Blessings and Motherhood (Delise Germond and Ginny Tran)

Is there anything to be hopeful about in the next generation of Christians? In this episode, Delise and Ginny sit down with Kristel Acevedo to talk about teen ministry and discipleship. Kristel is the Spiritual Formation Director at Transformation Church in South Carolina and co-author of the book 3 Big Questions That Shape Your Future. Her radiant passion for teen ministry and contagious hope for the future of the next generation of Christians shine through in this conversation as she offers insights and encouragement to all parents, not just those with teenage children in the home! Of course, one of the biggest challenges faced by teenagers is figuring out who they are. With so many voices in our culture telling teens who they should be, Kristel offers some advice for parents on how to encourage teenage children to develop into who God made them to be as well as how to trust God when it feels like they are slipping away from that identity. Kristel also shares a bit of her personal journey, explaining why she really struggled to accept her identity in Christ and bringing to light why it is so important that Christians embrace their ethnic and cultural heritages as part of their identities.

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/talking-to-teens-with-kristel-acevedo

Happy August! In this delightful conversation, hosts Delise and Ginny chat with Robin Barnes, a homeschool mom of three (including twins!). Having experience raising children with a ten-year age gap, Robin shares all about her motherhood journey, considering the lessons she would go back and tell her younger self, the importance of giving children encouragement, and ways busy moms can find time alone in the Scriptures. Plus, Robin reflects on her homeschooling journey. With one of her children having trouble learning to read, she speaks to dealing with situations where one child struggles in a subject that another child excels in. Lastly, Robin celebrates the best part of her motherhood journey—embracing the flexibility and freedom that come with homeschooling, allowing her more time with her children to build lifelong relationships!

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/robin-barnes

Did you know Classical Conversations® Challenge students can earn college credit for the coursework they already complete? To learn more, click here.

Are you equipping your kids to think clearly in a world filled with misinformation? Delise sits down with Kathy Gibbens, host of the Filter It Through a Brain Cell podcast. They dive into the importance of teaching children critical thinking and logical reasoning in today's world, discussing how to cultivate compassionate and empathetic thinkers. Plus, Kathy shares insights on AI and how it might impact the next generation's ability to discern truth.

https://www.filteritthroughabraincell.com/

Discover the clarity you need to make the best decision for your family’s educational needs at one of our Information Meetings. Connect with experienced CC parents, learn about our unique classical, Christian programs, and find out if attending an Open House is your next step.
 
Take control of your homeschooling journey by attending an Information Meeting. Find an Info Meeting near you at https://classicalconversations.com/events/ 

Do you know those moms, perhaps in your neighborhood growing up or where you live now, whose houses were the gathering places for all the local kids? Crystal Storey is one of those moms, and she certainly has great stories to tell! In this conversation, Crystal tells the incredible story of God calling her to become a “neighborhood mom,” stories of being a light to children in her area, and the miraculous story of God healing her daughter from life-threatening bacterial meningitis—a story that speaks to the power of lots and lots of prayer. In addition, Crystal gets practical, offering tips for feeding a full house of hungry teenagers and for creating boundaries to make the home a welcoming but safe space. Plus, she shares a key piece of advice to aspiring neighborhood moms—to be real and authentic with kids.

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/being-a-prayer-warrior-mom-with-crystal-storey

"Is it possible to over-emphasize Jesus to your kids?" Author Lisa Whittle tackles this provocative question and more in a candid conversation about faith-filled parenting. From launching adult children to teaching truth in love, Lisa shares hard-won wisdom from her motherhood journey while offering a sneak peek at her upcoming "Body and Soul" project that challenges cultural messages about our bodies through a biblical lens.

https://www.lisawhittle.com/

Do you struggle to find time for community? You’re not alone. After a discussion with listeners on social media about our first episode, Pursuing Community in Every Season, we discovered that by far the largest limiting factor for moms building relationships in community is not having the time to do so. In this conversation, Delise and Ginny talk about the reasons why moms can have difficulty finding spare time, the role guilt can play in regard to time management, and practical examples of how to seek out community in the midst of a crazy schedule.

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/finding-time-for-community

Curious about how to navigate tough conversations with your kids? Join hosts Delise and Ginny as they chat with Lindsey Mendenwalt from Mama Bear Apologetics. Discover how to tackle challenging topics with your children through practical tips and insights on apologetics.

At Classical Conversations®, we believe that parents can provide quality education for their children. Grow as the Lead Learner in your homeschool at classicalconversations.com/cohort.

In this episode, Delise and Ginny discuss coping with the winter blues, offering practical tips like focusing on your parenting “why,” creating a peaceful home, and practicing gratitude.

