Parenting a special needs child comes with unique challenges, deep joys, and life-changing lessons. In this heartfelt episode, Julie Adam shares her journey of adopting Lola Ruth, a tiny Bulgarian orphan with Down syndrome, and the struggles of being a special needs parent. From navigating adoption hurdles to facing unexpected medical challenges, Julie opens up about her faith, resilience, and the vital role of community. As a single mother, she’s learned the importance of accepting support for parents with a special needs child—from family, friends, and church. Julie’s story is a reminder that these families need our awareness, compassion, and practical help. Hear how Lola Ruth is already fulfilling God’s plan for her life and why Julie is grateful to be part of it.

You may be surprised to learn that many of the ways we respond to our loved ones are based on fear rather than love. Transformational life coach AnnMarie Chereso tells us how we can change this tendency. We talk about how women are particularly sensitive to others' energy, and what that means for their role in the world. How does you guide your older children to seek first an "exquisite" life? What is the most potentially damaging thing we do to our kids as parents? How can we teach our kids to be community-builders? We've got the answers in this packed episode. Enjoy!

Lessons From Living Podcast with Beth Graham, LessonsFromLiving.net

Need a few moments to yourself? Before turning to screen time, let’s explore some thoughtful options! In this episode, Mama Martha shares how she approached limited screen use while raising her children—and what she's learning now with her young granddaughter. We dive into research on the effects of screen time on toddler brain development and the value of setting healthy limits. Plus, we discuss creative ways to make reading fun and meaningful, turning books into opportunities for bonding and lasting memories.

Show Notes:

Music by JoyStock

raisewildflowers.com

Super Simple Songs

Bluey Show

Sandra Boynton books

Eric Carle books

Kid to Kid Consignment stores

https://imaginationlibrary.com/

James' book suggestions:

The Day the Crayons Quit, Drew Daywalt

Henny Penny, Paul Galdone

Three More Stories You Can Read to Your Cat, Sara Swan Miller

Up the Mountain Path, Marianne Dubuc

Sleep Tight Farm, Eugenie Doyle

Little Witch Hazel, Phoebe Wahl

The Poky Little Puppy, Janetter Sebring Lowrey

The Digger and the Flower, Joseph Kuefler