Crystal Paine Show Crystal Paine

Welcome back, dear listeners, to an episode that you won't want to miss! Jesse and I are diving into some truly fascinating territory today, starting with a much-requested topic: the Oura Ring. I have been wearing mine since February, and it’s completely transformed my daily routine and overall health.
If you’re curious about what an Oura Ring is, think of it as a high-tech Fitbit but in ring form, tracking everything from your sleep patterns to your recovery scores, and I share all the juicy details on how it’s made such a significant impact on my life! From going to bed earlier to balancing intense workouts with gentle movement, the Oura Ring has been a game-changer. If you’re looking for a comprehensive health tracker, this might just be it!
We spend some time covering some listener feedback, with a listener having written about the Quest protein bars that we mentioned a couple of episodes ago. She has just discovered the s’mores flavor, and I am excited to see how they stack up against our beloved chocolate chip cookie dough ones.
We also hear from a listener with some fantastic audiobook recommendations after our recent episode on audiobooks. She suggests checking out William Kent Krueger’s works, including This Tender Land, which she and her husband loved. Perfect timing for those summer road trips!
We also offer an exciting update on our letter dates. For our date night this week, Jesse and I, for the letter I, watched The Imitation Game, a film that left us deep in thought. A complex, emotional story set during World War II, we have a lot to unpack about it without giving away too much!

In This Episode
[1:20] - Jesse and I are discussing the life-changing impact of the health-tracking Oura Ring!
[3:15] - Listener Sarah shared about discovering s'mores-flavored Quest bars from Walmart.
[5:36] - Another listener, Elizabeth, appreciates audiobook recommendations and suggests books by William Kent Krueger such as This Tender Land.
[6:33] - I have been reading Liturgy of the Ordinary, which explores everyday life as liturgy.
[8:02] - I am only five chapters into the book, but I share my thoughts so far.
[10:48] - Learn about Martie, an online discount food store that is especially good for those with dietary restrictions.
[12:18] - Jesse and I, for our “I” date, recently watched The Imitation Game, a complex and haunting film about wartime decisions.
[14:28] - Watching a Cold War documentary revealed new, unsettling information about atomic bomb testing and consequences.
[16:33] - The documentary highlighted the devastating effects of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima and Truman's stress.
[19:20] - I reveal how my Oura Ring tracks sleep data accurately, influencing my bedtime routines and overall health.
[22:15] - I describe how going to bed early improves my sleep quality and productivity, as confirmed by my Oura Ring.
[23:58] - The Oura Ring also monitors recovery, guiding my activity levels throughout the day effectively.
[26:28] - I explain how prioritizing gentle movement boosts my energy and improves my sleep and recovery.
[27:54] - In closing, the Oura Ring tracks cycles and sleep with precision, influencing healthier habits daily.

Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Oura Ring
Quest Protein Bars Bundle with Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and S'mores Flavors
Martie

Books

William Kent Krueger (Amazon author page)
This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger
Liturgy of the Ordinary: Sacred Practices in Everyday Life by Tish Harrison Warren


Films

The Imitation Game


Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com


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I'm excited to get to share my podcast episode with Davey Blackburn, the author of Nothing Is Wasted: A True Story of Hope, Forgiveness, and Finding Purpose in Pain. This is a really open conversation about his story of loss, forgiveness, healing, and hope and I think it will encourage anyone who is struggling with some dark and heavy things right now.
In 2015, Davey’s wife Amanda and their unborn child were murdered. In this episode, he shares more about what it was like to walk through that horrific loss, the real and raw emotions he felt, and how changing his perspective from bitterness to compassion gave him the ability to forgive the perpetrators.
He candidly discusses his initial rage and the complexities of forgiveness – both of others and himself, taking us through the challenges of rebuilding amidst deep loss, including the unexpected closure of the church he and Amanda founded. Through it all, Davey shares how he felt God’s presence even in the darkest moments.
One of the most impactful parts of this interview for me was when Davey shares about how empathy for those who caused him unimaginable pain and stepping into their stories transformed his perspective on grace and redemption. His insights are a powerful reminder of God's ability to bring beauty from ashes, reshaping our understanding of suffering and resilience! 
I was so blessed by my time with Davey and really appreciate his willingness to be so open and vulnerable, and whether you're grappling with loss, betrayal, or trauma, this episode promises to inspire and encourage you to find purpose in your own journey!
 
