HER HOME & HEART / Simplifying Routines for Overwhelmed Christian Homeschool Moms Seeking Peace and Joy

Katie Keene, Homeschool Strategy Coach, Special Needs Homeschool Mentor, Overwhelm Reducer, Christian Motherhood Mentor, Holistic Living Guru
  • 5.0 (173)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Simplifying Routines for Overwhelmed Christian Homeschool Moms Seeking Peace and Joy ★ TOP 1% Parenting + Family Life Podcast ★ Do you ever feel like your days are a whirlwind of lesson plans, laundry, and "Mom, can you help me?" moments? You're juggling homeschooling, faith, and the everyday chaos of motherhood — and sometimes, it can feel overwhelming, especially when life doesn’t look as “perfect” as you imagined. But what if you could simplify your routines, reduce the chaos, and build a joyful, faith-filled home that nurtures your family's heart? This podcast is for you, mama! I'm Katie Keene — Christian homeschool mom of 5, lover of simple systems, and passionate about helping moms create peaceful homes rooted in faith. Each week, I’ll share practical tips, Biblical encouragement, and real-life rhythms to help you thrive — not just survive — as you balance homeschooling, homemaking, and heart work. We embrace a love-of-learning lifestyle inspired by heart-centered homeschooling methods like Charlotte Mason, Unschooling, Classical, Special Needs homeschooling, and peaceful eclectic approaches — always adapted to fit your unique family and season. If you're ready to ditch overwhelm, embrace grace, and build a homeschool and home life you love (without losing your joy), you're in the right place. 🎙️ Press play, grab your tea, and let’s create simpler, happier days together. — Love this podcast and want to help other mamas find it? Leave a review on your favorite podcast app and share the love! 💛 ✨ Connect with Katie: hello@herhomeandheart.com ✨ All the INSIDER goodies for you: https://bit.ly/m/HerHomeandHeart

  1. “I Feel Like I'm the Only One Doing Everything”: Reset Your Chore System So the Kids Actually Help // 317

    4D AGO

    “I Feel Like I'm the Only One Doing Everything”: Reset Your Chore System So the Kids Actually Help // 317

    Do you ever feel like you’re the only one doing everything—again? You’ve even tried chore charts. You’ve talked, asked, begged. But somehow… the crumbs are still there. The socks multiply. And no one else seems to notice. I’ve been there too. And I want to gently walk with you through this. In this episode of Her Home and Heart, I’ll share: A vulnerable moment when I felt unseen after years of trying to keep our home going The two chore systems that truly helped us (after trying so many!) How I used FlyLady’s gentle structure to reset our routines with grace What happened when I fell ill and realized my kids had learned so much more than I thought How you can start (or restart) a simple system that works—without becoming the nag or the martyr This isn’t about doing it all. It’s about doing it together. Let’s release the guilt, quiet the resentment, and build a home where everyone plays a part—one step at a time. With grace and practical help, Katie P.S. And if you need encouragement that chore training matters, I highly recommendthis article from The Atlantic. ❤️ Katie 🌟 Mentioned in This Episode: 📚 Road Trip Mysteries USA Edition – A story‑driven cross‑country adventure packed with puzzles, mystery, history, and geography. Perfect for ages 8–12, screen‑free fun, and available in softcover or Kindle. 📚 Road Trip Mysteries Yellowstone Edition – Explore the wonders of Yellowstone National Park through an interactive mystery adventure! Kids follow clues, learn about geysers, wildlife, and history, and unlock a final code to earn their Legacy Keeper badge. Available in softcover or Kindle. 🎉 Join Our Free Community – Homeschool Lifestyle for Christian Families 💬 Energy Boost SECRET for moms: Peak Energy Solution Activation and Energy   Other Episodes You Might Enjoy: Here’s the updated version of the “Other Episodes You Might Enjoy” list — now fully aligned with the theme and message of Episode #317: “I Feel Like I'm the Only One Doing Everything”: Reset Your Chore System for Sanity and Support 🌟 Other Episodes You Might Enjoy 📌 #231 – From Drowning in To-Dos to Celebrating Wins: 1 Simple Shift for Moms Feeling stretched thin? This episode helps you reframe your mindset so you can experience more peace and progress each day. 📌 #285 – Feeling Scattered? 8 Micro-Routines Every Mom Needs Gentle, repeatable systems that can anchor your days and support your family—especially when you feel pulled in all directions. 📌 #295 – The 10-Minute Morning Reset That Changes Everything Pair this with Episode #317 to create peace and momentum—starting first thing in the morning. 📌 #310 – “Everything Is Loud. I Can’t Think. I Feel Paralyzed”: How to Create Peace When Life Feels Too Loud If noise, chaos, or clutter is overstimulating your mind, this episode will help you reset your nervous system and regain calm. 📌 #308 – How to Declutter Without Getting Overwhelmed: A Gentle Plan for Christian Moms Clutter makes everything harder. Use this peaceful approach to clear space and lighten your load—without the stress. 💡 Please Leave a Review: If this episode encouraged you, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps so much! GIFT: 10 Secrets To Homeschooling Your High Needs Child (WITHOUT Losing Your Mind) LOVE Homeschooling Your Special Needs Child MORE GOODIES and FUN THINGS! Escaping OVERWHELM - Landing Page herhomeandheart.com