CC parents, tutors, and Directors—sign up for the Classical Learning Cohort to level up your skills in guiding and assessing your student’s learning at home and in community! Register today at ClassicalConversations.com/cohort.

In this second episode of Blessings and Motherhood, Delise and Ginny speak with Olivia Walsh about how and why she encourages her children to explore their world. This conversation is packed with Scriptural encouragement from the stories of King Lemuel and Samson, an explanation of what it means to be a “lighthouse mom” and not a “helicopter mom,” and practical tips for letting your children be whom God called them to be and to explore on their own, even if that’s just in the family backyard.

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/encouraging-exploration-with-olivia-walsh

Ever wanted to sit at the feet of a mom with over twenty years of parenting under her belt? This episode is for you! In this third episode of Blessings and Motherhood, Delise and Ginny interview Tara Furman, the founder of Knowing God Ministries. The conversation centers around the pursuit of God in all seasons of motherhood. Among other topics, Tara discusses her passion for helping women build personal relationships with God, what it looks like practically to prioritize faith, the purpose of prayer, and how to make the family home the best place in the world.

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/tara-furman-part-1

Should Christians celebrate Halloween? Is Halloween bad for Christians? This is a conversation moms have with their families and friends every year. So today, Ginny Tran and Delise Germond are using the 15 Tools of Classical Learning to discuss their views on this area of Christian liberty.

Please note that the thoughts expressed here are not intended to represent Classical Conversations as a company, but rather their personal views and approaches at this time.

Thanks for joining in the conversation as we navigate the beautiful challenges of parenting, looking to Jesus each step of the way.

Curious about homeschooling? Want to see Classical Conversations in action? Visit an Open House, where you’ll interact with parents, students, Tutors, and Directors in a local setting and discover the joy of our community-based approach.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience homeschooling in action! Find an Open House near you at https://classicalconversations.com/events/ 

We’re going back to school! Delise and Ginny dive into the back-to-school season, discussing how moms can embrace the changing seasons of life. They explore the challenges and joys of new beginnings, from transitioning between school stages to managing unexpected life changes, all while keeping faith at the center.

New to the Copper Lodge Library this year is English Epic Poetry, a collection with Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and selections from Canterbury Tales and Paradise Lost.

Build a family culture by reading these stories together and have meaningful conversations about wisdom and virtue. Even in the less overtly religious poems of Sir Gawain and Canterbury Tales, readers find Christian themes like courage, forgiveness, and right use of power.

Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/

Happy New Year! In our first episode of 2023, join Delise and Ginny as they sit down with Leigh Bortins, the founder of Classical Conversations®. As a mother of four adult boys and a grandmother of three littles, Leigh has years of experience in building strong and intentional family relationships. Be inspired by Leigh's insights on parenting little ones versus adult children and her advice on fostering a love of learning in children at an early age. Of course, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows—Leigh also describes how she must constantly remind herself of who she is in Christ during difficult times of motherhood. This conversation kicks off a new year of Blessings and Motherhood with a great start, and it's one to put at the top of your queue!

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/learning-together-with-leigh-bortins

Looking for ways to nurture your child's creativity without stifling their natural genius? Join host Delise as she interviews Courtney Sanford, founder of The Delightful Art Co. and author of "Marvelous to Behold." A former graphic designer turned homeschool mom, Courtney shares her journey of integrating art education with classical learning, discusses creative approaches to teaching art to different types of learners, and offers practical advice for parents wanting to cultivate creativity in their children.

https://www.delightfulartco.com/

Mark your calendar for the 2025 National Commencement, May 16-17, 2025, in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! This is a time for Classical Conversations families from around the nation to celebrate the hard work with fellow families on the homeschooling journey.

Register at https://classicalconversationsfoundation.org/

How do you find gratitude when you're struggling? Ginny and Delise explore finding thankfulness in difficult seasons. Through meaningful Scripture passages from Nahum to James, they share personal experiences about waiting on God's timing, learning to be quick to listen but slow to speak, and the importance of community during challenging times. A perfect listen for anyone needing a reminder that the Lord remains good, even when circumstances feel anything but.

Mark your calendar for the 2025 National Commencement, May 16-17, 2025, in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! This is a time for Classical Conversations families from around the nation to celebrate the hard work with fellow families on the homeschooling journey.

Register at https://classicalconversationsfoundation.org/

In this episode of "Blessings and Motherhood," Sarah, a Jewish mom, shares her journey of integrating Jewish traditions with her Christian faith in parenting. She discusses the unique challenges and joys of Jewish motherhood, emphasizing the importance of embracing both sorrows and celebrations. Join us for a heartfelt conversation on faith, tradition, and the nuanced experiences of being a Jewish mother today.