In This Episode
[0:35] - Today, I am interviewing Davey Blackburn, author of Nothing Is Wasted!
[1:08] - Davey, based in Indianapolis, leads Nothing Is Wasted Ministries, aiding those in trauma.
[4:44] - We discuss Davey's real and raw emotions that he chronicles in the book. 
[5:51] - Davey reflects on forgiveness -- forgiving others and himself.
[11:43] - We talk about compassion and empathy toward others, shaped by an understanding of trauma.
[15:22] - Hearing and understanding others' stories has helped Davey learn compassion and empathy.
[17:25] - Davey describes forgiving those who murdered Amanda and their emotional courtroom interactions.
[23:49] - The importance of deep grief and leaning into faith during hardships.
[29:27] - Grappling with life's paradoxes and finding strength in Jesus.
[32:35] - We learn about the mission of Nothing Is Wasted and where they can be found online.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Nothing Is Wasted
Books
Nothing Is Wasted: A True Story of Hope, Forgiveness, and Finding Purpose in Pain by Davey Blackburn
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com


Our Sponsors:
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* Check out Seed and use my code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: seed.com


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Jesse and I are sharing some fun and newsy summer updates, a baking experiment that is all the rage on Instagram, + some engaging documentaries we've watched recently.
We don't watch much in the way of shows during the school year, but we usually watch more TV, movies, and shows in the summer. Recently, we watched a pretty mind-blowing story about identical twins accidentally switched at birth, the gripping and scandalous tale behind Ashley Madison, and the behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to be a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader! Each of these documentaries has brought something unique to the table, from heartwarming to downright shocking and we share our honest reactions on this episode.
Jesse and I also chat about a trending ingredient in for baking on Instagram: cottage cheese! I share about my experiment involving cottage cheese muffins that, despite their promise, left quite a lot to be desired.
I also share a few messages from listeners and we discover that I've been butchering the name of one of my favorite authors for quite some time, and thanks to a helpful listener, I’ve learned how to say Ruta Sepetys’ name correctly (it rhymes with spaghettis)!
On a bit of a more practical note, we share how we're bringing back a tried-and-true summer strategy for managing household chores: morning lists for the kids! It's a simple but effective way to keep things running smoothly around here and free up more time for summer fun. I share how this little routine change has made such a difference in our days.
In This Episode[0:35] - We are discussing a whole gamut of things today, including a baking trend and documentaries we have enjoyed lately.
[1:52] - Cottage cheese is now widely used in ice cream and various baked goods for healthier options.
[4:11] - The cottage cheese muffins I made tasted unpleasantly sour and spongy, despite extra maple syrup.
[10:34] - I recently learned that I have been mispronouncing Ruta Sepetys’ name!
[15:42] - Jennifer Pepito’s book Habits for a Sacred Home has inspired me to improve order and discipline.
[17:18] - The Accidental Twins documents the fascinating story of two sets of Colombian twins mixed up at birth.
[20:14] - The Ashley Madison documentary, covering infidelity and its impact on families, was a shocking and unsettling watch.
[22:36] - Ashley Madison boosted their customer base through negative publicity + the shocking revelation on the documentary that many "women" on the site were actually bots.
[27:01] - Jesse and I discuss how the documentary includes diverse perspectives, from a widow's forgiveness journey to insights on sin and consequences.
[28:14] - I'm currently watching AMERICA’S SWEETHEARTS with Kaitlynn, which explores the intense process of making the Dallas Cowboys cheerleader team.
[30:42] - How creating morning lists for the kids has helped our home run smoother.
[33:40] - I am offering a free download of 100 frugal fun activities for summer, available as a printable list or cut-out strips for a jar!
Links & ResourcesCrystal Paine
100 Frugal Summer Activities (freebie)
BooksRuta Sepetys (author page)

Habits for a Sacred Home: 9 Practices from History to Anchor and Restore Modern Families by Jennifer Pepito
Documentaries (All on Netflix)The Accidental Twins
Ashley Madison documentary
AMERICA’S SWEETHEARTS: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders
Social MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on LinkedIn
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com


Our Sponsors:
* Check out Outdoor Electronics: feathersnapcam.com
* Check out Seed and use my code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: seed.com


