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Money Saving Mom

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Shared Nov 1, 2021 comment

I love this lightweight jacket for just $17 shipped! (Reg. $90)

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I love this lightweight jacket for just $17 shipped! (Reg. $90)

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Wow! Don’t miss this deal on a Madden Girl Women’s Jacket!!

If you missed this deal last time, it’s back at an even lower price!

Proozy currently has this Madden Girl Women’s Jacket for just $17 shipped when you use code MSM111AM-17-FS at checkout. This jacket is regularly $90, so this is a super HOT deal!!

There are two colors to choose from — Dusty Pink or Black. Available in sizes S, M, or L.

Proozy sent me this jacket a while back and I am super impressed with the quality for the price!! It’s SO cozy on the inside from the fleece lining and it’s perfect for fall weather. You can see my full review + how it fits me on my FB Live earlier this year.

Valid through November 7th, while supplies last.

Go here to grab this hot deal!

Money Saving Mom
Shared Oct 31, 2021 comment

3 Books I Finished Recently

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3 Books I Finished Recently

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Welcome to my book update post where I share what books I finished recently + my honest thoughts and star ratings of them.

It’s been a little while since I’ve posted a book update — mostly because I’ve struggled to finish books recently! I have a lot of books I’ve started, but I went for almost 5 weeks without finishing a single book!!

I think that between multiple trips + lots of extra activities and responsibilities in our life + lots of emotional energy expended on praying about and processing the unexpected news about possibly adopting Baby D.

But this past week, I feel like I finally got make into my reading rhythm again and finished a few books! Let’s hope this is the start of a lot more reading — and finishing! — books!

Here are my honest reviews of the three books I finished recently:

A Life Intercepted

I’ve been slowly listening to Charles Martin’s novels. This one reminded me of a modern-day story of the Biblical story of Joseph, even though the author never said that was his intent.

If you enjoy sports stories, stories that kind of gritty and real, and have a beautiful redemption story interwoven throughout, I think you’ll enjoy this book. It’s also a clear picture of how much jealousy can ruin our lives — and others. And how forgiveness is the key to real joy and freedom.

Verdict: 4 stars

A Surrendered Yes

I don’t read a lot of devotionals, but this one caught my eye — especially because of the foster care and adoption journey we’re on and because the author, Rebekah Lyons, has two children with Down syndrome — one they adopted.

While many of the stories and points in this devotional were ones I’ve heard Rebekah talk about in her other books, it was a really fantastic refresher and an encouragement to me in this season of life. And if you follow me on Instagram, you’ve heard me share multiple quotes from this book as I’ve read through it the past two months.

(Stay tuned for a really raw and honest and inspirational podcast interview I did with Rebekah on this topic!)

Verdict: 3 stars

The BFG

I don’t know what I think of this book. I have enjoyed reading other Roald Dahl books with the kids… but this one was just weird. And the whole premise could be very scary to some sensitive kids.

But I read it aloud to Kierstyn and we finished it, so that tells you it wasn’t awful. It just left me confused and shaking my head that something about the whole book just seemed a little on the creepy side. Anyone else? (A bunch of people on Amazon very much disagree with me in their glowing reviews!)

Verdict: 2 stars

dry shampoo
Shared Oct 30, 2021 comment

Get a HOT deal on my favorite dry shampoo!

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Get a HOT deal on my favorite dry shampoo!

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Don’t miss this great deal on my favorite Living Proof Dry Shampoo!

dry shampoo

Wow! Nordstrom has this Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo Duo for just $35 shipped right now!

That’s just $17.50 per bottle shipped which is a great deal and beats Amazon’s price of $26 per bottle.

If you’ve been following for any length of time, you know that I’m a BIG fan of Living Proof Dry Shampoo! In fact, they’re a big part of why I’m able to only wash my hair once per week.

It is perfect on those days when you just don’t have the energy or time to wash your hair. I actually put it in the roots of my hair before bed every night and then put my hair up in a really high ponytail with a scrunchie. This allows me to only wash my hair once a week and to be able to fix my hair in just a few minutes every day.

Get your Living Proof Dry Shampoo Duo Pack here.

Thanks, Midwest Money Saving Mommas!

