A Day Filled With Chaos (and Poopy Diapers)
The stench of multiple poopy diapers hung in the air. Yes, poopy, and the worst kind of poopy at that: OTHER kids’ poopy, not my own little darlings.
Last week, I was away from the house ALL DAY in a volunteer situation working with little children in a cramped nursery surrounded by stinky diapers. I had what my family calls “A DAY!” I love children, but I don’t necessarily love their poopy and the lingering smell just about unraveled me. At the end of the day, I rolled into the driveway dreaming about a hot bath and cuddles with my kids and hubby on the couch when…
The Unexpected Emotional Plot Twist
One of my oldest daughters greeted me with, “Oh good you’re home! I need to talk to you. Let’s go on a date NOW!”
The last thing I wanted to do was leave the house, get back in traffic, and deal with emotional drama. Seriously! Hormonal drama after a day of toddler poop? I don’t think so!
I came home totin’ a “tude.” I wanted a…
…bubble bath and my way…NOW! I needed my day to end. To halt. To be over.
Choosing Connection Over the Mood
However, being the very mature mother that I am, (insert rolling eyes), I stuffed my feelings and agreed to take said daughter on this spur-of-the-moment date in my harried condition. In the car, this daughter poured out the issues of her heart and what God was doing inside of her. It was as if she had been reading my prayer journal and was speaking the very prayers I had been praying for her back to me. We drove around town for 2 hours and I listened in awe at her desire to KNOW God and relinquish her rights to Him. My heart overflowed at His faithfulness to my daughter (and me.)
God’s Answers Don’t Always Arrive When It’s Convenient
But here’s a funny thing, I could have easily missed the opportunity to hear God’s direct answer to my specific prayers. Honestly, His answers whisper at the most inconvenient times.
Why does He do that?
Doesn’t He know I like a neat, reliable schedule where answers come when I’m rested and can focus?
Learning to Hear His Whisper in the Chaos
God has been teaching me to run to His calm in the middle of my storm, for there I can survive anything because it is there that I hear His voice. Learning to refresh myself within the context of the intense schedule He has called me to, rather than tote a ‘tude that will only cheat me from hearing His Voice, is the most important discipline I practice. This can only be achieved if I tuck His Word in my brain like shown in my last two posts.
God doesn’t follow our schedule and He’s outside of our time. If we really want to hear from Him, we must be prepared to recognize His answers when we least expect them. Ask God to help you press into Him for refreshment in the midst of the intense work He has called you to so that You can hear His whisper over your own ‘tude.
~Terri
Choosing the Hard Way in Marriage is Worth It
Do you have the kind of marriage that actually requires God?
(Truth: every marriage does.)
But we still try to be self-sufficient. We think if we just had more savings… if the kids were grown… if we had less stress… life would finally become easier and then we’d be happy.
The Journey Requires God
Marriage was never designed to be done without Him. We need His direction, His restraint, His wisdom, and His resources.
He guides us through conflict.
He sustains us in struggle.
He supplies what we cannot manufacture.
He sustains us in struggle.
He supplies what we cannot manufacture.
Easy Does Not Equal Happy
A life without challenges will not produce deep joy, connection, or resilience.
If you are considering running from your marriage because it is hard… pause.
Hard is not bad. Hard is often the place of breakthrough.
Hard is where God grows us — and grows our marriage.
Hard is where God grows us — and grows our marriage.
The Greater the Struggle — The Greater the Reward
Give generously in marriage.
Give generously in family.
Give generously in the work God has asked you to do.
Give generously in the areas that require stretching.
Give generously in family.
Give generously in the work God has asked you to do.
Give generously in the areas that require stretching.
Comfort isn’t the goal.
Eternity is.
Eternity is.
Pain Doesn’t Mean You’re Failing
Childbirth was terrifying for me with my first — but if I would have avoided future pain — I would have missed the ten children I treasure today.
The deep pain in my marriage seasons didn’t run us away from God’s plan. We didn’t flee. We walked through with Him — step by step.
Homeschooling Wasn’t the Easy Road Either
Two decades — and still choosing it today.
