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How do you keep the spark alive in a marriage that's spanned over two decades? Join Nikki Smith as she shares her 25 Lessons for Marriage Success, drawing from 25 years of marriage and 32 years of partnership. In this episode, we unpack the critical lesson of not letting bad days accumulate and how to prevent minor frustrations from snowballing into bigger issues. Through personal stories, Nikki illustrates the concept of the "slow fade" and emphasizes the importance of starting each day with a fresh perspective.

Discover why the notion that your spouse should inherently know your needs is a myth that could be harming your relationship. Nikki dives deep into the necessity of clear, ongoing communication, explaining how changing life circumstances require constant dialogue. You'll also hear about the minor yet common annoyances, like half-finished projects and scattered contact lenses, and how understanding and managing these habits can lead to a more harmonious home life. Tune in for practical advice and heartfelt anecdotes aimed at helping you embrace both the joy and chaos of marital life, strengthening your relationship one lesson at a time.

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Can the words you speak really transform your marriage? After 25 years with my husband, Jed, I can confidently say yes. This week we will dive into 5 more lessons we have learned over our years being married, starting with the power of speaking life over your spouse.

As we navigate the challenges of modern life, electronic distractions often get in the way of meaningful connections. Discover practical strategies to reclaim your time and attention, ensuring your relationships flourish in a distraction-filled world. By setting clear boundaries and presenting a united front as parents, we can create a stable, supportive environment for our children, even when disagreements arise. Learn how mindful communication in front of your kids can lay the groundwork for a cohesive family unit.

Owning our responses in marriage is another cornerstone we'll explore. It's easy to blame our reactions on others, but taking full responsibility for how we handle conflicts is transformative. From heartfelt apologies to committing to personal growth, find out how these practices can enhance your relationship. I'll recap the essential lessons from the week, including speaking life over your spouse, covering each other's weaknesses, reducing distractions, being united as parents, and owning our responses. These insights aim to inspire accountability and proactive change, helping you foster a healthier, more supportive partnership. Tune in for candid conversations that will guide you in cultivating a strong, loving family.

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What if the key to a thriving marriage isn't just love, but intentionality? Join me, Nikki Smith, as I celebrate 25 years of marriage by sharing the invaluable lessons we've learned along the way. From meeting in junior high to raising children and preparing for an empty nest, our journey is filled with both trials and triumphs that have shaped our relationship. In this special episode of A Heart that Beats for Home, "25 Lessons Learned in 25 Years," I open up about the importance of setting intentional goals for your marriage, the delicate balance of truth and love in communication, and how to maintain intimacy by truly understanding and connecting with your partner.

You'll hear heartfelt personal stories and gain practical wisdom designed to encourage and guide couples in the early or hectic stages of their marriage. Discover why deliberate effort is crucial to achieving the relationship you desire and how filling gaps with grace, love, and truth can provide a stable foundation for your family. This episode is not just a reflection on our past but a roadmap for shaping the future of your own marriage, ensuring it remains strong and fulfilling for years to come.

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As we transition from the lazy days of summer to the structured routines of fall, how do we maintain balance and intentionality in our busy lives? Welcome back to A Heart that Beats for Home! As the freedom of summer wanes, I'll share my excitement for a more routine-driven lifestyle and discuss strategies for creating a harmonious and meaningful year ahead. With my youngest starting high school, the focus will be on the importance of intentionality in both parenting and marriage.

Imagine making the most of every small pocket of time in your day, increasing your efficiency without adding stress. After a summer of disciplined health habits under the guidance of a functional medicine doctor, I'll share how I’m adapting to a busier schedule. From stepping back from cherished activities to manage homeschooling commitments better, to maintaining daily non-negotiables like Bible reading and prayer, this episode is packed with practical tips. We'll also discuss managing schedule anxiety and practicing grace when things don't go as planned, setting realistic expectations, and enlisting support to reduce stress and lead a more balanced life.

Balancing multiple priorities requires a strategic approach, and this episode is all about sharing those strategies. From eating healthy with convenient options and ensuring quality family time, to maintaining a strong relationship with my husband through intentional dates, I’ll dive into how I’m juggling back-to-school schedules, and homeschooling. We'll talk about the importance of decluttering, setting boundaries, and prioritizing personal health. Join me as we embrace this busy season together, stay connected, and aim to finish strong.

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Have you ever felt like the end of hands-on parenting is as abrupt and jarring as losing a career? In this heartfelt episode of "A Heart that Beats for Home," my dear friend Kellie and I explore this transformative stage of life. Kellie shares an insightful analogy from her counselor that helps bridge understanding and empathy between moms and their spouses, easing the emotional and physical shifts that come with perimenopause and middle age. We also delve into the complexities of preparing for an empty nest and the importance of mental and physical preparation to thrive in this new chapter.