Shared Oct 30, 2021 comment

Brigette’s $97 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 6

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Brigette’s $97 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 6

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Aldi

Pineapple – $1.19

1 3-lb bag Granny Smith Apples – $2.49

2 cans French Green Beans – $0.74

1 bag frozen Riced Cauliflower – $1.89

1 3-ct pkg Multi-Colored Peppers – $2.49

1 bag Mini Sweet Peppers – $2.79

1 pkg Romaine – $1.99

1 tub Artisan Lettuce – $1.99

1 bag Carrots – $0.69

1 pkg Zucchini ($1.19/lb) – $2.08

1 bag Red Grapes ($0.95/lb) – $2.13

1 bag fresh Spinach – $0.79

1 16-oz bag Mini Cucumbers – $1.49

1 gallon Whole Milk – $1.43

1 gallon 1% Milk – $1.43

2 64-oz cartons Orange Juice – $3.18

1/2 gallon Unsweetened Almond Milk – $1.49

1 16-oz carton Heavy Whipping Cream – $1.25

1 5-lb roll 73/27 Ground Beef, reduced – $9.45

1 pkg Deli Meat – $2.49

2 pkgs fresh Chicken Drumsticks (reduced to 50% off – $0.69/lb) – $5.80

1 pkg fresh boneless Chicken Breasts ($1.79/lb) – $19.79

1-lb pkg Turkey Bacon – $1.89

2 pkgs Pepperoni – $3.98

2 boxes Crisp Rice – $2.70

1 box Rice Squares – $1.39

1 box Cocoa Rice – $1.45

1 32-oz box Elbow Macaroni – $1.09

2 boxes Macaroni and Cheese – $0.68

1 large canister Old Fashioned Oats – $2.19

1 16-oz bag Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – $2.29

1 16-oz bag Shredded Cheddar Cheese – $2.29

4 8-oz blocks Mozzarella Cheese – $5.00

1 8-oz pkg Deli Sliced Cheese – $1.49

2 1-lb boxes Butter – $4.24

1 16-oz jar Peanut Butter – $1.29

1 jar Organic Fruit Jam – $1.49

1 bag Flour Tortillas – $0.55

1 loaf Sandwich Bread – $0.50

1 pkg Hamburger Buns – $0.59

1 package Rice Cakes – $1.75

2 bags Marshmallows – $1.78

Grocery Total for the Week: $97.69

Weekly Menu Plan

Breakfasts

Oatmeal, Cereal, Scrambled/Fried/Boiled Eggs, Veggie Omelets (eggs from our friend’s chickens), Smoothies, Fruit

Lunches

Macaroni and Cheese, Apples, Peppers

Deli Meat and Cheese Sandwiches, Grapes, Carrots x 2

Pb and J on Rice Cakes, Cucumbers, Apples x 2

Leftovers x 2

Dinners

Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese (meatless), Broccoli (from the freezer), Pineapple

Potluck Dinner with Friends (I’m bringing a big batch of Pepperoni Rolls and Rice Krispy Treats)

Oven Fried Chicken Drumsticks, Tossed Salad, Green Beans, Homemade Bread

Chicken and Rice Soup, Biscuits, Tossed Salad

Build-Your-Own-Burritos, Cauliflower Rice

Pancakes, Bacon, Scambled Eggs

Hamburgers, Baked Potatoes, Grilled Peppers and Zucchini

Money Saving Mom
Shared Oct 29, 2021 comment

Book Club: Week #8

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Book Club: Week #8

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

I’m hosting a free online book club for my book, Love-Centered Parenting!

Whether you’ve already read the book and just want a refresher or to hear more of my thoughts and encouragement on the book, whether you have the book and need some accountability to actually read it, or whether you are on the fence as to whether this book is for you, I’d love for you to join us!

I’m hosting the book club on Instagram, but you don’t have to have an account to watch the videos! I’ll be doing a live video every Wednesday on one chapter of the book and will be posting the replay on IGTV.

Here’s how to join us for the book club:

1. Follow on Instagram (if you would like).

2. Watch Book Club Video #1 (it’s only 10 minutes long and tells the story behind why I wrote the book), watch Book Club Video #2 (it’s also 10 minutes long and tells more of hitting rock bottom as a parent), watch Book Club Video #3, watch Book Club Video #4, watch Book Club Video #5, watch Book Club Video #6, watch Book Club Video #7, watch Book Club video #8, and watch Book Club video #9.

3. Read or listen to the introduction of Love-Centered Parenting. (You can purchase it here or from ChristianBook.com or check to see if your library carries it or if it’s available for free on Hoopla or Libby.)