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

This week’s episode dives into a topic that many of you have asked about: how we're approaching dating with our kids. Jesse and I previously shared our general dating guidelines, but as our teens have gotten older, we wanted to share more that we've learned as we have put those principles into practice in real-time.
I recently touched on our approach to dating on Instagram, and it sparked some lively (and controversial) conversations, so join Jesse and I today as we dive even deeper into our experiences and how we have adjusted our guidance while respecting our kids' privacy and autonomy.
Jesse and I share our philosophy that dating should be intentional and mindful, and we have encouraged our kids to view dating as a way to get to know someone with the potential for a serious, long-term relationship, rather than just a casual activity. We discuss how we've balanced setting boundaries without being overly controlling, allowing our kids to make their own decisions while we support them through their journeys, having found that this approach not only respects their autonomy but also helps them develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships.
We also talk about the importance of observing someone's character over time and in various situations. Seeing how someone reacts in different scenarios, such as in competitive sports or when things don't go their way, can reveal a lot about their true nature, and this can be very important for making informed decisions about whether to pursue a deeper relationship.
In addition to talk about dating, we also share some fun life updates -- like our roller coaster Father's Day, a trip to Mississippi for Silas' baseball tournament, our new coffee maker, watching the Olympics trials, and a freebie to help you get dinner on the table on busy nights. 
In This Episode
[0:35] - Jesse and I are talking more about what we're learning with walking with our kids through dating and relationships.
[2:13] - Hear all about Jesse's unexpected Father's Day and how we narrowly avoided a trip to the ER.
[13:26] - We have enjoyed watching the Olympic trials with our daughter Kierstyn, who is excited about various sports, especially gymnastics.
[15:19] - Hear some listener feedback which includes a request for the audiobook library link.
[16:52] - I share a listener's observation about the use of "sofa" versus "couch" in an earlier episode. Which do you say?
[19:28] - I have been reading and loving Natalie Runion's book The House That Jesus Built.
[21:08] - Tune in for an exciting announcement about a freebie with 60 quick meal ideas to replace takeout!
[22:37] - Our views on dating and why we encourage our kids to wait until they are ready to think longterm.
[24:19] - Start conversations about boundaries, respect for our bodies and others, and the beauty of marriage early.
[27:20] - Why we don't think you should date someone you wouldn't consider marrying.
[31:00] - Jesse reflects on our daughters appreciating the intentional approach to dating.
[33:31] - Observe people in various contexts to gauge their true character before committing to a relationship.
[35:10] - The other biggest thing is praying daily for our children's relationships, seeking God's guidance for clear direction.
Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineThe Crystal Paine Show - 137. Dating vs. Courtship: Our honest thoughtsThe Crystal Paine Show - 215. Hope and Healing from Church Hurt & DisappointmentEveryday Reading: How to Get Free Out-Of-State Library Cards60 Meals to Make Instead of Getting TakeoutBooksThe House That Jesus Built: Leading Our Churches Back to God’s Original Blueprint by Natalie RunionSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook groupcrystal@moneysavingmom.com

Our Sponsors:
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Well, we recorded this episode at the latest time we've ever recorded a podcast episode -- past 10 p.m.! We found a window of time to record this before our family trip to Missouri to pick up Silas from camp, followed by his big baseball tournament in Mississippi!
Jesse has been getting up at 6:00 a.m. to hit the CrossFit gym again, which has been a fantastic start to his days, although it certainly makes 10 p.m. feel like midnight! :)
In a recent episode, Jesse and I discussed our goals for the summer, and I am thrilled to share that I'm making some great progress, especially with tracking everything on the Strides app! For the first time, my goal of spending 1,000 hours outside this year is in the green (summer and baseball make it much easier to be outdoors more!)
I am also on track with my reading goal and am aiming to finish fifty books by the end of the summer, I have already finished almost ten, and it's only June! (Plus, my annual goal is seventy-five, so if I actually finish 50 this summer, I'll be well ahead of schedule!)
Jesse and I also discuss how our slowed-down summer theme has allowed us more family movie nights. We watched The Boys in the Boat, a beautifully crafted film based on true events, and The Challenger: The Final Flight, a riveting documentary on Netflix about the 1986 Challenger disaster. I vaguely remember the tragedy from my childhood but learned a lot that I don't remember about the events surrounding it since I was so young.
We also discuss something that resonated with me this summer - whether our routines and goals serve us or enslave us. For example, running 100 miles this summer has been a positive challenge for me. It’s a time for prayer, thinking, and even playing brain games like Connections from The New York Times while I run. It’s been beneficial rather than burdensome as it might be for some others. Asking ourselves as we create routines or set goals: "Will this serve us or enslave us?" Can be a really insightful question!
In This Episode
[0:36] - This is the latest that we’ve ever recorded an episode - it's after 10 p.m.!
[1:44] - Jesse’s morning routine of starting with a cold shower and workout significantly impacts his day.
[3:36] - I am excited that my summer goals are progressing well, with significant improvement in outdoor hours!
[4:41] - An update on how I'm doing on my reading goals for the summer.
[5:45] - We have enjoyed films like The Boys in the Boat and Challenger: The Final Flight this summer.
[8:44] - I reflect on how watching Challenger: The Final Flight revealed surprising details and life lessons about decision-making.
[11:31] - A listener thanks us for introducing Ruta Sepetys' books and recommends A Higher Call.
[12:54] - I recently finished Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots by Mary Marantz which resonated with my journey of confronting perfectionism.
[15:53] - A friend inspired me with her unscheduled summer approach, although I do need a routine to slow down.
[17:24] - Do your routines serve you or enslave you?
[19:09] - I've been enjoying playing the Connections game during my runs because it keeps my mind engaged.
[20:41] - I personally cherish my time running, when I pray and think freely; it's liberating to me, not confining.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Strides app
Stacy Myers’ Instagram Page
Connections - Word Game
Films
The Boys in the Boat (Amazon Prime)
Challenger: The Final Flight (Netflix)

