This Grit and Grace Life

Are you putting off scheduling your next OB-GYN appointment? We get it—it can be uncomfortable, awkward, and even embarrassing to chat with the doc about issues or questions related to down there. That's why we're bringing back this episode of This Grit and Grace Life with guest Dr. Holly Miller, a board certified OB-GYN, to answer all the hard OB-GYN questions you need to know about feminine health but are probably too embarrassed to ask about. This episode is filled with questions that women tend to run from, including: When do we see a gynecologist? Why do we see gynecologists? Do we have to see a gynecologist? And the biggest question, why are we terrified of seeing a gynecologist? Whether you’re busy or scared something is wrong and you don't want to face it, you need to go see a gynecologist. It’s that simple! Neglecting your health is no way to handle potential issues you may be facing. We know after listening, you’ll feel comfortable and confident scheduling your next appointment! What else you’ll learn: When a teenager should see a gynecologist When you should have your first pap smear How regularly you should have a pap smear and pelvic exams How to feel comfortable when seeing your gynecologist Important information you need to share with your gynecologist What a “normal cycle” should look like Symptoms you need to look out for throughout our womanhood Common issues you need to know are not normal When you need to begin getting regular mammograms The top things Dr. Miller wants you to know about your feminine health Why you never need to feel embarrassed! Dr. Holly Miller completed medical school at Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine and a residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. She’s currently an OB-GYN physician in Florida. Outside of the office, Dr. Miller enjoys reading, running and spending time with her husband and four children. Find more from Dr. Miller by visiting her practice website here. Quote of the episode: “It's extremely important that women of all ages have a relationship with a doctor, specifically a gynecologist." —Dr. Holly Miller Resources Mentioned: Follow Dr. Holly Miller on Instagram for more feminine health advice HERE. Be sure to follow us on social media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest #gritandgracelife

How do you measure your self-worth? Is it determined by a respectable title at work or the approving nods ands compliments you receive on an outfit? Is it measured by how similar your home looks to your favorite influencer's or your own personal follower count on Instagram? This week, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender get together to offer a single resounding answer to all those questions: No. Your self-worth isn't determined by any of these things. And yet, the culture we live in upholds this pervasive idea that our worth is dependent on what we do or how put-together our lives appear, when in reality—in God's reality—it's who we are that matters. If you struggle, like Julie did, with feeling like you're not enough or even too much for others, listen to this episode to learn where your worth comes from and how you can walk boldly in who you are. The world doesn't dictate your self-worth. Remember—God has a plan for you, and you're on the road to who you're becoming. Give grace to yourself on the way there. Quote of the episode: “Stop shrinking to fit places you’ve outgrown.” —Darlene Resources Mentioned Psalm 138:3 (AMP) Related "The Airbrushed Bombshell: Brushing Back Body Image Issues" "Am I Worth More than a Penny?" "I Did a Social Media Detox and Learned Why We’re Always Reaching for Our Phones" Bible Verses on Self-Worth From the Grit and Grace Team "How to Say 'Good Riddance' to that Pesky Shadow: Shame" Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

You may have seen the movie "Unsung Hero" and learned a little about the childhood and career of Christian singer and songwriter Rebecca St. James. But we thought we would revisit an earlier episode of This Grit and Grace Life podcast when Rebecca joined the show to chat about another important part of her life: dating and finding "the one." Landing your forever-after prince isn’t always so clear-cut. We wonder whether he’s out there, how long it’ll take to find him, and if we’ll even recognize him when the moment arrives. We can even get so frustrated with the wait that we might be tempted to settle for a good man but not the right man. But is it worth waiting for the right one? Rebecca insists it is. She shares the ups and downs of her own journey through dating and how she ultimately found her husband (and knew he was “the one” almost