I see fruit now in my adult children.
And I keep choosing the work with my younger ones — even when it’s stretching.
I see fruit now in my adult children.
And I keep choosing the work with my younger ones — even when it’s stretching.
Where Are You Hurting?
Look beyond the immediate pain and ask God to give you eternal vision.
We get ONE life.
Easy should never be the aim.
Easy should never be the aim.
We usually hurt when comfort is challenged, when selfishness is exposed, or when time is demanded of us.
A meaningful life has struggle after struggle — and those who persevere with God will feel the deepest satisfaction.
Address the pain.
Lay down the selfishness.
Embrace the struggle.
Walk WITH your Creator through it.
Lay down the selfishness.
Embrace the struggle.
Walk WITH your Creator through it.
~ Terri
Prepare your arsenal for this season’s germs — because ain’t nobody got time for that!
Every Thursday evening, all my kiddos and grands pile in for Family Dinner Night. We share food, swap kisses, and — you guessed it — spread germs generously with each other! 😂
Getting sick occasionally is just part of being human, but avoiding it most of the time? That’s the goal.
And friend, after years of motherhood (and what feels like my own personal case study in family health), I’ve learned a few tricks that really work.
Why I Love My “Flu Bomb” Arsenal
Let’s talk about what’s in my mama medicine arsenal.
Certain essential oils are absolute powerhouses when it comes to supporting your body’s natural defenses and promoting a clean, healthy environment.
💥 Powerful cleansing properties:
Studies show that oils like oregano, tea tree (melaleuca), and clove (found in Thieves®!) have strong cleansing and purifying properties when used as directed.
And get this — one study found that diffusing Thieves essential oil reduced airborne bacteria significantly within minutes.
Pretty amazing for something that smells like Christmas cookies, right? 🎄
Build Your Mama Medicine Cabinet
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this:
Don’t wait to order your oils until someone’s already sick!
Don’t wait to order your oils until someone’s already sick!
Be the prepared mama. Have your immune-support stash ready before the first sneeze of the season.
Here’s what I always keep on hand:
🌿 Thieves – immune-support powerhouse and surface cleaner
🌿 Oregano – strong and purifying, perfect for seasonal wellness
🌿 Frankincense – supports immune and respiratory health
🌿 Melaleuca (Tea Tree) – great for cleansing and purifying
🌿 Life 9 Probiotic – 17 billion live cultures to help maintain gut and immune balance*
🌿 DiGize – for daily digestive wellness support* (because sometimes germs show up in the tummy, too)
🌿 Oregano – strong and purifying, perfect for seasonal wellness
🌿 Frankincense – supports immune and respiratory health
🌿 Melaleuca (Tea Tree) – great for cleansing and purifying
🌿 Life 9 Probiotic – 17 billion live cultures to help maintain gut and immune balance*
🌿 DiGize – for daily digestive wellness support* (because sometimes germs show up in the tummy, too)
👜 Terri’s Tip:
I keep three bags ready to go — one for home, one for the car, and one in my “quick grab” emergency kit.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Diffuse Like a Boss
Diffusing oils isn’t just about making your home smell cozy (though that’s a huge bonus). It’s one of the most effective ways to freshen the air, create a clean environment, and boost everyone’s mood naturally.
Try this Flu Bomb Diffuser Blend when the sniffles start making the rounds:
✨ 3 drops Thieves
✨ 2 drops Lemon
✨ 1 drop Oregano
✨ 1 drop Frankincense
✨ 2 drops Lemon
✨ 1 drop Oregano
✨ 1 drop Frankincense
Diffuse for 20–30 minutes in the main living area — especially after family gatherings or school days when everyone’s been exposed to “all the things.”
Be the Prepared Mama
Now, I may have been a mom during Y2K (so yes, I’m slightly conditioned to be a prepper 😆), but trust me on this one — being prepared feels so much better than scrambling when someone spikes a fever at midnight.
Here’s what you can do today:
✅ Order your oils now — don’t wait until you need them.
✅ Create a shared “Health Tips” album on your phone with your husband — keep your favorite flu bomb graphic and recipes there.
