret
Myrrh essential oil has been used for centuries to support healthy, glowing skin—and for good reason. It’s especially helpful during winter months when skin needs extra protection.
How to Use Myrrh Essential Oil
- Mix one drop with your moisturizer for added hydration and barrier support
- Ideal for dry, stressed, or mature skin
⚠️ Important tip: Myrrh is a very thick essential oil. Once you remove the cap, saturate the inside of the cap with olive oil or coconut oil before putting it back on—or you may not get it off again! Trust me on this one.
Beauty Glow: My Not-So-Secret Beauty Secret
This one’s a favorite—and maybe a little magic.
Beauty Glow is something I use consistently, and I truly believe it plays a big role when people compliment my skin. I apply it to my face and neck before bed, and it leaves my skin feeling incredibly soft and hydrated by morning.
Why Beauty Glow Works So Well
- Lightweight and silky (no heavy cream feeling)
- Deeply moisturizing without clogging pores
- Feels like liquid silk on the skin
It’s gentle, luxurious, and perfect for nightly winter skin care.
Simple Winter Skincare Routine for Dry Skin
To recap, here’s how I keep my skin happy during the colder months:
- Hydrate well and eat healthy fats daily
- Use Rose Ointment on extra-dry areas
- Add Myrrh essential oil to moisturizer for barrier support
- Apply Beauty Glow to face and neck before bed
Consistency makes all the difference.
Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Feel Like an Alligator
Winter can be tough on skin—but dry, uncomfortable skin doesn’t have to be part of the season. A few intentional hydration habits and nourishing products can help restore balance, softness, and glow.
✨ How do you keep your skin hydrated in the winter?
Wishing you a hydrated, healthy, and glowing season,
Terri
Why Sugar Sabotages Your Immune System (and What to Do Instead)
’Tis the season for that aching, scratchy, sandpaper-feeling throat. You know the one—it sneaks up right after an office party, holiday gathering, or birthday celebration.
And the first thought is usually:
“Someone must have brought a bug.”
“Someone must have brought a bug.”
But here’s the surprising truth: it’s often not the germs—it’s the sugar.
Why Does a Sore Throat Show Up After Parties?
Holiday treats, desserts, sweetened coffees, and sodas may feel harmless, but they can temporarily weaken your immune defenses.
What Studies Show About Sugar and Immunity
Consuming about 100 grams of sugar—roughly:
- 1 can of soda + a cookie
- OR a large sweetened coffee + dessert
…can reduce white blood cell (neutrophil) activity by up to 40%.
Even more concerning?
That immune suppression can last 2–5 hours after consumption.
That immune suppression can last 2–5 hours after consumption.
That’s a big window of opportunity for irritation, inflammation, and discomfort to take hold.
My Personal Wake-Up Call With Sugar
When I was a young mom, I noticed something strange: I’d run a fever after every one of my kids’ birthday parties. ☠️
The cake was the only time I indulged heavily in sugar—and my body simply wasn’t strong enough to handle that immune dip. While my defenses were lowered, my environment stayed the same… and my body paid the price.
For me, eating birthday cake was a recipe for physical disaster. I wasn’t healthy enough to lower my immune system—period.
Today’s Simple Immune-Smart Tips ✔️
You don’t have to skip every celebration—just be wiser about how you support your body.
✔️ Eat Protein Before Dessert
Protein helps slow sugar absorption and gives your immune system more stability before the sweet hit.
✔️ Support Your Throat Early
If you’re in “sandpaper throat season,” don’t wait until it’s miserable.
- Thieves® Lozenges – Use daily during sick season for immune-supportive comfort.
- Thieves® Cough Drops – Reach for these when your throat already hurts. They contain menthol for that cooling, numbing relief.
✔️ Dress Up Your Coffee
Drop a Thieves Lozenge right into your coffee or tea.
It’s surprisingly delicious—and you still get the soothing benefits.
It’s surprisingly delicious—and you still get the soothing benefits.
How to Use Thieves® Lozenges & Cough Drops
- Thieves Lozenges:
Suck on throughout the day during seasonal challenges for immune-supportive comfort. - Thieves Cough Drops:
Use liberally when your throat feels raw or irritated.
Menthol cools on contact while the Thieves essential oil blend provides comforting support.
Why We Love Thieves® Cough Drops & Lozenges
Fast Throat Soothing
Menthol cools irritation on contact, bringing quick relief to scratchy, raw throats.
Supports the Body—Not Against It
Cinnamon, clove, eucalyptus radiata, peppermint, lemon, and rosemary oils offer comforting, cleansing support—without harsh chemicals.
Gently Coats the Throat
Pectin forms a soothing barrier, giving irritated tissues time to rest and recover.
Helps You Breathe Easier 🙌🏼
Peppermint and eucalyptus support open airways, especially helpful during congestion or nighttime discomfort.
No “Medicine” Taste or Sugar Crash
Clean, pleasant flavor—no artificial burn or sticky aftertaste.