instantly). She, Darlene, and Julie also discuss what character traits to look for in the right man, how you can stay committed to the values you set for yourself without settling, and whether you’re giving too many husband privileges to a boyfriend who won’t commit. Rebecca St. James is a GRAMMY-winning Christian singer/songwriter, author, and speaker. She is also the co-host of the podcast Practice Makes Parent alongside Dr. Danny Huerta where they discuss strategies and inspiration for parenting kids of all ages. You can follow Rebecca on Instagram @rebeccast.james, on Facebook @RSJames or on her website at rebeccastjames.com. Quote of the episode: “There was this soul connection where it’s like he has the same spirit, same values, same heart, same true, core desires in life.” —Rebecca St. James on finding her husband Resources Mentioned Watch "Unsung Hero" here Listen to this podcast episode for more on Rebecca's family: “Meet the Extraordinary Mom Behind the New Movie 'Unsung Hero' – 238” Listen to Rebecca's podcast, Rebecca St. James Friends and Family Related Listen to Rebecca's newest co-hosted podcast, Practice Makes Parent Read now: “These 10 Red Flags in Dating Should Make You Run” Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

When we get married, we have dreams, hopes and goals for what our lifelong union with our new partner will look like. But that idealistic view doesn't always match reality. Instead, we may find ourselves wondering why our man is so different compared to how he used to be at the beginning of the relationship or to the doting husbands we see on social media. Maybe we find ourselves in constant conflict with him, never finding common ground. Both of these issues can slowly and painfully drive your marriage into the ground. Comparison and conflict are major, yet common, issues in marriage. Our very own co-host, Julie Bender, experienced them in her relationships. In this podcast episode—and in her book, soon to be releases as part of our "Smart Living in Small Bites" book series*—Julie walks through her difficult upbringing, her first marriage to Paul and the challenges they faced during their 11 years together, his unexpected passing and her experience dating and marrying her current husband, Donny. Julie shares what to do when marriage is hard, revealing the comparison traps and the signs that indicate serious, underlying issues with communication and honesty and offers practical, fresh ways to resolve them. You and your spouse need to set your pride aside and be ready to work hard to protect and save your marriage. It may not be easy, but it will be worth it. *Our "Smart Living in Small Bites" book series is our latest endeavor here at Grit and Grace Life.We're creating and publishing a series of subject-specific guidebooks—written by our team of writers with direct experience in those subjects—that you can use to walk (and work) through your own challenges, at your own pace. Keep an eye out for this book and others in the series later this year. Quote of the episode: “There's no effort that you put into your marriage that isn't going to bear fruit." —Julie Bender Resources Mentioned Julie Graham's Untold Story of Heartbreak, Healing and Hope - 101 What Today's Dating Scene Is Really Like - 094 Watch Julie's "Praying for Your Husband Daily" video series HERE Stay up-to-date on the release of our "Smart Living in Small Bites" book series. Click here, then scroll halfway down and sign up for our newsletter on the right-hand side of the page. Related Marriage Is Not a Hallmark Movie—But It Can Be Better This Is a Window Into My Widowhood Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

With Memorial Day upon us, co-hosts Darlene Brock and Julie Bender are honoring service members' sacrifices by encouraging us all to step into every area of life the same way those military men and women did—with bravery. But what does that look like to be brave at work? In our relationships? In motherhood? In this episode, Darlene and Julie identify instances that might give us pause and why it's critical to push through them. Our character and integrity are often at stake in these situations, so we must be willing to get comfortable with being uncomfortable—whether others think we're uncool or overprotective or too Christian—to protect them. Bravery isn't easy, but it's worth the things that matter. Quote of the episode: “But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear, therefore, you are of more value than many sparrows." —Luke 12:7 Resources Mentioned How to Handle a Hard Relationship with Your Mom - 089 Read about Ananias approaching Saul in Acts 9 Related Establishing Healthy Boundaries in the Grit and Grace Life Find the Bravery to