A Heartfelt Return To MOPS

This week I had the opportunity to visit to the same amazing Shawano MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) group that helped shape and guide my motherhood journey. This time I was able to talk with some incredible moms about alleviating stress and anxiety during the holidays.

This season, as the demands and pressures of family gatherings, Christmas shopping, and other festivities start building up, we can re-center ourselves, find peace, and actually enjoy each moment by remembering that Jesus is the true reason why we celebrate.

If you’re looking for ways to help protect against holiday burnout and keep calm in challenging situations, give these a try:

  • Accept Your Emotions Instead of Fighting Them
  • Don’t Put Your Needs on the Back Burner
  • Set Boundaries with What You Commit To
  • Recognize that Only Jesus was Perfect, You Don’t Have to Try To Be
  • Find Some Quiet Time to Take Short, Rejuvenating Breaks
  • Don’t Forget to Breathe and Pause to Connect with God
  • Forgive Yourself and Others for Any Missteps
  • Keep your Focus on Jesus

Wishing you an enlightening and joyful Christmas season!

Equipping St. James Parents with Mental Health Wisdom

CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS

Thank you to the brilliant Parent Teacher League at St. James Lutheran School for organizing this essential talk tonight! It was such a pleasure to meet with parents to discuss ways to support children’s mental health. We learned about the hidden signs of stress, anxiety, and depression to watch for in children and teens. We also reviewed simple, healthy stress management practices that parents can use at home with their children. It was an unforgettable opportunity to review research-based and faith-based strategies that support children’s social-emotional well-being as they navigate through stressful times!

Revitalization through St. James Teachers’ Professional Development

It was an honor to speak to the amazing and talented staff at St. James Lutheran School for their latest professional development session today. The teachers shared insightful reflections while learning about practical ways to improve mental health during this particularly challenging school year. We reviewed research-based and faith-based strategies to increase happiness and a sense of well-being. The St. James staff is a hard-working, dedicated, faithful, and fun group!