Family-Friendly Wellness
Gentle enough for kids, effective enough for adults.
Simple, Everyday Support
No measuring. No mess. Just wise, easy comfort when your throat needs help. ✨
Final Thought: Support Before You Suppress
Sugar lowers your immune defenses—but simple habits can help offset the impact. Eat protein first. Be proactive with throat support. And give your body what it needs before irritation sets in.
What’s your go-to immune-boosting habit?
Stay well and thrive this winter,
Terri ❄️✨
Terri ❄️✨
Christmas is more than a moment—it’s a message. In Luke 2:11, the angel tells us who Jesus is in three simple titles: Savior, Christ, and Lord. Those words invite us not just to celebrate His birth, but to consider what they mean for our lives.
Luke 2:11 says: “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
We are given three titles that summarize who Jesus is.
First, Jesus is our Savior. That word means rescuer. We don’t just need advice or inspiration—we need saving. According to the Bible, we are not the hero—we are the damsel in distress! We need someone to save us. The Bible says our sin separates us from God, but Jesus came to rescue us by living a perfect life and giving His life on the cross in our place. He saves us from guilt, shame, and judgment.
Second, He is the Christ. Christ means the Anointed One, the promised King God had been sending prophets to talk about for centuries. Jesus isn’t an accident of history—He’s the fulfillment of God’s plan to restore what sin broke. He is the promised Messiah.
Third, He is the Lord. That means Jesus isn’t just someone to admire—He’s someone to trust and follow. Lord means authority, ownership, and allegiance.
Most people like the idea that Jesus is Savior and Christ, but few accept Him as Lord.
Jesus cannot be divided up into pieces. The Bible is clear that He comes as all three or not at all.
So the good news of Christmas is this: the Savior has come, the promised King has arrived, and the true Lord calls you today to repent, believe, and receive the gift of eternal life.
Will you answer His call?
By Justin Tubbs
Dark Days = Dark Mood? You’re Not Alone, Friend
When the days get shorter, it can feel like we’re handed an official permission slip to change into pajamas at 5 PM—and honestly, I don’t hate it. I really don’t. Slower evenings can be a gift.
But let’s be real: the lack of sunlight can quietly tinker with our moods, energy, and motivation—especially for those of us who are more creatively wired. If that sounds familiar, you’re not broken, and you’re definitely not alone.
Over the years, I’ve learned to build in a few simple, intentional habits that help keep my family (and myself) from slipping into the winter blues.
Why Shorter Days Affect Our Mood
Sunlight is free, powerful, and one of the most natural mood boosters we have. It helps regulate:
- Sleep cycles
- Mood and emotional balance
- Vitamin D production
When daylight hours decrease, our bodies don’t automatically adjust—we have to step in and support them on purpose.
1. Get Outside During Peak Daylight Hours
Even in winter, sunlight matters. Make it a goal to step outside during the brightest part of the day, even if it’s just for a short walk or a few minutes on the porch.
Fresh air + natural light can make a noticeable difference in energy and mindset.
2. Boost Your Mood With Orange Essential Oil
Diffusing Orange essential oil is one of my favorite winter mood hacks. If you’ve never experienced how citrus oils can shift your mental state, consider this your invitation.
Here’s your challenge: grab some Orange essential oil, turn on your diffuser, and sit nearby while it’s going. You may be surprised how quickly your mood lifts.
I also love adding Orange oil to my household cleaner so I can smell it while I clean—instant sunshine vibes.
3. Support Your Body With Vitamin D
Vitamin D isn’t optional—it’s essential, especially during darker months. It plays a major role in regulating:
- Mood and serotonin levels
- Immune function
- Calcium absorption and bone health
- Muscle strength
- Inflammation response
Taking a high-quality Vitamin D supplement daily can help support your body when sunlight exposure is limited.
4. Nourish Your Body With NingXia Red
NingXia Red is one of my go-to winter staples. It’s a whole-body supplement that:
- Supports natural energy levels
- Helps balance blood sugar
- Delivers antioxidants and nutrients directly to your cells
Yes—it’s absolutely a mood booster.
During winter months, I increase my intake. The minimum is one ounce a day, but some days I drink more. Consistency is key to seeing results.
My Simple Winter Wellness Essentials
Here’s what I personally focus on during the darker months:
- Super Vitamin D – Taken daily to support immune health, hormone balance, and strong bones.
- Orange Essential Oil – Diffused or inhaled directly for an instant mood lift (it’s basically like sniffing sunshine).
- NingXia Red – Drunk daily for natural energy and full-body support.
A Gentle Reminder for the Winter Season
Winter doesn’t mean something is wrong with you—it simply means your body needs a little extra care. With a few intentional habits, you can support your mood, energy, and overall well-being, even when the days feel dark.
Give yourself grace, soak up every bit of light you can, and don’t be afraid to lean into simple supports that help you feel your best.
You’re doing better than you think.