Resources:

The Copper Lodge Library series from Classical Conversations® preserves history's best stories for future generations. View the library on ClassicalConversationsBooks.com.

Join Delise, Ginny, and Hollywood actress, writer, and podcaster Sam Sorbo on this episode of Blessings and Motherhood! Discover the backstory of Sam’s upcoming historical comedy, Miracle in East Texas, which tells the heartwarming true story about the biggest oil strike in the history of the United States, right at the dawn of the Great Depression. In this wide-ranging conversation, Sam shares about a homeschool curriculum she wrote to accompany the film, encouraging parents to learn from the story and not just be entertained. This curriculum (a free download, link in the show notes!) includes thought-provoking questions that prompt discussions and help families discover the period's history and economics. Moviemaking aside, as a homeschool mom with Classical Conversations®, Sam explores in this episode the importance of what she calls “world-schooling”—enriching her children’s education by immersing them in a real location to discover its history, geography, and culture. She also shares valuable advice for new moms, what types of movies children ought to watch, why she’s changed her perspective on education since becoming a homeschool mom, how she’s finding moments of rest amidst her family’s busy lifestyle, how parents can foster open communication with their children, and her enduring fascination with forgiveness, even before she became a believer!

Get tickets for your family to see Miracle in East Texas, produced by and starring Kevin and Sam Sorbo, exclusively in theaters October 29–30, at SorboStudios.com!

Show notes: BlessingsandMotherhood.com/Sam-Sorbo

It’s cause for celebration! In this last episode of the year, Delise and Ginny chat with Laura Kooistra, a Classical Conversations® employee and homeschool mom of ten children, all about celebration. And although this episode airs during the Christmas season, the three discuss more than just holiday festivities! In true classical spirit, Laura begins the conversation with her definition of “celebration,” considering whether it’s more than just an expression of thankfulness and that, at its core, celebration is really about the goodness of God. Laura shares why it’s important to celebrate, God’s direction for how and what we ought to celebrate presented in Scripture, how to find reasons for celebration amidst difficult seasons, how to make a habit of celebrating with your community, how to create celebrations in your home that become family-favorite traditions, and how to navigate your children’s different preferences for holiday celebrations. Plus, Laura talks about what celebrations look like in her own family, from celebrating holidays and birthdays to achievements and even ordinary moments. Finally, you’ll go into the new year equipped with the answer to the question: “What is wassail?”

Show notes: BlessingsandMotherhood.com/the-art-of-celebrating-well

Save up to 30% off a stay at a Great Wolf Lodge location near you with your whole family this holiday season! If you are a CC member, access your code here. 

Join Delise and Ginny as they share their current favorite activities and moments of joy. From embracing outdoor adventures to exploring the Psalms through devotional practices, they discuss various ways of learning and bonding as a family. Tune in for an uplifting discussion on finding joy in the simple moments of motherhood.

Whether planning for an in-person trip or visiting from the comfort of your home, learn more about Classical Conversations at the Museum of the Bible by going to . http://museumofthebible.org/classical-conversations-at-museum-of-the-bible.

Looking for insights on emotional intelligence and parenting? Join Delise for a fascinating conversation with Noble Gibbons, the "EQ Gangster"! From West Point graduate to emotional intelligence coach, Noble shares his personal journey from being emotionally unaware to helping others develop emotional literacy. Learn practical tools like the "Gorilla APE" method and discover how to create an emotionally safe environment for your children - all while applying classical education principles to emotional growth.

https://www.eqgangster.com/

Mark your calendar for the 2025 National Commencement, May 16-17, 2025, in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! This is a time for Classical Conversations families from around the nation to celebrate the hard work with fellow families on the homeschooling journey.

Register at https://classicalconversationsfoundation.org/

Should you tell your children that Santa Clause is real? In today's episode Ginny Tran and Delise Germond discuss their l family approaches to Christmas and Santa Claus. 

In part two of this conversation, Delise and Ginny sit down (literally, our first-ever in-person episode!) with the incredible Vanessa Royer to talk about adoption, music, homeschooling, and so much more. You’ll discover insights into all things adoption, from the meaning behind the word “adoption” and examples in Scripture to navigating the complicated legal process and a new, popular method called embryonic adoption. Vanessa also shares about her own wild adoption story, her biological children’s relationships with her adoptive children, her advice for parents pursuing or praying about adoption, how inviting new members into your family can completely expand your worldview and empathy, ways to embrace and encourage the cultural heritage of your adoptive children, and why homeschool Christian families are the best families equipped to pursue adoption. Also, passionate about and exceptionally talented in music, Vanessa discusses the role music plays in her life and family, her secrets to making the home a more musical place, and why moms should spend more time pursuing their own passions, whether in art or in business. It’s a longer-than-usual episode (check out the in-person interview on our YouTube channel!), but the conversation is rich, fun, and bursting with takeaways for any mom. We hope you enjoy!

