243 – Are You Running on Empty? The Respite Plan Every Adoptive Parent Needs

Have you ever reached the end of the day feeling completely drained? 😔 Maybe you've spent every ounce of energy meeting everyone else’s needs. Maybe you’ve convinced yourself that taking a break is selfish. Maybe you’ve forgotten what it feels like to simply breathe. If that sounds familiar, this episode is for you. Hi Neighbor, Today we’re talking about something many adoptive parents know they need but often struggle to prioritize. Respite. 🌿 As parents, we naturally put our children first. We show up for appointments, therapies, school meetings, and the countless daily challenges that come with the adoption journey. But somewhere along the way, we often neglect ourselves. The truth is, you can’t continue pouring into others if your own cup is empty. In this episode, I recorded from one of my favorite places—Spring Mill State Park in southern Indiana. Surrounded by the sounds of a flowing stream and the beauty of God’s creation, I share why stepping away, even for a short time, has become one of the most important practices in my own life. 🌲 I also walk through a simple framework using the word RESPITE to help you intentionally build moments of rest and renewal into your life. ✍️ As I share some of my own experiences, my hope is that you’ll be encouraged to stop viewing respite as something you’ll get to someday and begin seeing it as an essential part of becoming the parent your child needs. You matter. Your health matters. ❤️ And taking care of yourself is one of the best ways you can continue caring for your family. Anchors of Hope and Healing are on the way. Your Neighbor, Tim P.S. If this podcast has given you the courage and confidence to face storms in your life, the number one way you can thank me is to leave a written review on Apple Podcasts. I recorded a quick video to show you how. Thanks so much!