✅ Set up an emergency cabinet with your go-to immune-support and natural wellness products.
✅ Create a shared “Health Tips” album on your phone with your husband — keep your favorite flu bomb graphic and recipes there.
✅ Set up an emergency cabinet with your go-to immune-support and natural wellness products.
Your future self (and your family) will thank you.
Final Thoughts from the Mom Trenches
Mama, you are the heartbeat of your home — and you deserve to feel empowered, not helpless, when sickness tries to sneak in.
Build your natural wellness kit, keep those oils handy, and remember: you’ve got this. 💪🏻
Now go mix up that Flu Bomb Diffuser Blend and show those germs who’s boss.
Big hugs and strong immune systems,
Terri
A Moment That Changed Everything
Thirty-six years ago my dad stood at the altar with my then-soon-to-be-husband and me. I was one of three daughters my dad gave away in marriage that summer, and now, having grown children of my own, I don’t know how my dad made it through that ceremony without blowing snot everywhere on stage!
Yes, this is a happy, wonderful transition, yet it is an emotional one.
The gravity of how fast the growing up years pass is surreal!
Children are a gift, a blessing, and occupy a temporary residence in our home.
It’s like one day you’re holding an infant and the next you’re giving them away in marriage.
The “in a blink” saying is true!
A Father’s Song and a Lasting Legacy
Knowing that time is fleeting, my dad summed up in a song what mine and Troy’s union should look like on a daily basis. He summed up what he and my mom had done for me. Don’t get me wrong, my parents aren’t perfect, like Troy and I aren’t (It runs in the family!)
But one thing they did was…
…make up for any imperfections they might have.
They gave me Jesus.
And for that, I am literally eternally grateful!
The Song That Says It All
Here is the song my dad sang at our wedding altar…
You can give your children houses
And you can give them lands
And the riches of your efforts
And all your best-laid plans
And you can give them lands
And the riches of your efforts
And all your best-laid plans
But of all that they inherit
Of all that you could will
Please include the unseen treasure of the life
That God has filled
Of all that you could will
Please include the unseen treasure of the life
That God has filled
Because the greatest gift a father can give
Is a life lived for Jesus
And the greatest gift a mother can give
Is the knowledge of the Lord
Is a life lived for Jesus
And the greatest gift a mother can give
Is the knowledge of the Lord
Pass Him on to your children
He’s the gift that keeps on giving
The greatest gift is a life lived for Jesus
He’s the gift that keeps on giving
The greatest gift is a life lived for Jesus
And someday the house will crumble
And time will turn the land to dust
And when all accounts are empty
Where will you invest their trust?
And time will turn the land to dust
And when all accounts are empty
Where will you invest their trust?
But of the riches that you give them
It’s the wisdom of His ways
Then the wealth you leave your children
Will last through all their days.
It’s the wisdom of His ways
Then the wealth you leave your children
Will last through all their days.
Passing On the Greatest Inheritance
Our marriage has not been perfect because we’re human, but this one thing we have strived for together above all others is to give our children Jesus.
His friendship. His love. His salvation.
The knowledge of Him IS the greatest inheritance we can pass on generationally.
What are you passing on to your children?
~Terri
When You’re Running on Empty
Just shoot me and call me dead. Because then I’d have a good reason to lay here!!! Have you ever felt like that? What do you do? Coffee? Energy drinks? These are the options we are most familiar with however, these “friends” of ours actually drain our energy reserves and damage long-term health.
Let’s face it. We all like a pick-me-up, but let’s be smart about it and think long-term! Life is non-stop and we need our bodies to fire on all pistons.
Energy is not an option!
It’s a MUST!
But coffee and energy drinks rev us up then drop us with a thud! These sugar-laced caffeinated drinks actually tax our adrenal glands in order to give that boost … and trust me, your adrenal glands don’t like being taxed as much as you do!! Get the picture?
The Truth About Coffee and Energy Drinks
I hear you, though! “Don’t mess with my coffee/energy drinks!” But let’s seriously consider our long-term health. Coffee will boost the ability to move through the day, but a high price is paid later when the caffeine wears off.