I hope you can join us and that these videos are an encouragement to you! I’m cheering for you!

WANT TO SAVE $100 FAST?!Join the FREE 14-Day Savings Challenge!

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Shared Oct 27, 2021 comment

The Story Behind Our Unexpected Adoption News

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The Story Behind Our Unexpected Adoption News

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Powered by RedCircle

If you follow me on Instagram, or Facebook, we already announced the big news, but on the podcast today, we get to tell the story behind the news. Listen in to hear all the details on our unexpected adoption story + we share what is saving our lives, books we’re reading, and more! 

In This Episode

[00:37] – Welcome to The Crystal Paine Show today we are sharing some pretty big news.

[01:21] – Jesse shares our big news.

[02:05] – Jesse had an eventful 24 hours.

[04:27] – I’ve been reading Friendship, It’s Complicated: Avoid the Drama, Create Authentic Connection, and Fulfill Your Purpose Together.

[06:36] – Andi talks about your relationship with your mom and how that can affect your relationship with other women. And it’s made me think a lot of how I’m interacting with our girls. 

[07:16] – Jesse is continuing on listening to the audiobook series from Brad Taylor.

[08:39] – Look for those little pockets of time and check out Libby and Hoopla.

[11:01] – What’s saving our life this week and that’s YumEarth Suckers.

[12:59] – We want to share our unexpected adoption journey story. 

[14:22] – I felt us falling so in love with him and yet I saw it as such an honor to get to serve as the in-between.

[20:10] – We had been preparing our hearts for goodbye and what the next step, the next chapter of our foster care journey was going to be. And so then, it was this mental and emotional whiplash.

[22:12] – A wise question that Katie Reid asked me.

Links & Resources

How to Listen to The Crystal Paine Show

The podcast is available on iTunes, Android, Stitcher, and Spotify. You can listen online through the direct player here. OR, a much easier way to listen is by subscribing to the podcast through a free podcast app on your phone. (Find instructions for how to subscribe to a podcast here.) Ready to dive in and listen? Hit the player above or search for “The Crystal Paine Show” on your favorite podcast app.

Money Saving Mom
Shared Oct 26, 2021 comment

A Peek Into Last Week

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A Peek Into Last Week

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

After a few weeks of slowly transitioning Baby D over to his new food, he is now fully on the Complete food and is doing so well on it! He’s struggled with a lot of reflux and weight gain issues in his lifetime, so we are thrilled that he is thriving on this big diet change!

I took these pictures of her all ready for church on Sunday morning.

This dress was one I picked up at a free consignment event for foster families and I just love it!

Look at all that hair!!

My brother and sister-in-law gave these to me and they are SO good! Have you had them before?

It is so fun to see him engaging with toys and with his world so much!

This girl is just pure sunshine! She learns more and more words and signs every week and it’s so cool for her to be able to communicate with us so much now… and to realize how much she understands of what we say, too!

A lot of my day involves syringes. I never could have dreamed that would be a statement I would make a few years ago! And the thought of deal with all the medical stuff we do on a daily basis would have overwhelmed me, but now it’s just part of my life!

And I wouldn’t trade any of it for the joy of loving on this sweet boy! He is a constant gift to our home.

He woke up in the middle of the night with a cough and some breathing issues one night last week, so I got him into the pediatrician just to make sure it wasn’t RSV or anything. Gratefully, it wasn’t and he’s doing much better! He has his big cleft palate surgery next week, so we are hoping he stays well!

One of his favorite things is to pull our face to his and snuggle up against our face and give us kisses. It is just the most precious thing!

Since Silas is on both a travel baseball team and a rec baseball team this fall, we spend a lot of time at the ball field (he usually has at least 3 games plus a practice or two each week)! And I love getting to watch and cheer him on.

And I’ve gotten really good at keeping these two (mostly) happy and occupied by myself during the rec games (Jesse is an assistant coach on the rec team and the girls often have work or homework and can’t come).

Do you cut your containers open, too? I’m always amazed at how much more is hiding in them!

This is such a real-life picture, but I love the togetherness and joy on the faces of my family. I’m so grateful for how much the older three love doting on, playing with, and hanging out with Kierstyn and Baby D!

She is obsessed with Theo, the hedgehog right now. Usually every morning and every night, she goes down to check on him and see if he needs anything.

