Best of The Real Kathy Lee: You’ve Got This! When Motherhood is Hard

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

You've Got This! When Motherhood is Hard with The Real Kathy LeeThis week we are running a few “Best of” episodes you might have missed!  This is the #1 episode for my podcast!  If you have listened to my podcast for very long, you have heard me say… You’ve Got This. You might have wondered what in the world I actually mean by that statement. Today’s podcast explains my thoughts as I share such an empowering phrase.

Motherhood is hard. We become parents through pregnancy or adoption, both are hard.  Before the baby arrives we are often exhausted physically and emotionally. Next, we stay up all night and are expected to be happy and function the next day. What? How? By digging deep, by realizing that you are making a difference for eternity. It doesn’t mean that it isn’t challenging and very lonely at times.

I suggest the following for moms who struggle believing that they can pull off this thing called motherhood:

  1. Don’t be scared to ask for help – Reach out to a close friend and share your feelings.
  2. Say YES to taking time for yourself. You won’t regret it. You and your family will be happier for it.
  3. Say NO often. Motherhood can overwhelm us, especially when we take on too many things outside the home during the early years.
  4. It is okay to have your own tantrum from time to time. I suggest going in the closet for a good cry or toddler style fit.
  5. Time flies. Try and lean in to these years, savor them. It sounds ridiculous, but you will miss the middle of the night feedings and early morning snuggles on the sofa.

 

YOU really, really do HAVE this!!

Comment on my post on FB at The Real Kathy Lee or The Homegrown Preschooler for a chance to win this journal!!!


Find a way to #sayyes today.

Don’t forget to subscribe to my podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!!

Thank you to The Homegrown Preschooler for sponsoring this Podcast! Check out the blog post Kathy mentioned, Farmhouse Schoolhouse, to read more about A Year of Playing Skillfully.

Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at

The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, THEREALKATHYLEE.

 


Special Thanks to Our Network Sponsor – Christian Standard Bible

The Christian Standard Bible captures the Bible’s original meaning without compromising clarity. An optimal blend of accuracy and readability, this translation helps readers make a deeper connection with God’s Word and inspires lifelong discipleship. The CSB is for everyone—for readers young and old, new and seasoned. It’s a Bible pastors can preach from and a Bible you can share with your neighbor hearing God’s Word for the very first time.

Find out more here!


Living on the Offense

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

As the holidays approach, Kathy Lee gives tips on how to stay on the offense as a parent.The past few months have been exhausting… physically and emotionally. Although lots of great things have been happening, they have taken their toll. I have found myself moving from living on the Offense to living on the Defense. Have you ever been there?

I don’t think any of us make a conscience decision to live on the defense, but it happens slowly. We get off our routine. We stop taking care of ourselves because everyone else’s needs are more important. We decide that we can do “that” tomorrow. Some other reasons we move to the defense are:

  1. We make small concessions with our life that slowly eat away at who we are.
  2. We stop planning and start reacting.
  3. We believe (often because we are often told by others) that our dreams are unattainable and frivolous.
  4. An event (vacation, moving, etc.) takes us off our game.
  5. We make excuses for why the timing is not right for us right now.
  6. We fail to say yes to opportunities when they arise, believing we can do whatever it is later.
  7. We say YES to everything, even stuff that will take us down emotionally and physically.
  8. We believe we always have tomorrow.

As the holidays approach, I suggest you do the following to stay on the offense as a parent:

 

  1. Keep up with your routine. Bedtimes, exercise routine, and eating plans all matter.
  2. Set Priorities for you and your family. Decide what is important for this year. Christmas Cards might need to go on the naughty list.
  3. Don’t be afraid to say no. Yep, the queen of YES is telling you it is okay to say no. You cannot do it all. I repeat. YOU CANNOT do it all.

 

Find a way to #sayyes today.
 


Special Thanks to our Network Sponsor!


We’d like to thank our Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network sponsor Sony and their new movie, The Star, the Story of the First Christmas – Coming in Theaters November 17th!

Visit TheStarMovie.com to learn more.


You’ve Got This! When Motherhood is Hard

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

You've Got This! When Motherhood is Hard with The Real Kathy Lee If you have listened to my podcast for very long, you have heard me say… You’ve Got This. You might have wondered what in the world I actually mean by that statement. Today’s podcast explains my thoughts as I share such an empowering phrase.

Motherhood is hard. We become parents through pregnancy or adoption, both are hard.  Before the baby arrives we are often exhausted physically and emotionally. Next, we stay up all night and are expected to be happy and function the next day. What? How? By digging deep, by realizing that you are making a difference for eternity. It doesn’t mean that it isn’t challenging and very lonely at times.