Eventually, the caffeine will not even give the boost it once boasted and this is when you know your adrenals can’t pay the tax collector. They have nothing left to give.
A Healthier Solution for Real Energy
Let me offer a solution to that need for energy.
It’s called…
It’s safe, health-building, energy giving and does not tax the adrenal glands like coffee! This essential oil blend also boosts mental alertness and increases circulation. It’s a win-win and way better than the long-term deficit coffee will give your body.
Choose Lasting Energy Over Quick Fixes
Take care of your body and use En-R-Gee when you need that extra boost to get you through the day.
And we won’t have to shoot you and call you dead so you have a reason to lay there!! :P
~Terri
SAY NO TO TOXIC DRYER SHEETS AND EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR DRYER
Dryer sheets leave a film on your lint screen that blocks circulation and makes your dryer use more energy. They also have a toxic ingredient that sticks to your clothes then rubs into your skin when you wear those clothes or lay on those sheets. This ingredient destroys your natural hormone flow and causes skin issues, emotional issues and general health problems. Ditching toxic dryer sheets will save you money, and extend the life of your dryer.
Read more...
Let’s talk about your girl for a minute.
She’s growing fast, her hormones are finding their rhythm, and some days it feels like emotions are on a roller coaster you didn’t sign up for. (Been there. 💁♀️)
But here’s the thing — it’s not all “just puberty.”
Our girls are exposed to hormone-disrupting chemicals every single day — in their makeup, food, clothes, and even their water bottles.
Our girls are exposed to hormone-disrupting chemicals every single day — in their makeup, food, clothes, and even their water bottles.
Let’s break down a typical day, shall we?
A Day in the Life of Hidden Hormone Disruptors
🌞 Morning: She swipes on mascara and lotion made with parabens.
🏃♀️ Afternoon: She snacks from a plastic bag while wearing synthetic leggings.
📚 Evening: She eats dinner from BPA-lined cans and fights through homework tears.
🏃♀️ Afternoon: She snacks from a plastic bag while wearing synthetic leggings.
📚 Evening: She eats dinner from BPA-lined cans and fights through homework tears.
You’re not imagining things — her body is overwhelmed.
But here’s the good news: you can make simple swaps that truly make a difference.
5 Easy Swaps to Support Her Hormones Naturally
You don’t need to throw everything out overnight. Just start small. Each of these swaps lightens her toxic load and helps her body find balance again.
Healthy Swap ✅ | Hormone Disruptor ❌ |
Glass water bottle | Plastic water bottle |
Natural deodorant | Conventional deodorant |
Beeswax food wraps | Plastic wrap |
Fresh produce | Canned goods |
Unscented lotion | Scented body products |
Little by little, these shifts create a cleaner environment for her growing body — and for the whole family, too.
Natural Hormone Support: Essential Oils for Puberty & Mood
When hormones surge and moods swing, a few drops of the right essential oils can make a world of difference. These Young Living favorites are gentle, effective, and 100% plant-based:
🌿 Dragon Time – Supports mood swings, cramps, and monthly cycles
🌿 Progessence Plus – Soothes acne, migraines, and PMS (My 13-year-old’s favorite!)
🌿 EndoFlex – Balances the endocrine system and supports energy (She LOVES this one too!)
🌿 Lavender – Calms emotions and promotes restful sleep
🌿 Progessence Plus – Soothes acne, migraines, and PMS (My 13-year-old’s favorite!)
🌿 EndoFlex – Balances the endocrine system and supports energy (She LOVES this one too!)
🌿 Lavender – Calms emotions and promotes restful sleep
🧴 Apply on her lower belly or back, or diffuse during those “rough days.”
Skip the Synthetic Perfumes — Try This Instead
Let’s be real — tween girls love to smell good. 💜
But most body sprays and perfumes are loaded with hormone-disrupting chemicals.
But most body sprays and perfumes are loaded with hormone-disrupting chemicals.
That’s why I’m obsessed with Wyld Notes — a plant-based, emotionally balancing scent line made just for tweens and teens.