She’s getting really good at knowing when he needs more water and food — and is almost able to get that for him by herself, even if it’s a little messy!

Jesse took this picture at baseball the other night. Look at that sky!!

This is how she prefers to eat right now — on the floor, in a squat!

It was a beautiful day today and I took these two to the park to meet a friend and her little girl for a walk!

Shared Oct 26, 2021 comment

Gretchen’s $86 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 5

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Gretchen’s $86 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 5

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Aldi

1 lb Ground Beef – $3.29

1 pkg Boneless Chicken Breasts – $5.75

1 pkg Lasagna Noodles – $1.59

1 box MooTubes – $1.55

2 Half & Half – $1.55 each

1 carton Orange Juice – $1.99

1 gallon Milk – $2.60

1 Marinara Sauce – $0.85

1 can Diced Tomatoes – $0.59

3.56 lbs Bananas – $1.28

1 pkg Tilapia – $7.15

1 box Fruit & Grain Bars – $1.35

1 pkg Flour Tortillas – $1.49

1 pkg Romaine Lettuce – $2.79

1 can Black Beans – $0.55

1 Rice Cakes – $1.99

1 Honey Bear – $2.85

1 can Chunk Tuna – $0.65

1 pkg Oven Roasted Turkey Breast – $4.35

1 bag Grapefruit – $2.99

1 can Chili Beans – $0.50

1 Sour Cream – $0.85

1 bag Corn Chips – $0.89

1 can Pumpkin – $0.85

1 Mayonnaise – $2.29

1 bag Pretzels – $0.82

1 pkg Sliced Cheese – $1.75

1 pkg Hot Dogs – $0.79

1 lb Butter – $2.66

1 pkg Vine Tomatoes – $1.99

1 pkg Strawberries – $2.49

2.44 lbs Red Grapes – $2.90

1 pkg Baby Carrots – $0.89

1.08 lbs Peaches – $1.50

1 bag Spinach – $1.19

1 loaf Bread – $0.85

1 pkg Hot Dog Buns – $0.79

1 pkg Deli Rolls – $1.99

1 Cucumber – $1.29

Total: $78.71

Harris Teeter

1 pkg Klondike Reese’s Bars – $3.99, used Free Fetch rebate – Free after rebate

2 Annie’s Mac & Cheese – $1 each

3 dozen Eggs – $0.77 each

5 Ken’s Salad Dressing – $1.27 each, used 5 $0.65/1 Ibotta rebates – $0.62 each after rebates

1 box Quaker Grits – $1.99, used $1.25/1 e-coupon – $0.74 after coupon

Received $0.10 Ibotta cash back

Total: $7.63

Publix

1 Muscle Milk – $3.49, used Free Publix e-coupon – Free after coupon

1 Rockstar Zero – $2.50, used Free Publix e-coupon – Free after coupon

2 boxes Cereal – $2.06 each, used two Free Publix e-coupons – Free after coupons

Total: $0.00

Total for all stores: $86.34

Menu Plan for This Week

Breakfasts

Cereal, Eggs, Spinach Smoothies, Yogurt, Fruit, Grits

Lunches

Peanut Butter & Jelly Rice Cake Sandwiches/Grapes, Mac & Cheese/Peaches x 2, Hot Dogs/Carrot Sticks/Cucumbers, Cheese/Pretzels/Fruit, Leftovers x 2

Dinners

Hoagie Sandwiches, Chips, Strawberries

Chili, Corn Chips, Veggies

Grilled Tilapia, Homemade Bread, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans

Lasagna, Homemade Rolls, Tossed Salad

Chicken & Rice, Steamed Broccoli

Pancakes, Eggs

Cheese Pizza, Breadsticks, Tossed Salad

Money Saving Mom
Shared Oct 24, 2021 comment

Last Week’s Aldi & Kroger $68 Shopping Trip

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Last Week’s Aldi & Kroger $68 Shopping Trip

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

I went to Aldi and Kroger last week — after three weeks of doing grocery pickup. It was so good to shop in-store again… even if I didn’t get that many great deals!

A lot of people had asked whether I had noticed grocery prices going up recently. I haven’t noticed many price increases at Kroger, but I was really shocked by how much prices had gone up at Aldi! I hadn’t been in maybe 3 months and so many item were $0.25 to $0.50 higher than they used to be!

In fact, I feel like some of the Aldi prices were higher than some Kroger regular prices and a lot of them were definitely higher than the Kroger sale prices!