Show notes: BlessingsandMotherhood.com/Vanessa-Royer-part-2

You’re invited to our 2024 National Events Weekend in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! Head over to ClassicalConversationsFoundation.org to learn more.

When a routine grocery store trip turned into a mother's worst nightmare, it launched a mission to protect children from trafficking. Join us as Amanda Florczykowski shares her harrowing close call with child traffickers and how it inspired her to found Able Moms International and Vigilant Families. Now pursuing a master's in neuroscience and trauma, Amanda offers practical safety tips for parents while emphasizing the power of faith-based community in preventing exploitation.

https://www.amandaflorczykowski.com/

Celebrating together! Has your student or community done something noteworthy? We are collecting these stories, accomplishments, and events to celebrate and share the excitement of homeschooling. Please provide as much information as possible to completely tell the story. Share your story at http://www.classicalconversations.com/celebrate-together.

With Thanksgiving and Christmas nearly upon us, Delise and Ginny have seized this opportunity to explore the idea of traditions, approaching the topic from a biblical worldview and sharing some of their family-favorite traditions. Don’t miss out on this week’s heartwarming episode and discover how to be more intentional in your own family’s traditions!

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/lets-talk-about-traditions

In this debut episode of Blessings and Motherhood, hosts Delise and Ginny talk about the biblical importance of community. They discuss the role of community in their own lives and how to be intentional (and set realistic expectations) about pursuing and building a trusted group of friends to do life alongside. Ginny also dives into how she and her husband first got started homeschooling and describes how, when her family moved to a new area, their Classical Conversations local community rallied together to offer help and support even before Ginny’s family had joined!

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/pursuing-community-in-every-season

Should Christians celebrate Halloween? Is Halloween bad for Christians? This is a conversation moms have with their families and friends every year. So today, Ginny Tran and Delise Germond are using the 15 Tools of Classical Learning to discuss their views on this area of Christian liberty.

Please note that the thoughts expressed here are not intended to represent Classical Conversations as a company, but rather their personal views and approaches at this time.

Thanks for joining in the conversation as we navigate the beautiful challenges of parenting, looking to Jesus each step of the way.

Get your tissues and confetti ready for this heartfelt episode that celebrates the highs and lows of parenting! Delise and Ginny chat with Jill Philbrick, a seasoned homeschooling mom with over 15 years of experience. Jill shares her inspiring journey, the challenges she faced, and how her faith and community helped her persevere.

New to the Copper Lodge Library this year is English Epic Poetry, a collection with Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and selections from Canterbury Tales and Paradise Lost.

Build a family culture by reading these stories together and have meaningful conversations about wisdom and virtue. Even in the less overtly religious poems of Sir Gawain and Canterbury Tales, readers find Christian themes like courage, forgiveness, and right use of power.

Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/.

Welcome back to another episode! This month, Delise and Ginny chat with Melissa Dimanche, a musician and worship leader, pastor’s wife, and mother of two beautiful children. During their conversation, Melissa talks about the importance of embracing one another in community just for who we are—both the neat and the messy—and doing life together. With Haitian-American ancestry, Melissa explores what it means to welcome diversity in both community and home, describing how she and her husband bring their ethnic backgrounds into their family and pointing out the dangers when parents “ignore” their children’s cultural heritage. Finally, Melissa speaks to topics she’s well equipped to discuss—how to choose joy amid suffering and the lessons learned from seasons of loss. All in all, this episode is another wide-ranging, thought-provoking, and, at times, emotional conversation we hope you enjoy as much as we do!

Show notes: BlessingsandMotherhood.com/melissa-dimanche

Classical Conversations® members—get started with the beta release of The Math Map: Naturals, an exclusive look into our upcoming math curriculum from Classical Conversations! To access these materials, log in to your CC Connected account, navigate to the Learning Center, and search for “The Math Map.”

How should a Christian view food? Delise sits down with Brandice from Grace Filled Plate to discuss the powerful connection between faith and our relationship with food. Brandice shares her personal journey from struggling with disordered eating to finding true food freedom through her faith in God. Whether you’re a mom overwhelmed by meal prep or someone looking to deepen your spiritual life through daily habits, this conversation offers valuable insights and encouragement.

https://gracefilledplate.com/

The Secret Garden is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their reading and thinking skills. Wide margins encourage note taking and having “conversations” with the book and its author. 

Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at CopperLodgeLibrary.com.

In this episode of “Blessings and Motherhood,” Delise and Ginny continue their talk with Sarah, focusing on faith, parenting, and combating anti-Semitism. Sarah discusses educating children on Jewish culture and the importance of understanding the Bible in its proper cultural context. This part deepens the first episode’s discussion, emphasizing faith’s role in understanding and addressing social issues.

If you’re enjoying listening to Blessings and Motherhood, you might also enjoy our other Classical Conversations® podcasts! You can find these shows on your favorite podcast streaming app of choice, or by clicking on the links below. 

Listen to Everyday Educator

Listen to Refining Rhetoric

How can we lay a foundation in our homes for our children to stand upon and grow into mature adults who love to learn and love Jesus? In this episode, Michelle Oliver, the MA Program Academic Lead at Classical Conversations®, joins Delise and Ginny to talk about what building this strong foundation really looks like on a day-to-day basis. Michelle shares practical advice for moms balancing all the things, the importance of establishing “liturgies for the home,” how she guided her children in developing discernment, and the daily habits she practices to cultivate a healthy prayer life. Finally, she talks about her involvement in and love for the Master of Arts program with Classical Conversations Plus through Southeastern University, and why this is an excellent opportunity for Classical Conversations parents to learn the philosophy behind classical education, level up their homeschooling skills, and enjoy discussions and fellowship with like-minded individuals passionate about lifelong learning.

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/creating-family-liturgies

This month, Delise and Ginny sit down (literally, our first-ever in-person episode!) with the incredible Vanessa Royer to talk about adoption, music, homeschooling, and so much more. You’ll discover insights into all things adoption, from the meaning behind the word “adoption” and examples in Scripture to navigating the complicated legal process and a new, popular method called embryonic adoption. Vanessa also shares about her own wild adoption story, her biological children’s relationships with her adoptive children, her advice for parents pursuing or praying about adoption, how inviting new members into your family can completely expand your worldview and empathy, ways to embrace and encourage the cultural heritage of your adoptive children, and why homeschool Christian families are the best families equipped to pursue adoption. Also, passionate about and exceptionally talented in music, Vanessa discusses the role music plays in her life and family, her secrets to making the home a more musical place, and why moms should spend more time pursuing their own passions, whether in art or in business. It’s a longer-than-usual episode (check out the in-person interview on our YouTube channel!), but the conversation is rich, fun, and bursting with takeaways for any mom. We hope you enjoy!

Stay tuned for Part 2 of this episode later this month!

Show notes: BlessingsandMotherhood.com/Vanessa-Royer-part-1

You’re invited to our 2024 National Events Weekend in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! Head over to ClassicalConversationsFoundation.org to learn more.

For any mom seeking advice on how to navigate a parent-adult child relationship or needing encouragement during a season of struggle, we hope you find comfort in this month’s conversation of Blessings and Motherhood! In this episode, mom-daughter combo Julie Melendez and Lauren Clickner hop on the show to talk about how they have nurtured their relationship as parent and child over thirty-some years. In this conversation packed with insights and encouragement from both guests, Julie begins by shining a light on an often unspoken truth about motherhood: that this is a journey that just keeps getting better year after year, even as an empty nester! Together, Julie and Lauren discuss setting spoken boundaries and recognizing unstated ones, honoring one another as both parents and children, navigating all the roles that moms balance, and pouring into your child’s gifts and interests, all while generally reflecting on how their own relationship has transformed since Lauren was a child to now being a wife and mother herself. Bravely, Lauren also shares her story of going through a miscarriage early in her marriage and losing her first daughter, a tragedy she and her mom both dealt with in their own ways.

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/mother-daughter-boundaries

Happy New Year! In this episode, Delise and Ginny talk with Erika Kirk, founder of Proclaim Streetwear and Biblein365, host of the Midweek Rise Up podcast, and an all-new mom to discuss how to make the home a safe refuge for one’s family and how to pursue God’s standards for motherhood. Erika talks through how to become the guardian of your home and walks through practical ways to transform your home into a place of rest for the family. Also, she discusses the importance of viewing motherhood as a privilege rather than a responsibility, tips for fostering digital mindfulness and a wholistic healthy lifestyle in the home, how to foster sacred relationships within your family amidst this crazy world, why you can never over-communicate with those you love, and the importance of not oversharing on social media and keeping some special pockets of your life private. Finally, Delise, Ginny, and Erika all share how they are slowing down in this season of their lives and listening to what God is teaching them. Be sure to stick around for Erika’s encouragement to moms at the end of this episode and be inspired to set this new year on the right path!