Live Our Your Purpose Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Are you itching for a vacation? Maybe the chilliness of winter has dragged on a hair too long and cabin fever has set in. If you're nodding along saying, "YES," then you'll want to tune into episode 240 of This Grit and Grace Life podcast. In this episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender share 17 summer vacation destinations around the United States that you may have never considered visiting before but will be glad to have experienced. They list recommendations for kids and adults alike that span every corner of the nation (Washington, Kentucky, Florida, Massachusetts, California, Texas, Ohio) and every interest: music, cars, space, U.S. history (the good and the bad), faith, art and more. Let this episode be the final push you need to book that flight and make memories that will last a lifetime. Quote of the episode: “Wouldn't you rather like to have a lot of stories to tell, memories that were made, than a full bank account?" —Darlene Brock Resources Mentioned Making Music magazine Related 9 Trips to Travel More and Spend Less Simple Guidelines for Traveling with Kids and How to Enjoy It 10 Packing Tips When You Need to Travel Light Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

We tackle many difficult subjects here at Grit and Grace Life, and often, they’re ones that have impacted us directly. In this episode, co-host Darlene Brock shares one of her own—losing her father to suicide. As with any tragedy, Darlene found herself navigating unexpected emotions, working to reconcile the choice of suicide with the father she loved, asking questions that could be answered and accepting those that could not. In sharing her story now, she hopes to impart an important lesson to those dealing with this unbearable pain: God can bring healing. It won’t be overnight, and it won’t be easy. But there is hope to be found. If you’ve also lost someone dear to you to suicide, we hope this episode brings you some comfort in hearing from someone who has also been through the same journey. This idea is what inspired our next endeavor here at Grit and Grace Life: creating and publishing a series of subject-specific guidebooks—written by our team of writers with direct experience in those subjects—that you can use to walk (and work) through your own challenges, at your own pace. Keep an eye out for this book and others in the “Smart Living In Small Bites” series, coming later this year. Quote of the episode: “Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal.” —Thomas Moore Resources Mentioned (in this episode and Darlene's book) Suicide Prevention Hotline Suicide Prevention for Family Members and Caregivers Testimonies from suicide survivors Focus on the Family suicide resources Grieving a Suicide: A Loved One's Search for Comfort, Answers and Hope Silent Grief: Living in the Wake of Suicide Shattered: From Grief to Joy After My Son's Suicide This Is How to Handle a Hard Relationship With Your Mom – 089 Related My Dad's Suicide and the Hole In My Heart When Desperation Comes, Why Choose Suicide? Suicide Isn't Easily Understood, But You Need to Know This Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Later this month, the film "Unsung Hero" premieres in theaters across the nation. The movie chronicles one Australian mom's radical decision to move her family across the world in faith that they can find reprieve from their struggles. We don't want to spoil it for you, but this mother's decision pays off. If you've ever jammed out to FOR KING & COUNTRY or Rebecca St. James, you can thank Helen Smallbone—the determined mum from Down Under. Her unorthodox decision to pack up her family's belongings and shuttle herself, her husband and their six kids (with a seventh on the way!) was met with as much doubt as you might imagine. As a mom, it’s hard to filter out the opinions and recommendations from other people on how to raise your kids. This week, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender throw it back to a previous episode with Helen, who shared the good news: It's OK to be a different kind of mom! You know your kids better than anyone, and raising them the way you feel is best—no matter how it looks to those on the outside—will undoubtedly be what they need. We hope you feel encouraged that the path you have established for your family is the right one. And if you’re still on the fence, take a listen to this episode and see for yourself! Helen Smallbone is the co-founder of MUMlife Community and a podcast host with AccessMore. Her passion is encouraging mothers and families with the God-breathed wisdom she has gleaned over 32 years of being a mother. Born