I suggest the following for moms who struggle believing that they can pull off this thing called motherhood:

  1. Don’t be scared to ask for help – Reach out to a close friend and share your feelings.
  2. Say YES to taking time for yourself. You won’t regret it. You and your family will be happier for it.
  3. Say NO often. Motherhood can overwhelm us, especially when we take on too many things outside the home during the early years.
  4. It is okay to have your own tantrum from time to time. I suggest going in the closet for a good cry or toddler style fit.
  5. Time flies. Try and lean in to these years, savor them. It sounds ridiculous, but you will miss the middle of the night feedings and early morning snuggles on the sofa.

 

YOU really, really do HAVE this!!

Comment on my post on FB at The Real Kathy Lee or The Homegrown Preschooler for a chance to win this journal!!!


Find a way to #sayyes today.

Don’t forget to subscribe to my podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!!

Thank you to The Homegrown Preschooler for sponsoring this Podcast! Check out the blog post Kathy mentioned, Farmhouse Schoolhouse, to read more about A Year of Playing Skillfully.

Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at

The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, THEREALKATHYLEE.

 

Bringing out the Master Chef in Your Child – with Samantha Barnes of Raddish

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Bringing out the Master Chef in Your Child - Cooking with Kids - The Real Kathy Lee with Raddish Kids

I remember walking by this super cute booth at a homeschool conference and wondering what in the world they were selling. At first glance I noticed measuring cups, colorful picture cards and other cooking utensils. I decided to stop and take a closer look and quickly began chatting with the exhibitor at the booth. The more she talked, the more I loved what was happening in that booth.

Well, the creator of that booth and that product is on the show today. Samantha Barnes is the owner and creator of Raddish, a cooking program for children of all ages. I was so excited to have Samantha on and I asked her several questions regarding her business and her life as a former middle school teacher and cooking pro.

The Real Kathy Lee and Samantha Barnes of Raddish Kids

After Samantha told me about her kids and their new homeschooling adventure, I wanted to know why and how she started Raddish. Secondly, I wanted to know why she thought cooking was an important part of a child’s education. Next, I asked Samantha how she thought Raddish prepared future adults to have confidence in the kitchen and lastly, I wanted to know what advice Samantha had for parents who might be nervous to let their children near a stove or cooking utensils. Samantha had so many great ideas and suggestions.

Our family has used Raddish Kids and we have loved it. I shared with Samantha how my daughter Sarah would squeal when the box arrived in our mailbox each month. I especially loved that all of us could enjoy this program, from the youngest to the oldest.

Take the time to say YES in the kitchen. Baby steps go a long way and your kids (and their spouses) will thank you one day. Get cooking!!!
I know it will help you connect with your kids this week!!

In addition to having Samantha on as a guest, Raddish Kids is sponsoring our podcast this week. You can find out more about this amazing company that we have used at our house and LOVED at  raddishkids.com/homeschool. Thanks, Samantha!!

Find a way to #sayyes today.

Don’t forget to subscribe to my podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!!

 


Special Thanks to our Network Sponsor!

We’d like to thank our Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network sponsor Raddish – a cooking club and curriculum, specially designed FOR KIDS by chefs and educators! Raddish is perfect for homeschooling families! Teach thematic cooking lessons that incorporate math, science, nutrition, geography, and culture. With Raddish, the kitchen is the tastiest place to learn! Use coupon code PODCAST at checkout for $15 off a 6 or 12 month membership. Visit RaddishKids.com/Homeschool to learn more and to download a free lesson.
Check out this info pack: Raddish One Page

 

How to Intentionally Connect with Your Children with Graeme Pitman

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

How to Intentionally Connect with Your Children - Image provided by Pitman PhotographyOOOOOHHHH, I love the show this week. Over the past year, I have had the pleasure of getting to know Graeme Pitman, creative director of The Circe Institute. As I have watched his social media accounts, I have giggled and sat in amazement at the connecting moments he has had with his three young children. I thought it would be fun to have Graeme on the show and talk about his family and the way they make the everyday moments matter.

In this episode, Graeme Pitman shares that time does matter in parenting and that quality time requires quantity time. When I watched the video of Graeme and his son Rowan talking about Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak, I was thrilled to witness a beautiful conversation where a child was invited to share his honest thoughts and interpretation of the story. I asked Graeme to tell us why he made this inspiring video.

One of my favorite posts on Graeme’s Instagram account was that of his daughter belly laughing. I enjoyed imagining the conversation that occurred in their home to cause such a grand laugh. Even though his life looks picturesque on social media, Graeme assures me that they are not a fairy tale family. He insists they are just a mom and dad trying to relax and enjoy the journey.

Visit Graeme’s site to learn more about his gifts as a photographer and creative director.

How to Intentionally Connect with Your Children with Graeme Pitman - Image provided by Pitman Photography

 

I hope you make time to connect with your kids today!!