But they did have a great deal on apples — $1.99 for a 3-lb. bag!

Here’s what I ended up getting. It was $48 (including tax) for all of this.

And then I ran by a Kroger store that I don’t usually shop at and go around $20 worth of items — including the Ground Turkey that was on sale for $2.49 each with the weekly digital deal.

Shared Oct 23, 2021 comment

Brigette’s $93 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 6

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Brigette’s $93 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 6

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Aldi

1 pkg Tortillas – $0.95

1 bag Corn Chips – $0.89

1 bag Veggie Straws – $1.92

1 bag Plain Rice Cakes – $1.75

1 loaf Sandwich Bread – $0.50

1 pkg Hot Dog Buns – $0.58

2 dozen Eggs – $1.98

1 16-oz pkg Deli Meat – $2.49 (somehow not in the picture)

1 pkg Boneless Chicken Breasts ($1.79/lb) – $11.70

1 pkg Turkey Franks – $2.19

1 8-oz pkg Sliced Cheese – $1.25

2 16-oz bags Shredded Cheddar Cheese – $5.18

6 single-serving cartons Greek Yogurt – $3.54

1 can Parmesan Cheese – $2.15

1 family-size box Cheese Crackers – $2.55

1 jar Pasta Sauce – $1.49 (I just realized that pasta sauce has basically doubled in price at Aldi!)

1 bag Red Grapes ($1.29/lb) – $3.86

1 tub Baby Bella Mushrooms – $0.99

3 cans Diced Tomatoes – $1.77

5 bags frozen Broccoli Florets – $4.25

2 bags frozen Green Beans – $3.50

1 bag Mini Sweet Peppers – $2.79

4 cans Green Beans – $1.56

1 bag Romaine Hearts – $2.19

1 large tub Organic Spring Mix – $3.89

1 Cauliflower – $2.29

1 12-pk Apple Cinnamon Squeezies – $3.49

1 pkg Beefsteak Tomatoes – $1.99

1 3-ct pkg Multi-Colored Peppers – $2.99

1 16-oz bag Mini Cucumbers – $1.99

2 large cans Pinto Beans – $1.86

1 can Garbanzo Beans – $0.39

2 cans Tomato Sauce – $0.38

1 gallon Whole Milk – $1.43

1/2 gallon 1% Milk – $0.80

2 64-oz cartons Orange Juice – $3.18

1/2 gallon Unsweetened Almond MIlk – $1.49

1 32-oz carton Half and Half – $1.39

1 24-oz carton Cottage Cheese – $1.49

1 large jar BBQ Sauce – $2.15

Grocery Total for the Week: $93.22

Weekly Menu Plan

Breakfasts

Oatmeal, Cereal, Yogurt, Fruit, Fried/Scrambled/Boiled Eggs, Veggie Omelets, Smoothies

Lunches

Deli Meat/Cheese Sandwiches, Veggie Straws, Grapes, Cucumbers x 2

Cheese Crackers/Rice Cakes with Peanut Butter, Applesauce, Peppers x 2

Leftovers x 3

Dinners

Build-Your-Own-Tacos  (Seasoned Ground Venison, Shredded Lettuce, Chopped Tomatoes, Plain GReek Yogurt, Salsa, Chopped Onions, Corn Chips, Tortillas, Cooked Rice), Green Beans

Venison Chili with Shredded Cheese, World’s Best Honey Cornbread

Chicken Rice Soup (I’ll add green beans and leave out the celery since none of us like it), Biscuits

BBQ Venison Meatballs, Broccoli, Tossed Salad, Leftover Biscuits

Hot Dogs, Broccoli, Cheesy Fried Potatoes

Baked Chicken, Broccoli, Homemade French Bread, Tossed Salad

Dinner Out (The older two children are gone on a teen campout, so it will just be 4 of us – and a giftcard from a friend!)

OVER-SPENDING EVERY SINGLE MONTH?Grab these FREE Budgeting Sheets!

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Shared Oct 22, 2021 comment

You Were Made For This Moment (with Max Lucado)

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You Were Made For This Moment (with Max Lucado)

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

It was an honor to have Max Lucado in studio recently to talk about his new book, You Were Made For This Moment: Courage for Today and Hope for Tomorrow.

We begin the conversation with me sharing about how his children’s book, You Are Special, deeply impacted my life. And then Max shared the really amazing story behind the book which you don’t want to miss!