and raised in Australia, Helen dedicated her life to Christ as a young teen at the Billy Graham Crusade in Sydney. Now a mother to seven―five boys and two girls―and grandmother to thirteen, she currently lives outside of Nashville, Tennessee, with her husband, David, and a small menagerie of animals. You can follow Helen on Facebook @helenjsmallbone and on Instagram @helensmallbone. Quote of the episode: “For me as a parent, it's my job to encourage [my] child on their journey to seek out who God has made them to be.” —Helen Smallbone Resources Mentioned Check out information about "Unsung Hero" here Buy Helen's book, Behind the Lights here Read Peter's account of denying Jesus here Easter, the Best Love Story Ever Told 7 Lessons from Easter You Need All Year Long - 128 Related Forgiveness Is the Key to Living a Bitter-Free Life The Hope of Easter Restores All Things Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Easter isn't all about Peeps and Cadbury eggs, although co-host Julie Bender wouldn't mind one or two! But is Easter the ultimate call to action? In this heartfelt podcast episode, Julie and Darlene Brock discuss the significance of Easter, which they recognize as the pinnacle of their faith. But what does it mean to truly observe the holiday? Here, they unpack the meaning of Jesus Christ's brutal death on the cross more than 2,000 years ago and why His suffering, while difficult to think on, is crucial to understanding the scope of His love for us and how we're supposed to live today. You'll see how Jesus' forgiveness even as he was dying models the way we should approach our relationship with others through sacrificial love and grace. The message of Easter is one of hope, today and for a lifetime. Want to chat with us about Easter or your faith? Send us a note here! Quote of the episode: “My relationship with Christ is secure because of what he did and [because] I've accepted it. And because of that, I have hope today. I have hope tomorrow. I have hope everyday of this life and for all of eternity." —Darlene Brock Resources Mentioned Read Peter's account of denying Jesus here Easter, the Best Love Story Ever Told 7 Lessons from Easter You Need All Year Long - 128 Related Forgiveness Is the Key to Living a Bitter-Free Life The Hope of Easter Restores All Things Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Life feeling mundane? It doesn't have to! In fact, it's easier to see the adventure and joys in the everyday than you might think. In this episode of This Grit and Grace Life, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender emphasize the importance of making the most of life. They talk through ways to shift your mindset when it comes to your purpose, your relationships, your motherhood and your work so you can more clearly see the value each facet brings. When viewed through this new perspective, the things you may think are annoying and trivial might actually be part of a larger blessing. And when each day seems full of small blessings, it'll be impossible to deny just how special your everyday life really is. Quote of the episode: “If you can't see the bright side of life, polish the dull side." —Unknown Resources Mentioned Check out Julie's husband's business here Related The Joy Series: Feel Stuck In the Mundane? Unlock Joy In the Everyday A Strong Woman Has These 7 Things On Her Bucket List The Joy Series: Parenting a Teen Is Hard, But I've Found Gratitude Among the Grumbles Where Can I Find the Purpose of Life? Can You Really Enjoy the Little Things In Life? 17 Quotes to Create the Happy Moments Mindset Every Day – 130 Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

If you're living with anxiety, you know it can be debilitating. A sudden panic or anxiety attack can quickly ruin your day, and over time, it can keep you from pursuing your dreams. Caroline Beidler knows what that's like. The author, speaker and recovery advocate recalls bouts of anxiety as a child, which were exacerbated by her parents' divorce and sexual trauma. She began self-medicating with alcohol and drugs, and though she eventually became sober, she found herself still dealing with anxiety decades later and wondering what was wrong. In this episode, she sits down with Darlene Brock and Julie Bender to discuss how she learned to practically address anxiety as a woman of faith—and prayer and Scripture are just two parts of the larger picture. She highlights the importance of therapy, building up your circle of support, staying active and openly discussing anxiety and other mental health issues in the church. Caroline Beidler, BA, MSW is the author of Downstairs Church: Finding Hope in the Grit of Addiction and Trauma Recovery, and she is currently