    15 min
  2. “Everything Is Loud. I Can’t Think. I Feel Paralyzed”: Simple Tools for Peace in a Noisy, Overwhelming Home// 316

    AUG 20

    “Everything Is Loud. I Can’t Think. I Feel Paralyzed”: Simple Tools for Peace in a Noisy, Overwhelming Home// 316

    Does your brain ever feel like it’s buzzing before you’ve even had your coffee? If your homeschool days are filled with noise, clutter, constant motion, and mental overwhelm, and your inner world feels just as chaotic, this episode is for you. I remember a day when I felt completely paralyzed by the noise in my life—until something surprising helped me reset. Today, I’m sharing that story and what I’ve learned since, so you can find a moment of peace right where you are. You’ll learn how external and internal “noise” impact your mind, your mood, and your ability to parent with clarity. Plus, I’ll walk you through simple sensory resets—like calming music, noise boundaries, and body-based strategies—to restore your nervous system, even in a loud home. 💛 This episode will help you breathe again… and begin again. XOXO, ❤️ Katie 🌟 Mentioned in This Episode: 📚 Road Trip Mysteries USA Edition – A story‑driven cross‑country adventure packed with puzzles, mystery, history, and geography. Perfect for ages 8–12, screen‑free fun, and available in softcover or Kindle. 📚 Road Trip Mysteries Yellowstone Edition – Explore the wonders of Yellowstone National Park through an interactive mystery adventure! Kids follow clues, learn about geysers, wildlife, and history, and unlock a final code to earn their Legacy Keeper badge. Available in softcover or Kindle. 🎉 Join Our Free Community – Homeschool Lifestyle for Christian Families 💬 Energy Boost SECRET for moms: Peak Energy Solution Activation and Energy 🌟 Other Episodes You’ll Love 📌 #284 – Clutter or Chaos? 3 Reasons You Can’t Declutter (And What to Do Instead) Overwhelm and visual chaos are connected. This episode unpacks the hidden obstacles and clears the way for peace. 📌 #285 – Feeling Scattered? 8 Micro-Routines Every Mom Needs These quick routines offer powerful support to anchor your family and homeschool day. 📌 #295 – The 10-Minute Morning Reset That Changes Everything Pair this with today's episode to create peace and momentum—starting in the morning. 📌 #306 – The Overwhelmed Mom’s Simplification Plan: Rhythms, Rest, and Peace A roadmap to escape burnout using simple, sustainable rhythms that support your energy. 📌 #310 – From Resentful to Recharged: 3 Surprising Ways to Reset Your Mom Brain Learn how to reset your mindset and energy with simple practices that help you feel like yourself again. 💡 Please Leave a Review: If this episode encouraged you, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps so much! GIFT: 10 Secrets To Homeschooling Your High Needs Child (WITHOUT Losing Your Mind) LOVE Homeschooling Your Special Needs Child MORE GOODIES and FUN THINGS! Escaping OVERWHELM - Landing Page herhomeandheart.com