Show notes: BlessingsandMotherhood.com/becoming-the-guardian-of-your-home

You’re invited to our 2024 National Events Weekend in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! Register at ClassicalConversationsFoundation.org.

It’s the ultimate crossover episode . . . Delise and Ginny are joined by CC legend and host of the Everyday Educator podcast Lisa Bailey! Lisa recently became a grandmother, so in this conversation, she chats about parenting versus grandparenting. As a parent, she was often so focused on doing everything right that she missed out on opportunities to enjoy the small, simple moments of her children just growing up. But now, as she is blessed with the chance to relive those moments with her grandson, she can be more present and treasure every minute. Of course, with the much-anticipated release of Scribblers at Home: Recipes from Lifelong Learning, Lisa also talks about her involvement in creating this new Classical Conversations® resource and what it really means to play intentionally with our children. Finally, she shares some practical tips for setting boundaries as a parent and emphasizes the importance of asking our children questions instead of rushing in to give them the answers. As you listen, we hope Lisa’s wisdom and joy shines through this conversation and leaves you inspired and uplifted!

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/savoring-moments-with-lisa-bailey

Get to know Classical Conversations’ CEO Robert Bortins! Delise, Ginny, and Robert dive into his personal life and what it was like being raised by the founder of Classical Conversations. They also answer questions that were sent in by listeners.

 https://refiningrhetoric.com/

Make April 26 a Family Day at theater! #UnsungHeroMovie opens everywhere beginning April 26. From the creators of Jesus Revolution comes Unsung Hero. Tickets on sale now. Visit https://tickets.unsunghero.movie/.

Have you ever wondered where compulsory schooling originated? In this episode, Jennifer Courtney walks us through her classical, Christian education timeline, explaining how we got where we are today. Delise, Ginny, and Jennifer discuss the history of schooling and how you can be the best educator for your children.

“How Should We Then Live?” – Francis Schaeffer 

The Great Brain series – John D. Fitzgerald

That Hideous Strength – C. S. Lewis

The Abolition of Man – C. S. Lewis

Pride and Prejudice is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their reading and thinking skills. Wide margins encourage note taking and having “conversations” with the book and its author.
Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/.

Can you believe it’s almost 2023? With all the craziness that comes with Thanksgiving and Christmas, it’s easy to forget to set aside time to reflect on the past year and prepare for the new one. In this conversation, Delise and Ginny talk about fresh starts. They discuss everything from looking back in order to look forward, choosing a word to keep top of mind throughout the new year, and fanning into flame your family's gifts.

From Delise and Ginny and everyone at Classical Conversations®, thank you to our listeners of Blessings and Motherhood in 2022. It’s been a great first year of the podcast, and we’re excited to bring you more encouraging episodes in 2023!

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/navigating-a-new-year-with-purpose

Wondering how to make the most of your summer with your kids? Join Delise and Ginny for a treasure trove of ideas! They explore fun summer activities, from gardening and fort-building to creative indoor play and educational projects. Tune in for tips on maintaining structure while embracing spontaneity and creating magical moments with your children.

CC International Video:

https://vimeo.com/936878688/f8ca80b57b?share=copy

New to the Copper Lodge Library this year is English Epic Poetry, a collection with Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and selections from Canterbury Tales and Paradise Lost.

Build a family culture by reading these stories together and have meaningful conversations about wisdom and virtue. Even in the less overtly religious poems of Sir Gawain and Canterbury Tales, readers find Christian themes like courage, forgiveness, and right use of power.

Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/

Discover the surprising connection between math and God! In this episode, Delise and Ginny chat with Kirsty Gilpin, lead mathematician for The Math Map curriculum, about seeing God through math. Kirsty shares personal stories and insightful examples, revealing how mathematical concepts offer profound insights into the nature of God.

themathmap.com

leighbortins.com

You’re invited to our 2024 National Events Weekend in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! Register at https://classicalconversationsfoundation.org/.

Ever wanted to sit at the feet of a mom with over twenty years of parenting under her belt? This episode is for you! In this fourth episode of Blessings and Motherhood, Delise and Ginny interview Tara Furman, the founder of Knowing God Ministries. This is a continued conversation from two weeks ago centering around the pursuit of God in all seasons of motherhood. Among other topics, Tara discusses how to know when to speak and when to be silent, how to tell your husband that you need time to process, and how to discover your family members’ love languages.