He also shared how he got started writing, about his time in Brazil, how he first made writing a priority while being a missionary, and then we transitioned to talking about his latest book, You Were Made For This Moment.

Max shares the powerful story of Esther and the lessons we can learn for modern times from this story in the Bible. We talk about showing up and how God uses that moment of showing up, even when you don’t recognize it. That you never know how those decisions to show up and step out could make such a difference long-term.

This podcast episode is packed with encouragement and inspiration and I hope it blesses you as it did me!

Powered by RedCircle

In This Episode

[00:37] – Welcome to The Crystal Paine Show today we have in the studio is Max Lucado.

[01:01] – I have actually only read one book by Max Lucado and it was actually a children’s book.

[04:54] – Max shares the fascinating story behind that children’s book — which I loved hearing!

[05:10] – I ask Max to tell us more about his background.

[07:15] – He talked about becoming a Christian and signing up to be a missionary — and I had to have him tell us more about that.

[09:24] – How did you start your writing career?

[12:19] – How can a good God be allowing all the things that have happened in the world in the last 18 months?

[15:14] – What is it about the Esther story that you see that is going to infuse people with hope?

[16:13] – Esther is one of the two books in the Bible where the name of God does not appear and yet the fingerprints of God are on every paragraph.

[19:03] – Max tells us the story of Esther — and I learn some new facts I’ve never known before, even though I’ve read this book many times!

[22:20] – What does that look like practically, for people who they’re saying “I want to do something with my life, I feel like there’s more than just what I am living for right now but I don’t even know how to take the first step”?

[26:07] – What encouragement would you have for someone who is feeling scared about stepping out in faith?

Links & Resources

How to Listen to The Crystal Paine Show

The podcast is available on iTunes, Android, Stitcher, and Spotify. You can listen online through the direct player here. OR, a much easier way to listen is by subscribing to the podcast through a free podcast app on your phone. (Find instructions for how to subscribe to a podcast here.) Ready to dive in and listen? Hit the player above or search for “The Crystal Paine Show” on your favorite podcast app.

Money Saving Mom
Shared Oct 20, 2021 comment

Want to make a difference in the lives of kids in South Africa?

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Want to make a difference in the lives of kids in South Africa?

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

If you’ve followed here for awhile, you know how passionate I am about South Africa and the ministry there (Take Action Ministry) that you all help to fund by visiting this site on a regular basis (thank you so much!)

Take Action Ministry is a registered non-profit organization based in South Africa and run by the locals there. They have 17 different Partner Centres that reach some of the most vulnerable children there — many who come from child-headed households. The Centres provide food, tutoring, and a safe place for kids to go to after school (or during school for the toddlers and babies). Most of all, they teach kids about Jesus and help them learn character and a strong work ethic.

We’ve gotten to go and visit many of these Centres and see the work they are doing and spend time with the children and care-givers. Understanding just how much of a difference they are making is the reason we give a big portion of our personal income to help fund this ministry.

How you can make a difference in lives of children in South Africa!

I wanted to invite you to be involved in the work they are doing this Christmas. These 17 Centres reach and impact around 1000 children and we’d like to partner with Take Action Ministry to provide a small gift bag to each of these 1000 children for Christmas.

Each gift bag will include a toothbrush, toothpaste, a face cloth, a bar of soap, a small toy, a package of candy, and a stationery pack. I can only imagine how much these children’s faces are going to light up with joy and delight when they realize they all get their own Christmas gift bags!!

Give $10 = Bring So Much Joy to a Child

The gift bags will cost $10 each in US dollars and Take Action Ministry is hoping to raise enough donations in the next few weeks to buy 1000 gift bags.

Would you pray about donating $10 (or more!) to provide a gift bag for one of these children — and to bring so much joy to them this Christmas? Or maybe your kids would like to come up with creative ways to earn money to pay for a Christmas bag for a child in South Africa? I can’t wait to hear what you come up with.

Thank you, in advance, for being part of this special opportunity!

Go here to donate to the Christmas Gift Bag drive online.

Money Saving Mom
Shared Oct 19, 2021 comment

A Peek Into the Last Two Weeks

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A Peek Into the Last Two Weeks

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

My parents organized a trip to Branson for my 40th birthday (we used to go to Silver Dollar City almost every year as kids and it was often around my birthday). Two of my brothers and their families were able to come, as well. We had a great time!