    16 min
  3. “I Love Homeschooling, But I Hate the Way Our Days Feel”: Build a Daily Rhythm That Actually Works // 315

    AUG 13

    “I Love Homeschooling, But I Hate the Way Our Days Feel”: Build a Daily Rhythm That Actually Works // 315

    Ever feel like no matter how hard you try, you’re still behind in your homeschool day? You’re juggling all the moving parts of family life—yet the to-do list grows and the peace you imagined seems out of reach. In this episode, I share a personal story of overwhelm and offer a simple way to bring calm and clarity to your homeschool and family flow. You’ll learn the difference between anchors (steady points in your day) and rhythms (the flexible flow around them), and how they work together to create a more peaceful home atmosphere. Whether your current routine feels too rigid or too chaotic, this gentle habit-building approach can help you reset with confidence. ❤️ Katie 🌟 Mentioned in This Episode: 📚 Road Trip Mysteries USA Edition – A story‑driven cross‑country adventure packed with puzzles, mystery, history, and geography. Perfect for ages 8–12, screen‑free fun, and available in softcover or Kindle. 📚 Road Trip Mysteries Yellowstone Edition – Explore the wonders of Yellowstone National Park through an interactive mystery adventure! Kids follow clues, learn about geysers, wildlife, and history, and unlock a final code to earn their Legacy Keeper badge. Available in softcover or Kindle. 🎉 Join Our Free Community – Homeschool Lifestyle for Christian Families 💬 Energy Boost SECRET for moms: Peak Energy Solution Activation and Energy 🌟 Other Episodes You’ll Love 📌 #163 – Homeschool Tutorials vs. Homeschool Co-ops: Which One Fits Your Family Best? Clarify your educational rhythm and choose what fits your family dynamic best. 📌 #169 – 5 Steps to Nurturing Strong Sibling Relationships with Charlotte Mason Principles Build peace and connection into your daily routine through relationship-centered rhythms. 📌 #231 – From Drowning in To-Do’s to Celebrating Wins: 1 Simple Mindset Shift A simple inner shift that helps reduce overwhelm and bring joy into your rhythm. 📌 #285 – Feeling Scattered? 8 Micro-Routines Every Mom Needs These quick routines offer powerful support to anchor your family and homeschool day. 📌 #295 – The 10-Minute Morning Reset That Changes Everything Pair this with today's episode to create peace and momentum—starting in the morning. 💡 Please Leave a Review: If this episode encouraged you, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps so much! GIFT: 10 Secrets To Homeschooling Your High Needs Child (WITHOUT Losing Your Mind) http://herhomeandheart.net/specialneeds MORE GOODIES and FUN THINGS! https://bit.ly/m/HerHomeandHeart herhomeandheart.com

    20 min
  4. "I’m Always Behind—No Matter How Hard I Try": Gentle Habits for Family and Homeschool Peace // 314

    AUG 6

    "I’m Always Behind—No Matter How Hard I Try": Gentle Habits for Family and Homeschool Peace // 314