You’ve got this!

**Above Photography provided by Graeme Pitman – Pitman Photography.


Find a way to #sayyes today.

Don’t forget to subscribe to my podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!!

Thank you to The Homegrown Preschooler for sponsoring this Podcast! Check out the blog post Kathy mentioned, Farmhouse Schoolhouse, to read more about A Year of Playing Skillfully.

Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at

The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, THEREALKATHYLEE.

 

Thoughts for Dads from One Daddy’s Little Girl

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Thoughts for Dad from One Daddy's Little Girl - with the Real Kathy LeeI hope all of the dads listening today had a great Father’s Day! In honor of my dad I thought I would share some thoughts on Fatherhood from a “daddy’s little girl” and mom’s perspective.

I think the most important things for dads to remember is:

  1. Be present. – There is a famous saying, the days are long but the years are short. I believe this is so true!! Don’t wish away the days.
  2. Be intentional. – Being intentional doesn’t mean you have to spend thousands of dollars on a family trip to Europe. It does mean putting your phone away to have conversations, play games, attend events, and show up (emotionally and physically) for your family.
  3. Be consistent. – Kids thrive on routine. Help your family keep their routine by making family time a priority and being consistent as much as possible!
  4. Be dependable. –  Can’t say this enough. Kids need to know their parents will be there, period.
  5. Be confident. I believe most kids are born risk takers until the adults convince them that fear should be present. Try and live fearlessly in front of your kids. Confidence is contagious.

Make it Count!

I also think it is very important for dads to remember that their children don’t need you to be the world’s greatest problem solver. They mainly need you to listen to them, to know them, to love them and to honor how they feel. They need to know they are worthy of love and belonging.

In this episode I talk about the importance to facing your own childhood trauma. Research shows that we carry our trauma into our parenting. I saw a therapist to deal with my own childhood trauma and definitely believe that it has been a benefit to my children.

Dad’s, you are superheroes. Keep being strong and tender, your boys and your girls need that from you! Thank you for all you are doing for the next generation.

 

Find a way to #sayyes today.

Don’t forget to subscribe to my podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!!

Thank you to The Homegrown Preschooler for sponsoring this Podcast! Check out the blog post Kathy mentioned, Farmhouse Schoolhouse, to read more about A Year of Playing Skillfully.

Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at

The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, THEREALKATHYLEE.

The Real Kathy Lee – Momfessions

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

real kathy leeLet’s Meet The Real Kathy Lee Momfessions – with Felice Gerwitz and Kathy H. Lee

Podcast 191

Meet the Real Kathy Lee “momfessions, and discuss her awesome podcast, when she joins Felice Gerwitz to discuss homeschool successes, do-overs and what she wish she had known when she started homeschooling! Kathy was involved in public education and was often in front of other educators discussing how to engage early learners. However she always knew she wanted to homeschool … and she did, all ten of her children. Learn more about Kathy, what she shares on her own podcast [Momfessions here] and how to use the great advice she shares.


Thanks to our Sponsor – Sony PicturesSmurfs: The Lost Village and Download smurfs_discussion_guide

smurfs the lost village


Don’t forget to follow us on iTunes, Google Play, on this website, or download to your computer. Do you have a smart phone? Either an apple or an adroid. Use any podcast app and search for “Vintage Homeschool Moms,” or the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network. There you will find this show as well as many other shows on this network, such as, “Momfessions with The Real Kathy Lee” … and please leave us a comment – below and on iTunes, etc. 5-stars please!!


About the “Real” Kathy Lee “momfessions”- Kathy is a mom of ten children, biological and adopted. She is determined and honest, in that she made mistakes…many! She hosts a podcast on this network, “Momfessions ~ with The Real Kathy Lee.” She interviews guests and does solo podcasts weekly. Visit Kathy on her website KathyHLee.com- here.


Show Notes: Meet The Real Kathy Lee Momfessions:

We discussed:

The need to savor every day. We discussed how quickly it (homeschooling) goes by! Also, that every single day isn’t critical.

Homeschool Success: According to Kathy it was the ability to allow her children to play and discover learning during play. In addition, she allowed her children to study according to their areas of interest.

I asked if she could do something over again, what would that be? Homeschool Do Over: Trust my instincts – intuition said it wasn’t best for a specific child and it wasn’

Kathy Lee’s curriculum: The Homesgrown PreSchooler 

When pre-schoolers kids say they want to do school, what this generally means:

  • I want to be big – let the children role playing – setting up pretend school – as a play station…
  • Rotate kids – older child can work with the younger, doing a sensory activity or art project
  • Do together – let the little ones sit there doing something tactile – while you do the read aloud activity with the older children.

Find many more ideas and tips in Kathy’s book as well as on her website. The links are above.