Intelligent Demand’s Post

I lay in my blue and white hammock Sunday night. My feet extended above me in my well-loved yellow flip flops. Oh, these last days of summer glory! The maples rustled cooling whispers of calm. The breeze softened the warm day's exit. I had sought this elusive repose all week, and here it was. As I looked up at the trees, I thought about the question asked in Sunday’s sermon, "What could you discern with God to stop doing in this next season?" The first thing that came to mind? Badgering myself. Ouch. I’m not happy to admit that I struggle with this, but a part of me often barks orders “to get my act together” and “what's wrong with you?” This is a season of shifting. Summer to fall. For many of us, the pace of the days are moving from slow to fast. I must now do the opposite. For me, work and academically regimented days transition to creative writing, which requires space. Every book I've opened this week has started with the same message, "slow down, you are not a machine." Relax. In the morning's sermon, the words, "Your life is a garden." Read more in the latest blog post (from an essay in my newsletter): "An Imprecise Guide to Relaxing with God and Not Badgering the Inner Badgers. " https://lnkd.in/g57pXisT

Me, every morning: "You can’t pour from an empty cup... but caffeine helps." ☕✨ Can we talk about how real the holiday madness is? Between the endless to-do lists, mom guilt for not doing enough, and that pesky inner critic whispering, “You should be handling this better,” it’s easy to feel like you’re running on fumes. Here’s the thing: You’re human. You’re allowed to feel overwhelmed. And let’s be honest—sometimes, you need 3 deep breaths, a good cry, and a latte before you can even think about decking the halls. But let me tell you what’s helped me: ✨ Taking a moment to breathe and reconnect with me. ✨ Quieting that inner critic with kindness, not judgment. ✨ Remembering that it’s okay to say no. (Boundaries are magic, mama.) The holidays shouldn’t be about perfection—they should be about peace. And that starts with YOU. So, let’s get vulnerable for a second: What’s your biggest struggle right now—mom guilt, imposter syndrome, or people-pleasing? Let’s chat in the comments. Because, trust me, you’re not alone in this. 👇 ✨ Here’s to surviving the holiday madness together—with caffeine and grace.✨

Follow these tips to keep Thanksgiving as stress free as possible this year! 🦃

Don't let stress ruin your Thanksgiving. Follow these tips to host a memorable and enjoyable holiday. 🦃 #Thanksgiving #ThanksgivingHosting #HolidayTips

Behind most social media posts featuring perfectly cooked meals, full homes, and familial harmony: there’s a B-roll that didn’t quite make it to the homepage. When we’re feeling down on ourselves, we might compare our worst days to others’ best days. When we’re feeling judgmental, we might compare our best days to others’ worst days. Neither of these comparisons are truthful. If your holiday is just another day of ordinary trials and blessings, If you’re spending this holiday on your own, or someone’s missing, If you’re preoccupied by worry or grief, Or your meal is delivered or reheated, Or if you wish you could afford the holiday you want to have: All of these are still holy days. All of your days still have meaning because, in all of these days, we have you.

Don't let stress ruin your Thanksgiving. Follow these tips to host a memorable and enjoyable holiday. 🦃 #Thanksgiving #ThanksgivingHosting #HolidayTips

Make Thanksgiving Stress Free! Discover how to make this Thanksgiving your most relaxed and enjoyable yet! Check out our latest blog post for simple strategies to keep stress at bay and savor the holiday with your loved ones. https://lnkd.in/eweaj8Vw

“7 Simple Ideas to Bring Peace and Joy to Your Season” Feeling overwhelmed by the holiday rush? Discover 7 practical ways to infuse your season with calm, gratitude, and lasting joy, no matter the chaos around you.

There's something about the rain that can either dampen our spirits or awaken our senses. For many of us, rain means rushing to work with an umbrella in hand, avoiding puddles, and longing for the sun. But what if we shifted our perspective? As there is famous saying of Bob Marley, “You say you love rain, but you use an umbrella to walk under it. You say you love sun, but you seek shelter when it is shining. You say you love wind, but when it comes you close your windows. So that's why I'm scared when you say you love me.” Here is the answer to that: Yes, I use an umbrella because rain can make me sick. Yes, I seek shelter because UV rays can drain my energy. Yes, I close my windows because wind can disrupt my room's decorum. But, there's more to my story that you might not see: You don't see when I enjoy every single drop of rain and walk with a smile on my face. You don't see when I savor the sun with an ice cream in my hand. You don't see when I relish the soft breeze and read my favorite book. Life is a blend of practicality and joy. While we navigate the challenges that come with the changing weather, let's not forget to cherish the simple pleasures they bring. Each raindrop, ray of sunlight, and gentle breeze offers us a moment to pause, reflect, and find happiness in the present. So, let's embrace the elements with open arms and a heart full of gratitude. Whether it's rain, sun, or wind, there's always a reason to smile and enjoy the journey. How do you find joy in the elements? Share your moments of sunshine and rain below! #EmbraceTheElements #JoyInTheJourney #RainDrops #SunshineMoments #BreezyDays

🦃✨ This Thanksgiving, take a moment to unwind and embrace relaxation with your favorite essential oil. Whether it’s grounding, calming, or uplifting, we want to know—what’s your go-to oil for the ultimate stress-free holiday? 🍂💆♀️ Drop your answer below and share how it helps you stay centered during the busy season! 💬👇 👉 Need more relaxation ideas? Visit our site for helpful tips! WHAT SAY YOU? 💬 https://lnkd.in/gsyiEu77