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/tara-furman-part-2

Homeschool moms can easily slip into compartmentalizing their lives into two roles—the teacher and the parent. However, learning and parenting aren’t boxes to be checked off but rather journeys to be lived intentionally and in harmony. In this conversation, Delise and Ginny sit down with Heather Shirley, a longtime homeschool mom and Classical Conversations leader, to explore how homeschool moms can live more integrated lives. They explore topics such as the biblical view and purpose of education, the meaning of being a ‘lead learner,’ and how parents can enhance the opportunity to reclaim their education. Plus, Heather shares some of her favorite resources that have kept her motivated and encouraged on her own homeschooling journey.

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/reclaiming-your-education-with-heather-shirley

How can you continue to date your spouse into marriage? During this conversation, Delise and Ginny are joined by their good friend Cristina Smith to chat about dating in marriage. Together, they explore what Scripture says about dating, suggest ideas for dates, and recall their favorite dates over the years. In true classical fashion, the three take a step back, attempting to define a “date” and consider the purpose of dating in the first place. Remember—no marriage is perfect. So don’t expect anything less from this episode than an honest conversation about the reality of dating amid busy lives with homes full of busy kids.

Also, a note on our updated release schedule for Blessings and Motherhood: episodes will now be released on the first Wednesday of every month. So, make sure to subscribe to not miss an episode, and join us on the Blessings and Motherhood journey in 2023

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/dating-your-spouse-with-cristina-smith

Navigating the tension between encouraging independence and providing necessary support can be tricky for parents. Delise and Ginny explore the concept of independent learning in parenting. They discuss the balance between self-directed learning and the importance of community support, tackling common misconceptions and sharing practical tips. 

Copper Lodge Library offers a collection of stories presented in a beautiful series of books for the whole family to enjoy. Build a family culture by reading these stories together and have meaningful conversations about wisdom and virtue.

Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/

Discover practical tips for organizing your home, embracing community, and understanding it’s okay to ask for help.  Join us on “Blessings and Motherhood” as we chat with Laura Hernandez, founder of “Mama Systems.” Laura, a mom of ten, shares her journey of creating peace and intentionality in her busy household.

https://www.mamasystems.net/

More information about Great Wolf Lodge and Exclusive CC Discount Code found in the CC Connected Learning Center > Member Benefits and Additional Resources Document.

https://www.greatwolf.com/

In this “Blessings and Motherhood” episode, Delise and Ginny discuss education and parenting with Andrew Pudewa, founder of the Institute for Excellence in Writing. They explore his insights on teaching writing, the importance of reading aloud to children, and practical tips for homeschooling parents. This enriching conversation offers encouragement and strategies for parents aiming to improve their children's reading and writing skills.

Institute for Excellence in Writing

Join other homeschool parents in your area at a 2024 Practicum event! https://ccpracticum.com/

Big changes are coming to Blessings and Motherhood! Join hosts Delise and Jenny as they reminisce about favorite past episodes - from homeschooling wisdom with Jennifer Courtney to navigating family rhythms with Michelle Oliver - and share important updates about the future of the podcast.

Mark your calendar for the 2025 National Commencement, May 16-17, 2025, in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! This is a time for Classical Conversations families from around the nation to celebrate the hard work with fellow families on the homeschooling journey.
Register at https://classicalconversationsfoundation.org/

In this special replay episode, co-hosts Delise and Ginny discuss different approaches to handling Santa Claus in Christian households. Using classical tools of learning, they explore personal experiences, faith perspectives, and how each family navigates the balance between holiday magic and biblical truth. The hosts share updates on how their approaches have evolved since the original episode aired last Christmas, including handling children's questions and maintaining wonder while staying true to their values.

Join Delise and Ginny as they reflect on the year so far. They chat about the ups and downs of parenting, the goals they've set and achieved, and the surprises along the way. Grab a coffee, and let's dive into heartfelt conversations that will encourage you and provide thoughtful questions to ponder with friends or family.

New to the Copper Lodge Library this year is English Epic Poetry, a collection with Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and selections from Canterbury Tales and Paradise Lost.

Build a family culture by reading these stories together and have meaningful conversations about wisdom and virtue. Even in the less overtly religious poems of Sir Gawain and Canterbury Tales, readers find Christian themes like courage, forgiveness, and right use of power.

Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/.

How can we imprint God’s Word on our hearts and minds? On those of our children? In this episode, Ginny interviews Delise about how she developed a deep knowledge of the Bible and a talent for recalling memorized verses. From childhood activities to current habits, Delise discusses strategies both children and parents can use to memorize the Scriptures and to know God better. And together, Delise and Ginny explore practical ways parents can naturally and intentionally open the Bible to their children as they learn God's word.

