The Refined Mother

Another episode in this series on navigating the trials of life. When you are in the battle, are you aware of who the true enemy is? Knowing the battle is a spiritual one, lends clarity in an otherwise confusing time. Knowing who we are fighting for and who we are fighting against helps us know hoew to arm ourselves and the battle tactics we should employ to gain true victory.

As we continue to talk about the time of trial in my life - I am going through the tools I had unknowingly packed in my "toolbox" that helped me endure and cling to God, when it felt impossible. This episode covers the intentional acts of:1. Remembering - Meditating on what God has done in your life and the lives of other, and all through the Bible - to shift your focus from your suffering to the truth of who He is.2. Deciding - Is He God or isn't He? And how does my answer determine the path I choose to travel.

Continuing to talk about my fiery trial and the tools I unknowingly had accumulated that really helped me through. The first tool was my daily habit of spending time with God.

In this raw and vulnerable episode, Katherine speaks of a time of terrible loss and unimaginable grief. She shares this story for the benefit of those who have been through, are going through, or have never been through the fires of life. To let you know, you are not alone in your grief, to have insight into those around you who might be in times of suffering, and to prepare you for when your own trials may come. It is filled with scriptures that carried her through theses early days of deep grief.This episode is followed by more episodes of practical advice and lifelines of hope. To draw you ever nearer to The Lord who comforts.

Have you ever wanted some real life insight into what foster care looks like - the ups, the downs and some pointers if its something you are considering, or if you know someone who is...This is what foster care looked like in our family...

Which is more important? Diet or exercise. Which one should I tackle first?Katherine discusses why you can't out exercise a bad diet, and why the foundations of healthy eating should be our first priority...and then exercise incorporated for the best overall health benefits.

We all lnow moving our bodies is important, yet it can seem so impossible. Hopefully this conversation will shift your mindset a little - from seeing movement as an impossible task to possible and highly achievable for you. Suggested resourcesCaroline Girvan Beginner Series:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhu1QCKrfgPUZ7_HDxP8P_-0ffNoobSDHCaroline Girvan Iron Series:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhu1QCKrfgPWmStsg7imo5EQ0zmkxymJ2The Nitric Oxide Dumphttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cyObE-gJ5LEIf you struggle with knee pain:https://www.youtube.com/c/thekneesovertoesguy

After learning all about taking care of the health in your family, here's a little episode concentrating on you! It's not going to be easy taking care of everyone else if you are neglecting YOU!Trim Healthy Website and free recipes:https://trimhealthymama.com/Free pdf of "Start, Refresh, Carry on" - 196 page explanation of the plan:https://www.trimhealthymedia.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/12/22194558/Trim-Healthy-Start-Refresh-Carry-On-4.pdfTo pre 0rder latest book "7 Skills to lasting Health" https://www.amazon.com/7-Skills-Lasting-Health/dp/0736994610Products I use:https://www.bulknutrients.com.au/products/whey-protein-isolatehttps://www.bulknutrients.com.au/products/essential-amino-acids-eaashttps://www.bulknutrients.com.au/products/creatine-monohydrate

Finally the long awaited meal suggestions to inspire you as you prepare nourishing meals for and with your family.

In this episode, we pause to ponder a couple of confusing concepts that might arise in all this Health Directorship:1. How do I show love to my family without sugar and refined carbs? Is it even possible?2. Can I take this too far? How can I rein myself in when I start stressing over feeding my family healthy food?Find some answers in this straightforward conversation.

In this 5th episode of the series, I explain how I set about changing the way we ate as a family in a non confrontational, and gentle way. Hopefully this will encourage you to take a slow, measured and sustainable approach which won't cause anarchy in your family!

The fourth in our series on nurturing a healthy home and family, this episode covers the 5 main food principles of what to (and not to) include in the meals we prepare for ourselves and our families.Another jam packed, and informative podcast to encourage and direct you!

Some things to consider as you embark on becoming The Health Director of your home. A lighthearted and thought provoking conversation to prepare you mind and attitudes for implementing healthy eating strategies for your family.The Family Table podcast :https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/oAuiCsy8OZb

In this second episode in the Health series, Katherine talks about her own health journey and that of her husband, Nic's. A lighthearted yet informative episode that further lays the foundation for what you will hear in the rest of the series.

This is the first in a series of podcasts about directing the health of your family in such a way that you foster lifelong habits, fuel growth and development in the bodies and minds of your children and nourish yourself to be the vibrant and energetic mother and wife you long to be!This first episode delves into why nutrition and food choices actually matter - food for thought!

A chatty and contemplative episode about our need for continuous discipleship, with Biblical examples and much encouragement. Discipleship helps us continually renew our thoughts and mind.Resolution of Resolutions podcast:https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/EILl0YxwCZbThe Bible Recap - Chronological Bible in a yearhttps://www.bible.com/organizations/baa1c8ac-aba4-42b7-9139-48ffb3baed68

Take a little break for this delightful story of a Christmas from years past. Listen with your children and be reminded of a time when gifts were small and very much appreciated, everybody did their share, children were children and screens were absent!

Peaceful car trips are possible. Listen for some hints and tips to transform your car rides with your kids into enjoyable, purposeful family time.

A pre - Christmas tidy sounds daunting and unpleasant...but I share the easy and fun way to get it done (with your children!) - ,and have a more organised, less cluttered Christmas

What Christmas traditions would you like to continue with your family in the lead up to Christmas?I discuss some that we found valuable and worth repeating and give some suggestions for you to consider. How do we keep our families focussed on Jesus in this season?Resource links:My Goodnight Christmas book and CDhttps://www.thriftbooks.com/w/my-good-night-christmas-with-read--sing-along-cd-my-good-night-collection_susan-l-lingo/1258722/?srsltid=AfmBOoo14ZAAhqhl_NneKQfcP61IjbzMHNxvzDB6PVBV-q6wZY3vRMSz#edition=3730187&idiq=24426301Nativity scene devotions:https://ministry-to-children.com/advent-lessons-nativity/Christmas Carol Devotionshttps://www.bible.com/reading-plans/41801-carols-and-lessons

If our preconceived ideas of marriage include - that it will lose its spark, passion and connectedness the longer we are married, we might be shortchanging ourselves, our spouses and our community. Make sure you glean an idea of what marriage should look like from amazing married Christian couples ...and aim higher! Marriage is more beautiful than we could ever hope or imagine!

Being a diligent wife and mother is commendable, until we start taking everything so seriously. Instead of being winsome, relateable and motivational...our bullishness makes us stressed, frazzled and avoidable. Listen to this episode to see if you have any ox-like tendencies and to know what to do about it.

As Christian women, we want to know we are walking in obedience to The Lord. We become discouraged when walking in His will is fraught with challenges. This often causes us to question whether we heard correctly in the first place, or have misunderstood His direction for us. This podcast offers Biblical encouragement for these puzzling times of life.

What is holding you back from embracing the freedom given to you by Christ? What keeps you from stepping into the life of peace, joy and purpose that The Lord has for you?I tell a few stories in this episode to illustrate practically how we can often stay in bondage if we don't assess what is blocking our way. And as usual, the truths are Scriptural.

Loneliness in early motherhood is a very common feeling. This is a frank conversation bringing it out into the open and with some practical insights and actions to help navigate these moments.

In this podcast I talk about some things I wish I had realised and considered when dealing with my mothers. Thinking about these things could foster more meaningful relationships with less misunderstandings...

The quality of loyalty has a significant impact on the intimacy and warmth of our relationships. It is not a quality that gets much attention, but it was a game changer in my family once I truly understood its value and impact, and changed the way I did things.

Another podcast with practical tips to help you homeschool successfully and efficiently. This episode is also helpful for setting up a homework space if you aren't homeschooling and for thinking about setting work standards for your children.

In this episode, we revisit the previous 2 episodes on marriage, clarifying some of the points which could be a little confusing.

Continuing on with the things that have worked for us, as I reflect on 30 years and the great, God-honouring marriage we find ourselves with today. Some of these tips are challenging and tough. So brace yourself. But I wouldn't share them if I didn't believe they were worth it!

Celebrating 30 years of marriage caused me to reflect on what has contributed to a strong marriage over the years. This is the first part of a 2 part series, in which I share those as tips for you.

Is there a better way to solve problems, find solutions and navigate difficulties than the way I'm doing so now? Is there a way to find more peace and less anxiety when facing the cares of everyday life?That's what Im exploring in this podcast!

I share the impact prayer journalling has had on my life, as well as 11 benefits of becoming a prayer journaler. As well as how to start.https://www.notebookandpenguin.com/christian-journaling-benefits/

How do we start the Homeschooling process with our young children? What is the best way to prepare them for their start into the world of literacy and numeracy? How do I know when to start?This episode answers these questions and more and also has a great time sensitive offer on a reading and writing course membership.To learn more about Refined Reading and access the free printable PDFs on Reading and Writing skills and readiness checklists, follow this link: https://therefinedmother.com/what-is-refined-reading/To purchase the course for 75%off for 5 months use the code "podcast" (no quotation marks) and use this link:https://therefinedmother.com/membership-account/membership-levels/Further reading:"The Unhurried Homeschooler" by Durenda WilsonIf you are looking for a course to teach you infants to swim go to "The Waterbaby Family" on Instagram or Facebook

A follow on episode from "Are you in your lane?. This episode features my friend Cindy and her remarkable story of God's golden thread woven through the fabric of her life. She illustrates how we can trust The Lord, surrender and stay in our Lane. Her story is followed by an example of someone who had a lot to learn in this area!

Free yourself from needless worry, distraction and obsessive thoughts, and live more effectively when you consider staying in your own lane and doing what The Lord has given you authority over.This episode delves into all of this, with some practical applications...as always!Book suggestion:"Stay in your Lane ...worry less, love more..and get things done" by Kevin Thompson

In this episode I give an overview of how we went about our homeschooling. Our daily schedule. Some of our curriculum choices. And I explain how I kept it as uncomplicated and focussed as possible...This will give you a bit of an overview, and perhaps an idea or two to consider.

What are the characteristics which constitute femininity? How do we cultivate our feminity to draw our husband towards us magnetically, and to deepen our intimacy? How do we honour all that God has created us to be, as women? Is it all wrapped up in the outward package of how we look, move and speak? Or are there some secret ingredients that we haven't quite understood or practiced?This is an enlightening and life changing podcast. I know...because my marriage is closer and more intimate than ever!

A short podcast to help you evaluate if homeschooling could be for your family

With Brookelynne expecting her third baby while recording this podcast, we too took the opportunity to discuss her thoughts and experiences. A valuable listen for anyone planning to start a family or expecting their first baby. https://silveretteaustralia.com/collections/all?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20765428971&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI36W5uMnHjQMVQVsPAh1UtiRsEAAYAyAAEgJfiPD_BwEhttps://www.empoweredmother.com.au/memberships-newhttps://realfoodforpregnancy.com/book/https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26240610-the-first-forty-dayshttps://www.thethompsonmethod.com/breastfeeding-coursehttps://www.chemistwarehouse.com.au/buy/100415/medela-contact-nipple-shield-medium

A quick story of how we ended up homeschooling our children, why we loved it...and a discussion about the common misconceptions held about homeschooling.If you are questioning whether this is the route God has for your family, I recommend visiting Durenda Wilson’s website https://www.durendawilson.com, and listening to her podcasts. She also has 2 wonderful books:The Four Hour School Day https://www.durendawilson.com/product-page/the-four-hour-school-day and The Unhurried Homeschooler https://www.durendawilson.com/product-page/the-unhurried-homeschooler. I also found great value in the book by Sarah Mackenzie, Teaching from Rest https://readaloudrevival.com/rest/ which is also available on audio.

Brookelynne and I chat about the Biblical basis for maintaining sexual purity before marriage, some practical helps, and also some helpful tips for parents as they guide their young people in this area.

A short episode to encourage the mothers among my listeners!https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-durenda-wilson-podcast/id1273544623

In this conversation with Brookelynne, we discuss all things "Dating and Engagement". Older teen girls and young women (and actually, young men would benefit, too) will enjoy listening in on this conversation, with much food for thought and consideration as we navigate this beautiful and exciting time of life, in a way that glorifies God. A great listen for mothers of girls who are dating or who are considering engagement, too. Learn how to parent well, during this phase in your daughter's life!https://youtube.com/live/WuT3dQt6A2E?si=M5bH2ORE_cAhW56Uhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UB3GfvRLP2ghttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4G6jKCYcYU

Meet my lovely "mentee" Brookelynne, in this episode. And listen in on our conversation about the unexpected benefits of having a mentor.Notes:Now that we're a family podcast:https://open.spotify.com/show/1zyDV4uGtZ3u8iUFbW46ZHJohn McArthur "Grace to You Church"Elisabeth ElliottValerie ElliottSusanne J. Heck - "With the Master"Abbie Halberstadt - "M is for Mama" and "Hard is not the same thing as Bad"and podcast - "M is for Mama podcast"

How do I encourage my children to play? They get bored so easily...They don't know how to entertain themselves...and why is play so important anyway?In this episode I share how vital play is for every aspect of your child's development. a child who has enough time to play is on track to be a healthy, well balanced adult. I also share some practical tips from my own experience as a mum, that I hope will help you foster playtime for your family.

In each of us is a necessity to create. Because we are made in the image of our Creator God. Creativity comes in all shapes and forms, from arranging scatter cushions on a bed, to making a toolrack in the shed. We often neglect this side of our personality...mainly because life is lived in a rush. Learn about the benefits of hobbies for you and your children, and glean some practical tips for how to incorporate them into your life.

All through the Bible, we are called to obedience. As we train our children up in the faith, we have the wonderful opportunity to train them in obedience, too. To set them up for obeying God, but also to have a calm, orderly, respectful home environment. This is a practical conversation to help you decide how to navigate training your children in this area.

One aspect of life that we often overlook, or spend too little time on, is on training our children about money. How God sees it, and how they can learn to steward his gift well. I share practical examples from our own family - ways we made sure our children understood that money is a result of hard work, the value of money and the responsibilities of managing finances well.

Discover why it's so valuable to train your children to be contributing members of the family by implementing chores!Have more time, be more relaxed, and get more done...but most of all...equip your children to be successful adults.