No synthetic junk. No hidden toxins. Just pure, beautiful blends that help her feel confident and calm.
The Heart Behind It All
Mama, this isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress — one healthy swap, one empowering choice at a time.
When we help our daughters support their hormones naturally, we’re teaching them to listen to their bodies, honor their emotions, and care for themselves from the inside out.
You’re doing great. Truly. 💛
Big hugs,
Terri
Terri
Okay, don’t roll your eyes at me just yet.
I know “liver support” doesn’t exactly scream fun lunch convo, but hear me out—this quiet little organ is doing the absolute most for you behind the scenes, and it deserves some serious love.
So picture us sitting across from each other—maybe sipping something warm, maybe pushing strollers past the park—and I lean in and say:
“Hey, can we talk about your liver for a second?”
The Overachiever That Never Asks for Credit
Right under your right rib cage is this amazing multitasking boss called the liver. It’s not dramatic. It doesn’t throw a fit or cry out for attention (like some parts of our body, ahem). Instead, it quietly juggles hundreds of jobs all day, every day:
- Filters your blood
- Stores energy
- Helps you digest food
- Regulates hormones (hi, mood swings)
- Clears out toxins you don’t even know you’ve been around
And when it’s overwhelmed? It doesn’t throw a tantrum. It whispers.
The Subtle Signs Your Liver Needs a Little Love
You know that stubborn acne that just won’t clear? Or the weird 2 a.m. wakeups? Or that feeling like you’re dragging yourself through the day even though you slept?
Yep. That could be your liver saying,
“Girl, I’m doing my best here… a little help would be nice.”
Sometimes it shows up as:
- Brain fog or sluggish focus
- PMS that feels like a freight train
- Weight that won’t budge even when you’re eating right
- Low energy or cranky moods for no reason
Your liver is sneaky—it’s not dramatic, but when it’s tired, your whole body feels it.
How to Naturally Support Your Liver Every Day
Now, I’m not about to tell you to do some crazy juice cleanse or expensive detox. You know me better than that. 😉
We’re going for gentle, consistent, and doable—because real results come from simple habits you can actually stick with.
Try adding these into your daily rhythm:
- Start your day with water and Lemon Vitality oil to flush and wake up your system.
- Eat bitter greens like arugula, dandelion, or kale to help bile flow and digestion.
- Swap harsh household chemicals for cleaner, plant-based options to reduce toxic load.
- Create emotional space—because yes, your liver processes feelings too.
Small steps, big difference.
Essential Oils That Support Liver Health
You know I’m a huge fan of natural support, and when it comes to the liver, Young Living’s JuvaFlex and GLF blends are my go-tos.
Here’s my nighttime ritual:
After the kids are in bed, I rub a few drops of JuvaFlex or GLF over my liver area (right side, under the ribs). Sometimes I even pair it with a castor oil pack, take a few deep breaths, and pretend I’m at a fancy spa. 😂
It’s peaceful, grounding, and feels like saying “thank you” to my body.
NingXia Red: The Easiest Liver Love You’ll Ever Give
If you’re already sipping this magical red drink—yay, you! If not, here’s why I’m obsessed.
NingXia Red is packed with:
- Antioxidants from wolfberries (aka goji berries) that protect your liver cells
- Detox helpers like pomegranate and blueberry that make your liver’s job easier
- Nutrient-dense support for the whole family—because our kids’ livers deal with daily toxins too
It’s one of the easiest (and tastiest) ways to give your liver a big warm hug.
Final Thoughts from Across the Table
If you’ve been feeling a little “off” lately—low energy, cranky for no reason, skin acting up, or just feeling blah—this might be your cue to tune in.
Let’s stop waiting until our bodies shout. Let’s start listening to the whispers.
Your liver works hard for you every single day—so give it some love back.
And if you’re not sure where to start, I’m your girl. 💛
Let’s chat oils, NingXia, castor oil packs—all the things.
Let’s chat oils, NingXia, castor oil packs—all the things.
Big hugs and happy livers,
Terri
Terri