Books
Ruta Sepetys (author page)

A Higher Call: An Incredible True Story of Combat and Chivalry in the War-Torn Skies of World War II by Adam Makos & Larry Alexander
Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots: Finding Grace, Freedom, and Purpose in an Overachieving World by Mary Marantz
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com


Ou

This week's podcast episode covers a much-requested topic: our favorite audiobooks! Summer is a great time for reading and listening to more books -- especially with road trips and/or just a slower schedule. And if you listen regularly to the podcast, you know we love audiobooks.
Whether you’re looking for a way to pass time while cleaning, cooking, or driving or you prefer listening to reading, this episode is packed with our favorite 20+ audiobooks to add to your listening library!
I managed to narrow my list down to 20 (okay, maybe a few more) and then Jesse shares some of his favorite series, too. We share a wide range of books -- including my favorite book on habits, a book that inspired me to want to visit all the national parks, captivating fiction, eye-opening historical narratives, and more!
We also share how we find time to listen to audiobooks, when we listen to audiobooks, and how we listen to audiobooks. And we share how we never pay for audiobooks!
In This Episode[0:35] - Jesse and I are diving into our favorite audiobooks and sharing 20+ recommendations!
[2:59] - We use the Libby app to listen to audiobooks on my phone (+ when I listen to them!)
[4:53] - I start by recommending Lisa Wingate’s Before We Were Yours.
[5:51] - I highly recommend The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society for its engaging, well-narrated story.
[7:11] - Jesse enjoys starting a series from the beginning, like Bill O'Reilly's Killing series.
[9:39] - Next up on my list is The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris.
[10:53] - Dear Bob and Sue recounts a couple's witty, sarcastic adventures visiting all U.S. national parks.
[13:23] - Jesse enthuses over Vince Flynn’s American Assassin, which starts a series completed by other authors after his death.
[14:11] - I mention the highly popular book Atomic Habits.
[16:42] - The next audiobook on my list is The Things We Cannot Say by Kelly Rimmer.
[17:18] - Pam Jenoff’s The Orphan’s Tale explores how Jews were hidden in circuses during World War II.
[17:50] - I also mention Georgia Hunter’s We Were the Lucky Ones, which tells the true story of a Jewish family's survival during World War II.
[18:52] - Madeleine Martin’s The Last Bookshop in London is a soothing story that encourages me to read some classic works.
[19:38] - Jesse and I both enjoyed The President Is Missing and The President's Daughter for their thrilling political insights and insider details.
[20:59] - Kristin Hannah’s The Great Alone vividly depicts the harsh, isolating life in Alaska.
[22:29] - I reflect on how Shelby Van Pelt’s Remarkably Bright Creatures, featuring an octopus was unexpectedly compelling.
[23:51] - Last year's "summer book club" led me to Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys, sparking my interest in Sepetys’ other historical fiction works.
[25:22] - The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek and The Book Woman’s Daughter by Kim Michele Richardson are also compelling.
[27:49] - For younger kids, I recommend the Little House on the Prairie series, great for both reading and listening!
Links & Resources
Crystal PaineLibby AppGoodreadsEveryday Reading: How to Get Free Out-Of-State Library CardsBooks
Before We Were Yours: A Novel by Lisa WingateThe Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society: A Novel by Mary Ann ShafferKilling Series by Bill O'ReillyThe Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather MorrisDear Bob and Sue by Matt & Karen SmithMitch Rapp Series by Vince FlynnAtomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James ClearCode Name: Lise: The True Story of the Woman Who Became WWII’s Most Highly Decorated Spy by Larry LoftisInto the Lion’s Mouth: The True Story of Dusko Popov: World War II Spy, Patriot, and the Real-Life Inspiration for James Bond by Larry LoftisThe Things We Cannot Say by Kelly RimmerThe Orphan’s Tale: A Novel by Pam JenoffWe Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia HunterThe Last Bookshop in London by Madeline MartinThe President Is Missing by James Patterso