writing her next project, due 2024. A recovery advocate, and founder of the storytelling platform Circle of Chairs. with almost 20 years in leadership within social work and ministry Caroline is currently a consultant with JBS International, writing and creating content for several federal agencies. She is also the founder and host of the annual International Women’s Day Global Recovery Event. Caroline lives in Tennessee with her husband and twins where she enjoys hiking in the mountains and building up her community’s local recovery ministry. Quote of the episode: “Being human is about recognizing and acknowledging our weakness. But what's beautiful is that God works in that place." —Caroline Beidler Resources Mentioned Downstairs Church: Finding Hope in the Grit of Addiction and Trauma Recovery Self-Care Is an Act of Radical Love for Mommas How to Use 4-7-8 Breathing for Anxiety Related Ask Dr. Zoe – Coping With Anxiety Biblically Drinking Excessively? Here Are 8 Healthier Coping Strategies for Women A Breath Prayer to Calm Your Mind and Body Can Faith Bring Hope to Everything—Even Anxiety? Ask Dr. Zoe – What Is Normal Anxiety & When Should I Seek Help? Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Love is in the air! Maybe you're in a loving relationship and feel giddy at the mere mention of love, or maybe you're on the hunt for that special someone. No matter your relationship status, one thing is certain: Don't settle for less! In this podcast episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender discuss how our expectations for love compare to our current relationships or what we want in a man. They explain why you should trust the process (and your gut!) and not rush anything, and how to celebrate and honor a healthy relationship. They also share their favorite relationships advice and 14 quick ways to tell if your man is worthy of your love, so you never settle again! Quote of the episode: “When you're dating someone, go to [1 Corinthians 13:4-7] and put their name in. 'Is Bob kind? Is Bob loving? Is Bob patient?' That's going to be very telling." —Darlene Brock Resources Mentioned Is Your Man a Keeper? Here’s How to Be Sure – 214 I Thought He’d Propose on Valentine’s Day—He Broke Up Instead My Boyfriend Brings Me Flowers, Is That Enough? Related How to Avoid the Wrong Guy: A Checklist for Strong Women Is It Time to Break Up With Your Guy? This Is How to Do It Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Want a good laugh? Well, you're in for a treat! In this lighthearted episode of This Grit and Grace Life, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender bring back an older episode where they discuss the importance of finding humor in life—and they do it by sharing several listener-submitted memes and funny phrases on topics like relationships and motherhood that will make you chuckle. And more likely than not, you'll relate to many of them. Quote of the episode: “You never realize how many people you don't like until it's time to name your baby." Resources Mentioned When to Leave an Unhealthy Relationship with Your Man with Dr. Zoe Shaw – 024 Dating? What to Look for in a Man - 073 Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

"Is my teen out of control, or is this normal behavior? At one point do I need to begin enforcing changes?" These questions often consume moms of teens and preteens, and on this throwback episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender ask psychotherapist and relationship coach Dr. Zoe Shaw for advice. Dr. Zoe discusses how to approach privacy and your teen's internet and social media use; how to recognize which moments you should step aside and allow your teen to make mistakes, and when it's time for you to intervene; and If you have a teen (or will soon), this episode is filled with the answers to some your most pressing motherhood questions. Dr. Zoe Shaw is a passionate practitioner in the field of clinical psychology. She is licensed as a psychotherapist and divides her time between her family life, clinical practice, virtual life, and relationship coaching, speaking, writing and hosting her podcast. You can follow Dr. Zoe by visiting her site, or finding her on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter as well as her podcast, Stronger in the Difficult Places. Submit a question to our free Ask Dr. Zoe column. Quote of the episode: “We take it personally when it's not personal; it's their development.” —Dr. Zoe Shaw Resources Related The Joy Series: Parenting a Teen Is Hard, But I've Found Gratitude Among the Grumbles 5 Verses to Help You Survive the Teenage Years It Feels Like My Teen Is Rejecting Me, But I Know It's Something Else Check out these other