She asked me to ride with her on the Pirate Ship. I don’t enjoy this ride, but when your 16-year-old daughter asks you to ride with her, you do! 🙂 And of course she wanted to ride in the top row! 😉

Kierstyn loved getting to hang out with her cousins!

Baby D did SO well! He’s just one of the easiest babies ever and brings so much joy to our home!

My parents watched Kierstyn and Baby D for awhile so that Jesse and I could go around and ride some rides by ourselves and with the three older kids. It was so much fun!

The new water ride was a big favorite!

And we also found apple dumplings with cinnamon ice cream!

This sweet boy loves to give hugs and kisses. He fell asleep on Jesse like this.

My sweet friend, Kate, planned a special birthday night for me at her house — complete with my favorite food from the Cheesecake Factory.

Jesse and the three older kids planned a special surprise evening for me — including getting babysitters! I tried to get it out of them what we were doing, but no one would say a peep. They planned a fun Escape Game (which we escaped from — yay!)

Then, we went out for Indian food at a new-to-us restaurant!

We finished out the evening with cups of steaming tea. So delicious and it reminded us of our trips to India!

She is just the most delightful child. She is constantly learning new words and surprising us by what she figures out.

In a world with so much upheaval and unknowns, her infectious joy keeps us all grounded!

Shoes are her new love! She’s always trying to put on our shoes and walk around!

Look at this boy sitting!! He has made huge strides in the last few weeks and we just continue to be amazed and celebrate his progress!

I got to travel with Kathrynne to Oswego, IL to speak at another Fresh Grounded Faith event.

We had to hit up Portillo’s — which we were told was a must-eat-at place when in the Chicago area!

We got a Chicago dog, fries with cheese sauce, and a chocolate cake shake. It was yummy!

It was an honor to get to share a little about our infertility/foster care/adoption journey with the audience on Friday night.

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And then on Saturday, I shared a talk on the lies I believed and the truth that set me free — and how this has radically changed my life. (Some of it was taken from the first three chapters of my book, Love-Centered Parenting.)

I hurried back home on Saturday to get to be with these two. I missed them so much!

Sunday, Silas had a baseball tournament and these two spent close to 11 hours at the ball field. They are so good at just going with the flow and adapting to wherever we take them!

Look at her all grown up with her sweatshirt and leggings!

Shared Oct 19, 2021 comment

Gretchen’s $93 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 5

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Gretchen’s $93 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 5

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Aldi

1 bag Frozen Corn – $0.75

1 bag Frozen Broccoli – $0.89

1 bag Frozen Chicken Breasts – $5.75

1 Whipped Topping – $0.79

1 Orange Juice – $1.99

1 gallon Milk – $2.60

2 Half & Half – $1.55 each

1 Plain Greek Yogurt – $3.19

1 canister Raisins – $2.89

1 dozen Eggs – $1.53

1 bag Frozen Strawberries – $2.95

1 bag Frozen Blueberries – $3.49

1 Pancake Syrup – $1.29

1 pkg Rice Cakes – $1.99

1 Vanilla Yogurt – $1.75

1 Maple Syrup – $6.09

1 MooTubes – $1.55

1 Steak Sauce – $0.99

1 Hot Sauce – $1.99

1 lb Butter – $2.66

1.64 lbs Peaches – $2.61

1 bag Kettle Chips – $1.24

1 box Chewy Granola Bars – $0.97

2 bags Chocolate Chips – $1.29 each

1 Cream of Mushroom Soup – $0.50

1 can Tuna – $0.65

1 lb Oven Roasted Turkey Breast – $4.35

1 Peanut Butter – $1.29

2.17 lbs Bananas – $0.80

1 bag Tortilla Chips – $1.25

1 Seedless Cucumber – $1.29

1 bag Mandarins – $3.69

1 pkg Strawberries – $2.49

2.34 lbs Red Grapes – $3.02

1 pkg Vine Tomatoes – $1.99

1 bag Oyster Crackers – $0.89

2 Avocados – $0.79 each

1 bag Spinach – $1.19

1 pkg Bagels – $1.49

1 pkg Romaine Lettuce – $2.79

1 pkg Broccoli Crowns – $2

Total: $86.89

Big Lots

I was excited to find a lot of markdowns at Big Lots, especially since they’d sent me a $5 off coupon! I’ll be sticking a lot of these in the freezer to use over the coming months.