    Have you ever looked at the clock at 2:00 PM and realized—yet again—you haven’t started math? You’re doing all the things, but nothing ever feels like enough. I’ve been there. I was juggling medical appointments, babies 16 months apart, portfolio requirements, and never-ending laundry. I lived in a constant state of anxiety, never feeling caught up or good enough. I knew something had to change, but I didn’t want a rigid schedule that would just make me feel like more of a failure. That’s when I discovered the power of anchor-based rhythms—and it completely shifted the way our homeschool flowed. In this episode, I’ll show you the 3 anchor points that gently shape our day and how they brought our family more peace (without adding more to my plate). If you’ve been chasing a perfect routine, let me show you a better way—one that works with your real life, not against it. I even included 3 bonus tools—like loop scheduling and the Daily 3—to make this so doable, even on hard days. ❤️ Katie 🌟 Mentioned in This Episode: 📚 Road Trip Mysteries USA Edition – A story‑driven cross‑country adventure packed with puzzles, mystery, history, and geography. Perfect for ages 8–12, screen‑free fun, and available in softcover or Kindle. 📚 Road Trip Mysteries Yellowstone Edition – Explore the wonders of Yellowstone National Park through an interactive mystery adventure! Kids follow clues, learn about geysers, wildlife, and history, and unlock a final code to earn their Legacy Keeper badge. Available in softcover or Kindle. 🎉 Join Our Free Community – Homeschool Lifestyle for Christian Families 💬 Energy Boost SECRET for moms: Peak Energy Solution Activation and Energy   Other Episodes You Might Enjoy: #163 – Homeschool Tutorials vs. Homeschool Co-ops: Which One is Right for You? — A helpful look at homeschool rhythms and how your schedule impacts learning. #169 – 5 Steps to Nurturing Strong Sibling Relationships with Lasting Peace — How habits and intentional routines strengthen your family’s connections. #231 – From Drowning in To-Dos to Celebrating Wins: 1 Simple Shift for Moms — Using rhythms to restore peace when life feels chaotic. #285 – Feeling Scattered? 8 Micro-Routines Every Mom Needs — Simple, repeatable systems to keep your home and homeschool running smoothly. #295 – The 10-Minute Morning Reset That Changes Everything — A short, impactful habit to start your day with clarity and peace. 💡 Please Leave a Review: If this episode encouraged you, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps so much! GIFT: 10 Secrets To Homeschooling Your High Needs Child (WITHOUT Losing Your Mind) http://herhomeandheart.net/specialneeds MORE GOODIES and FUN THINGS! https://bit.ly/m/HerHomeandHeart herhomeandheart.com

    23 min
  5. 3 Secrets of Good Habits: A Simple Charlotte Mason Principle That Makes Homeschooling and Family Life Easier and Happier (Summer Throwback) // 313

    JUL 30

    3 Secrets of Good Habits: A Simple Charlotte Mason Principle That Makes Homeschooling and Family Life Easier and Happier (Summer Throwback) // 313

    Ever feel like your homeschool days are barely held together by coffee and duct tape? I’ve been there. And I’ve discovered something that changed everything: the foundation of peace and progress isn’t a perfect curriculum—it’s habit formation—for our kids and ourselves. In this “Summer Throwback” episode, I’m opening up about how the Charlotte Mason approach to habits has helped our family navigate military life, special needs parenting, and everyday chaos. We’ll dive into how to start small, set realistic expectations, and use habit training to create consistency and peace. If you’ve been craving more peaceful homeschool days, less yelling, and a family rhythm that works, this one’s for you ❤️ Katie 🌟 Mentioned in This Episode: 📚 The Road Trip Mysteries – Explore Fun Learning! https://www.amazon.com/Road-Trip-Mysteries-Yellowstone/dp/B0FH9VPT38/ref=sr_1_1?crid=36LVJ98LLA0N0&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.BRuKHdXeKZDkeu0dF3ufQ-5FAV2xn4FBGEMHtQvXZjrLHovmxZGN_cD6lS-kiSpZdW9NGUS7h0xJj72KxYUOSeO-lq0QtYVfwxxWR3JgMwD4OVq0GzAmL9rAHzDXKgRP.TNmgMEUz5zUp9MtPAgNgWDgNpP0nZs7_iuBdeGt9w0k&dib_tag=se&keywords=road+trip+mysteries+yellowstone&qid=1753233515&sprefix=road+trip+mysteries+yellowstone%2Caps%2C79&sr=8-1 🎉 Join Our Free Community – Homeschool Lifestyle for Christian Families 💬 Energy Boost SECRET for moms: Peak Energy Solution Activation and Energy Related Charlotte Mason Episodes:#161,#163,#175,#179,#180,#182 💡 Please Leave a Review: If this episode encouraged you, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps so much! GIFT: 10 Secrets To Homeschooling Your High Needs Child (WITHOUT Losing Your Mind) http://herhomeandheart.net/specialneeds MORE GOODIES and FUN THINGS! https://bit.ly/m/HerHomeandHeart herhomeandheart.com