We then explore the profound journey of self-discovery and personal growth. We chat about how hobbies like gardening, art, and pottery have been instrumental in finding happiness independently of our children and spouse. Together, Kellie and I discuss the value of embracing our children's significant others as part of the family, the necessity of maintaining a strong marriage through regular communication, and how fostering these relationships leads to a deeper, more fulfilling life. We underscore the importance of celebrating the evolving beauty of family dynamics, especially as our children transition into their own adult lives.

Finally, we dive into the aspirations of transitioning to the empty nest phase with a focus on long-term family growth. How do we create lasting memories and stronger family bonds? By prioritizing shared experiences over material gifts and maintaining an adaptable mindset. We also touch on the crucial role of community support and the significance of moms taking care of themselves emotionally. This episode is brimming with encouragement and practical insights for anyone navigating middle age, emphasizing self-awareness, gratitude, and the joys of new chapters in family life.

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Managing a household of five kids while juggling the demands of a traveling spouse can be a beautiful chaos, and Kellie Yurosek knows firsthand just how intricate and rewarding it can be. Join us for an intimate conversation with Kellie as she shares her experiences of raising children aged 14 to 26, from the bustling days of multiple school pickups to the quieter moments when only two kids are left at home. Kellie's heartfelt anecdotes and insights provide a window into her family's vibrant dynamic and the joys and challenges of nurturing different personalities under one roof.

Balancing family and work responsibilities is a fine art, and Kellie's journey offers valuable lessons on meeting each child's unique needs. Learn how open communication, slowing down, and listening can transform the parenting experience, even amidst a hectic schedule. Kellie and I discuss the emotional and practical aspects of motherhood. Our conversation highlights the importance of mutual understanding, gratitude, and recognizing each other's strengths in maintaining a healthy family and marriage.

Through relatable stories and practical advice, we explore the necessity of core family rules and the impact of good manners and gratitude on child development. From teaching humility through competitive sports to navigating the evolving boundaries of parenting and friendship, Kellie’s experiences resonate on multiple levels. We also touch on the powerful moments of open communication, making every topic approachable, and ensuring children feel heard. Don't miss this enriching episode that celebrates the joy and chaos of cultivating strong, loving families.

Follow Kellie at: https://www.instagram.com/mamabeholdingittogether?igsh=azhjOWRrM3VtY3du

You can follow Ben and cheer on Georgia Dogs Football at:
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Sending your child off to college is an emotional rollercoaster, filled with moments of pride, anxiety, and bittersweet farewells. On this heartfelt episode of "A Heart that Beats for Home," I sit down with my daughter, Madison Smith, to reflect on her journey from freshman to senior year. We delve into the anxieties and guilt that many parents face during this transition, providing reassurance about giving ourselves grace and trusting in our children's ability to navigate their new environments. Through our candid conversation, we emphasize the importance of faith and resilience during these formative years.

Madison and I explore how our family has managed the shifts in dynamics when a child leaves for college. From regular calls to inventive virtual game nights, we share practical tips and personal stories to help maintain those indispensable connections despite the physical distance. Madison opens up about the unique challenges of keeping sibling relationships strong and how integrating new routines can sustain the familial bond.

The episode also celebrates the evolution of relationships during college, shining a light on the often-overlooked efforts dads make to stay connected. Through Madison's experiences, we discuss the emotional aspects of moving in and out each year and the personal growth that unfolds from freshman to senior year. As we approach the bittersweet senior year, we touch upon the mixed emotions of pride and nostalgia that accompany this milestone. Join us for an episode filled with love, support, and the shared wisdom of a family navigating the beautiful, challenging journey of college life.

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Ever wondered how to navigate the emotional whirlwind of sending a child off to college? Today, I sit down with my oldest daughter, Madison Smith, to share our deeply personal journey through her college years. We reflect on the poignant moments of her leaving home, the heartbreak of saying goodbye, and the bittersweet realization of new beginnings. Madison opens up about the challenges and triumphs she faced during her transition from high school to college life at Olivet Nazarene University, balancing roles as a student-athlete, resident assistant, and Bible study leader amidst the chaos of COVID-19.

This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the emotional rollercoaster that comes with a college send-off, the importance of keeping busy to manage overwhelming feelings, and the rapid adaptation required when stepping into a new environment. Madison shares candid insights into her early days on campus, from the struggles of isolation during a COVID diagnosis to balancing the demanding schedules of online academics and athletic training. We discuss how our family maintained a close connection despite the distance, highlighting the pivotal role of small gestures and consistent communication in preserving strong family bonds.

Listeners will find valuable advice on transitioning from high school to college athletics, the significance of engaging with college coaches early, and the necessity of overcoming shyness to become an effective team leader. Madison also emphasizes the importance of balancing academics, athletics, and spirituality, supported by a nurturing community and consistent spiritual practices. This episode is packed with practical tips for parents and students alike, covering everything from managing mental and emotional stress to embracing the growth and experiences that come with this significant life change. Join us for a candid and inspiring conversation that is sure to resonate with anyone preparing for or experiencing the college transition.

Follow Madison and ONU Tigerball Basketball at:
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