podcast episodes with Dr. Zoe Why Hasn't Your Boyfriend Proposed or Set the Date? - 180 How to Find Peace and Purpose In an Out-of-Control World - 164 How to Make Self-Care Part of Your Life - 155 Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Want to make a change in 2024? No matter what it may be, you need a path to get there. In this episode of This Grit and Grace Life, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender break down the differences between a reset, a redo, and a restart—and how to outline a plan for each—so you can chart the appropriate course for the change you want to implement. Making a change can be nerve-wracking, but the steps shared here will set you on a clear path to your goals with little room for error. And if you being to doubt your decision along the way, Julie shares some words of wisdom to help you get back on track. Quote of the episode: “There's a reason your windshield is bigger than your rearview mirror: Where you're headed is more important than what you left behind.” —Unknown Resources I Changed My Mind; Change Can Be the Right Thing to Do Want to Change Your Life? Start Building Something New How Brain Science Restored My Hope for Change Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

It's the most wonderful time of the year—or is it? We believe it is, but we know that stress and hardships can sometimes surface and crowd out those merry feelings. Rather than feeling swayed by the weight of those challenges, we want to help you find the good. In this episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender share an assortment of quotes that remind us of our ability to make the most of every day, cultivate that happy moments mindset and lead the life we want by shifting our perspective. What are you spending time thinking about? Are you focusing on the good deeds you witness, the blessings you have at home? The kindness of others, the beauty of nature? All those little happy moments? They are there—you just have to train your brain to see them for what they are! Quote of the episode: “If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” —Wayne Dyer Resources Mentioned Click HERE for a PDF of all the quotes shared in this episode. Print them out or send them to a friend! Related Life Changes When You Flip Your Perspective—Here's How Can You Really Enjoy the Little Things In Life? Finding Happiness In an Unhappy World - 210 Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

This week, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender discuss what faith, hope, and love should look like when played out in our lives. You'll learn how they each decided to pursue faith; how we should pour out love and gratitude back to God through the work we do and how we carry ourselves; how faith fulfills our ability to hope, which sustains us during hard times and reminds us of what’s good in a world that feels scary and messy; why we're called to love others (even those who don't love us back) and how to show it. Any one of these tenets—or perhaps all three—may feel complicated or even a bit foreign to you. This episode is a helpful guide to understanding what they look like and how they all work together to resemble a fulfilling life that looks like Christ's. Quote of the episode: “We, at times, may be put right in the position to show love in a very tangible, real way to someone who desperately needs it." —Julie Bender Resources Related Building Faith: Growing In Your Relationship with God 5 Ways to Hold Onto Hope in Radical Uncertainty You Are Loved More than You Know A Simple Straw, a Homeless Man, and an Impacted Life Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Did you know that this podcast and its adjoining website, Grit and Grace Life, are run entirely by donations? That's right—we're not your typical media outlet! The Grit and Grace Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit funded by generous individuals who believe in our mission to inform and encourage women in their life journey. We believe women can prepare for every facet of life—from motherhood, work and health to purpose, relationships, and faith—by learning from those who have walked those paths before them. The articles on our site are a treasure trove of wisdom from our global collective of writers who want to give other women a leg up by sharing their experiences, both challenging and joyful. After all, strong women are stronger together! This has been at the core of our mission since 2015, and we don't plan to slow down. In fact, in this episode, Managing Editor Ashley Johnson reveals The Grit and Grace Project's next big undertaking, which will come to fruition in 2024. We're passionate about helping women and getting these resources out to as many of them as possible. With your help, our reach will expand even further. Quote of the episode: “You learn the best things in life from people who have lived it." —Darlene Brock Please consider a tax-deductible donation to The Grit and Grace Project. You can mail it to P.O. Box 247, Estero, FL 33929, or by using the link below from now until Christmas Day, and your gift will be matched:  Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