4 boxes Cheez-Its – Marked down to $1.15 each

1 box Nilla Wafers – Marked down to $0.25

3 pkg Keebler Fudge Stripes Cookies – Marked down to $0.25 each

2 pkg Ritz Crisp & Thins – Marked down to $0.50 each

1 pkg Vanilla Creme Cookies – Marked down to $0.75

1 box Cheerios – Marked down to $1.45

1 box Blueberry Chex – Marked down to $1.25

1 box Rice Krispies – Marked down to $1.25

Used $5 off mailer coupon

Total after coupon: $6.30

Total for both stores: $93.19

Menu Plan for This Week

Breakfasts

Cereal, Eggs, Bagels, Yogurt, Spinach Smoothies, Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins, Fruit

Lunches

Peanut Butter & Jelly Rice Cake Sandwiches/Grapes x 2, Mac & Cheese/Carrots x 2, Apples & Peanut Butter/Crackers x 2, Chicken Nuggets (from freezer)/Cucumbers/Peaches, Leftovers

Dinners

Turkey Sandwiches, Chips, Fruit Salad

Spaghetti, Biscuits, Steamed Broccoli

Soft Tacos, Chips & Guacamole

Chicken & Cream of Mushroom Soup over Rice, Tossed Salad

Pancakes, Eggs, Fruit

Homemade Cheese Pizza, Breadsticks, Tossed Salad

Grilled Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Corn

Shared Oct 16, 2021 comment

Brigette’s $92 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 6

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Brigette’s $92 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 6

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This week has a lot of extra things including 3 memorial services that we are involved in as musicians and friends of the family (which includes funeral meals, leftover funeral food, etc.). I just bought some basics and plan on being flexible as I’m not sure what the week will hold. 

Aldi

1 16-oz pkg Deli Meat – $2.49

1 3-lb roll 73/27 Ground Beef, reduced – $6.27

1 3-b bag boneless Chicken Breasts – $5.25

1 32-oz carton Egg Whites – $2.95

2 16-oz bags Shredded Cheddar Cheese – $4.98

2 tubs Feta Cheese – $3.98

1 gallon 2% Milk – $1.47

2 64-oz cartons Whole Milk (because they were out of the gallon-size) – $2.18

2 64-oz cartons Almond Milk – $3.98

1 16-oz carton Heavy Whipping Cream – $1.55

1 32-oz carton Half and Half – $1.49

1/2 gallon Orange Juice – $1.99

7 single-serving cartons Greek Yogurt – $4.55

1 bag frozen Strawberries – $2.95

1 tub Organic Spring Mix – $3.49

2 cans Green Beans – $0.94

2 large bags Organic Kale – $5.98

1 3-ct pkg Multi-Colored Peppers – $2.99

1 Cauliflower – $1.99

4 bags frozen Broccoli Florets – $3.40

1 pkg Zucchini – $1.73

1 bunch Bananas – $1.23

1 box Rice Squares – $1.49

1 box Cocoa Rice – $1.45

1 bag Veggie Straws – $1.82

1 family-size box Frosty Flakes – $1.79

1 16-oz box Rotini – $0.79

1 bag Chopped Pecans – $3.99

1 bag Dried Cranberries – $1.29

1 bag Organic Quinoa – $2.49

1 pkg Butter Quarters – $1.99

1 Mustard – $0.69

1 pkg Crackers – $1.49

1 loaf Sandwich Bread – $0.55 (apparently…not pictured :))

Total: $87.66

10-lb bag Cameo Apples (seconds) from our favorite roadside stand – $5.00

Grocery Total for the Week: $92.66

Weekly Menu Plan

Breakfasts

Cereal, Fruit, Yogurt, Oatmeal

Lunches

Peanut Butter on Crackers, Apples, Peppers x 2

Deli Meat Sandwiches, Veggie Straws, Bananas x 2

Leftovers x 3

Dinners 

Grilled Chicken, Baked Potatoes, Tossed Salad, Broccoli

Meatloaf, Roasted Veggies, Mashed Potatoes

Rotini and Sauce with Cheese, Homemade French Bread, Tossed Salad

Pancakes, Eggs, Fruit

Memorial Service Meal (I’m bringing Kale and Quinoa Salad – recipe from a friend)

Lasagna, Homemade Bread, Gluten-Free Brownies, Grapes, Salad (meal a friend is bringing to us)

Leftovers