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/knowing-gods-word

How do you create a healthy relationship with your child? Delise and Ginny sit down with homeschooling mentor Connie Albers to discuss building strong connections with our children. Connie provides practical insights into navigating the challenges of parenting, especially when dealing with resistant children. Tune in for valuable advice on fostering healthy relationships and effective communication with your kids at every stage of their development.

https://conniealbers.com/

Do you want to become a better everyday educator? Visit https://ccpracticum.com/ to find out when your local Practicum meets.

What does the Bible say about self-love? Is this idea, prevalent in our culture, helpful or harmful? In this episode, Delise and Ginny interview Christian author and podcaster Allie Beth Stuckey. Among other topics, they discuss Allie Beth’s new book You Are Not Enough (And That’s Ok), which debunks five cultural myths around self-love. Allie Beth also shares encouraging advice for moms wondering how to teach their children Scriptural truths.

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/allie-beth-stuckey

Can a simple stick in the sand really be all you need to teach your child? In this illuminating episode, Delise welcomes back special guest Jill Philbrick, a veteran homeschooling mom and long-time member of the Classical Conversations community. In this heartwarming episode, Jill shares her wisdom on finding God's presence in everyday moments through what she calls the "treasure hunt" of daily life. From examining rocks with curious children to discovering the beauty in simple teaching tools, Jill explores the powerful concept of "stick and sand" - a back-to-basics approach to education that reminds us that sometimes the simplest methods can be the most effective.

Choice is good. A good choice is better. Therefore, choose better.

Click here to learn more about Education Independence and join the Education Independence Network. We exist to educate, inspire, and equip members to promote and protect education independence in their local government. 

https://chooseeducationindependence.com/

Moms face a dilemma: stay home to care for the kids, work a job, or try to balance both at the same time. In this episode of Blessings and Motherhood, April Foster, the communications manager at Classical Conversations®, joins the show to chat about her experience navigating this tension between pursuing a career and being a caregiver to her children. With Delise working full-time and Ginny part-time, the three mothers dive into an important conversation about balancing parenting, homeschooling, and working, offering helpful insights and powerful stories along the way. Plus, April recalls how she went from never, ever, ever considering homeschooling to homeschooling both her children through high school!

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/the-career-vs-caregiver-tension-with-april-foster

Join Delise and Ginny as they chat with Emily Philip, a veteran CC homeschooling mom. Emily shares her homeschooling journey with Classical Conversations, balancing life with four kids, and the joys of a supportive family. Gain practical tips, inspiration, and fun anecdotes from her story!

Emily’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX6a5Kz67acRFlSnTzKVH_g

https://www.amazon.com/shop/emilythehomeschooler

The Secret Garden is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their reading and thinking skills. Wide margins encourage note taking and having “conversations” with the book and its author. 

Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at CopperLodgeLibrary.com.

Say hello to Delise’s mom, Chelly Barnard! As a mother of four and homeschool parent of over twenty years, Chelly has a unique understanding of the mental load that mothers often bear. She brings a biblical perspective to those often-overwhelming feelings of responsibility, insecurity, and ever-shrinking time to get it all done. Chelly comes prepared with her best time management tips and the most helpful habits she has developed over the years as a mom that enable her to have a healthy relationship with her mental load. She discusses investing in a good planner, keeping analog lists of recipes and groceries, placing dry-erase boards around the house for jotting down quick notes and things to remember, delegating chores to the kids (sorry, Delise!), accepting that you won’t be able to get everything done on your list in one day, and turning to the Lord for guidance and comfort in bearing the mental load. Plus, Chelly tells how she was able to still have time for her hobbies during her busy seasons of parenting and homeschooling. Join us for this conversation packed with insights you won’t want to miss!

Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/managing-the-mental-load

Did you know Classical Conversations® Challenge students can earn college credit for the coursework they already complete? To learn more, visit ClassicalConversationsPlus.com.

Do your children struggle with understanding and managing emotions? In this “Blessings and Motherhood” episode, Kamilah Carter discusses her journey with homeschooling. She emphasizes the importance of community in education, setting appropriate boundaries, and nurturing individual relationships with each child. The conversation highlights the challenges and joys of parenting, advocating for a balance between recognizing children’s feelings and teaching them responsible emotional management.

mamabearapologetics.com

Love Thy Body - Nancy Pearcey | Amazon

M is for Mama

You’re invited to our 2024 National Events Weekend in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! Register at ClassicalConversationsFoundation.org.