We've all heard the adage "Beauty is more than skin deep," but do you believe it? It doesn't take more than five minutes scrolling Instagram or wandering the magazine newsstands to realize that the media—and, by extension, our culture—is saturated with images depicting luscious hair, dewy skin and trim figures. We live in a society that clamors for beauty, and because of that, it's hard to escape our own concerns over our self-image. In this episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender sit down with Grit and Grace Life's Managing Editor, Ashley Johnson, to talk about real beauty. Over a decade ago, Ashley was diagnosed with alopecia areata, a disease resulting in hair loss. She discusses how she discovered she had alopecia, her emotional response, the treatments she's pursued and how she's ultimately come to terms with living with a disease that doesn't offer many answers. Despite feeling vulnerable and at one point grappling with the loss of her identity, Ashley shares how her faith helped restore her perception of herself, and how we can avoid disrupting the balance between caring about aesthetics to being obsessed with our image. Hint: It has to a lot to do with searching for the real beauty below the surface—both in ourselves and in others. Don’t be fooled by Ashley Johnson’s quiet presence. She’s an internal processor who just might overthink from time to time. When she’s not caught up in her thoughts, she’s usually writing them or enjoying the thoughts of others. She’s a wife, new mom, and lover of all things pretty. Quote of the episode: “If you look at our world, God created it with beauty. Obviously he cares about aesthetics. I think it's only natural for people who are made like him to care about beauty. But I think, like anything, we can become obsessed with it." —Ashley Johnson Resources Related How to Age Gracefully in a Culture Obsessed with Beauty True Beauty Is Found in a Woman's Strength Just Because She's Pretty Doesn't Mean You're Not Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

It's officially the holiday season, and we already know what's lingering in the back of your mind—shopping for gifts. Gift-giving can be such a joyful exchange when your loved one has been casually dropping hints all year long, but what about the folks who keep mum? This is where Darlene Brock and Julie Bender come in to save the (holi-) day. In this episode, the Grit and Grace Life co-hosts present a robust Christmas gift guide with more than 25 fresh ideas for every person on your list. Submitted by the team of writers at Grit and Grace Life, the items in this gift guide are perfect (affordable!) stocking stuffers or under-the-tree presents for the gym-goer, newlywed, gardener, mom on the go, bookworm, college student, man or child in your life. All of these products are linked below, and most of them can be added to your Amazon cart with a simple click. Now you can knock out your Christmas shopping and spend the rest of the time you saved decorating, baking or just basking in the glow of the Christmas lights with a hot chocolate in hand. Quote of the episode: “Do to others as you would like them to do to you." —Luke 6:31 Gift Guide Product Links For Women —Customizable Bobbleheads —14-in-1 Multitool Hammer —Vooray 23L Burner Gym Duffel Bag —EAONE Garden Kneeler and Seat —ProsourceFit Acupressure Mat and Pillow —CAKES Body Nipple Covers —Personalized Initial Necklace —Apple Watch —Dressy Apple Watch Bands —Fun/Variety Apple Watch Bands —Sporty Apple Watch Bands —GCI Outdoor Rocking Camper Chair —Mkono Plant Propagation Wall Hanging Terrarium —BOGG Bag —Loop Wifi Digital Picture Frame —Stuff I'd Only Tell God Guided Journal —Christmas Memories Keepsake Journal —Used Books Monthly Subscription —Beautyrest Reversible Faux Sherpa Electric Wrap Poncho —Yarn Bowl for Crochet by Laborwood For Men —Ooni Koda Gas Pizza Oven —Sharper Image Powerboost Deep Tissue Massager —Miracle Made NASA-Inspired Sheets —Wireless Charging Valet Tray For Kids —Waterproof Digital Camera —MAGBLOCK 176-piece Marble Run Magnetic Tiles Sets —ThinkFun Gravity Maze Marble Run Brain Game —Hapinest Find and Seek Scavenger Hunt Indoor/Outdoor Game Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest