When we are surrounded by specific norms, we no longer see them as optional but as “the way life is”. I want to challenge a few of those… Let’s jump right in! Here is how I define these words in the beginning pages of my book: subtle – (adj.) nuanced, delicate, skillful, laid back (verb)…
The Blue Dot Effect study shows how our brains tend to find something “wrong” or “scary” in situations—even if the actual danger has disappeared. The Blue Dot Effect study — here’s how it works: In the study, participants were shown a series of colored dots and were asked to identify which ones were blue. At…
Ever feel like your own expectations are tripping you up? Let’s break them down, examine what really matters, and find freedom in embracing the season you’re in. “There is no expectation without explanation.” – Leah Boden I have used this quote to improve my relationships with my kids, in homeschooling, and even in my marriage.…
The calendar change does not require an upending of my life, just encouragement to make small adjustments. Yesterday I sat in my quiet kitchen with gingerbread toast, a mug of English tea, and listened to a podcast that reminded me of a few of my foundational truths. “I want us all to have the foundational…
Feeling overwhelmed by life’s noise? A simple word can bring clarity, guiding you back to what’s essential and keeping your mind calm—no endless lists required! I sat at the kitchen table in the dim early morning light. The quiet curled around me with arms of comfort. I stared at the steam rising from my hot…
Relationships are hard. Humans are flawed and messy. (Especially me.) In honor of our anniversary, here are a few things that I have learned over the years. In the last 23 years, we have had some great moments and hard ones. We have had seasons of closeness and times when we each did our own…
Edwards Farmhouse happenings and of course the story and pictures of the newest addition to our home. This year I have leaned into the abundance of the Christmas season. On a whim, I decorated the house the weekend before Thanksgiving. It has made a huge difference for me. It has been so nice to separate…
Set the tone for a joyful holiday season by embracing calm, creating space, and preparing with these practical tips for navigating the busy Christmas season. Christmas is always a time of “extra things”. It is a level of busyness that is unmatched in any other part of the year. Multiple family gatherings, performances, school events,…
How I am finding inspiration in the quiet moments of burnout recovery and hoping to rediscover the joy of creativity after hitting pause. This fall as we started back to our school lessons and the schedule shifted, I felt my creativity drop. It was a subtle shift that happened over a month or so when…
Discover practical tips to help your kids fall in love with reading. Let’s turn books into a source of joy and curiosity, not just another homework assignment! [+ free printable] We can all agree that reading is a great way for our kids to spend some time this winter. Reading is more than just a…
Looking to break the monotony of adult life? This week, I dive into why hobbies are more than just fun—they’re essential for joy and balance. What if a hobby could actually make adult life more meaningful? I refuse to believe that adult life is meant to be miserable. I accept that this world is difficult,…
Photos are either taken by Mary Edwards or April Edwards.
Most are uploaded from the awesome site Unsplash.com.