    23 min
  6. The Notebook That Helped Me Survive Overwhelm — A Simple System for Peaceful Days (Summer Throwback) // 312

    JUL 23

    The Notebook That Helped Me Survive Overwhelm — A Simple System for Peaceful Days (Summer Throwback) // 312

    If you’ve ever felt completely overwhelmed by motherhood—juggling appointments, trying to homeschool, and holding everything together without help—this episode is for you. In this Summer Throwback, I’m sharing the simple, grace-filled system I created during a season of solo parenting and total exhaustion. When my husband was deployed and I was managing therapies, special diets, and daily life with little ones, I didn’t need a fancy planner—I needed a lifeline. So I made a three-ring notebook with basic daily checklists, snack ideas, therapy notes, and even encouraging Scripture. It wasn’t perfect, but it became my sanity-saver. You’ll also hear how this tool brought calm to our home and made space for connection, rest, and joy—things I never thought possible in that season. Whether you’re drowning in to-dos, managing special needs, or just craving a little more peace, this episode offers practical encouragement to help you simplify and breathe again. 📖 “The wise woman builds her house…” (Proverbs 14:1) Let’s build homes of peace—even in imperfect seasons—with small tools that make a big difference. With love and grace, Katie 🌟 Mentioned in This Episode: 📚 The Road Trip Mysteries – Explore Fun Learning! https://www.amazon.com/Road-Trip-Mysteries-Yellowstone/dp/B0FH9VPT38/ref=sr_1_1?crid=36LVJ98LLA0N0&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.BRuKHdXeKZDkeu0dF3ufQ-5FAV2xn4FBGEMHtQvXZjrLHovmxZGN_cD6lS-kiSpZdW9NGUS7h0xJj72KxYUOSeO-lq0QtYVfwxxWR3JgMwD4OVq0GzAmL9rAHzDXKgRP.TNmgMEUz5zUp9MtPAgNgWDgNpP0nZs7_iuBdeGt9w0k&dib_tag=se&keywords=road+trip+mysteries+yellowstone&qid=1753233515&sprefix=road+trip+mysteries+yellowstone%2Caps%2C79&sr=8-1 🎉 Join Our Free Community – Homeschool Lifestyle for Christian Families 💬 Energy Boost SECRET for moms: Peak Energy Solution Activation and Energy 💡 Leave a Review: If this episode encouraged you, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps so much! GIFT: 10 Secrets To Homeschooling Your High Needs Child (WITHOUT Losing Your Mind) http://herhomeandheart.net/specialneeds MORE GOODIES and FUN THINGS! https://bit.ly/m/HerHomeandHeart herhomeandheart.com

    15 min
  7. 3 Simple Hacks to Make Summer Outings Easier (Summer Throwback) // 311

    JUL 16

    3 Simple Hacks to Make Summer Outings Easier (Summer Throwback) // 311

    If you’ve ever found yourself scrambling to pack the car while the kids melt down and the clock ticks louder, you are sonot the only one. I’ve lived through the stress of prepping for family outings—beach trips, road trips, field trips—and I know how exhausting it can be when you’re trying to remember everything, especially as a Christian homeschool mom juggling special needs, medical gear, or just the everyday chaos of motherhood. In today’s Summer Throwback episode, I’m sharing 3 tried-and-true packing systems that have helped me simplify family adventures for years. These simple hacks saved my sanity when my hands were full and my brain felt fried—and they still work, even now that our family’s needs have grown more complex. Whether you're heading out for a homeschool field trip, a summer vacation, or just a spontaneous afternoon at the park, these easy routines will help you get out the door with less stress, less decision fatigue, and more peace. I’ll show you how to build “grab-and-go” bags, streamline mealtime prep, and create a rhythm that truly works—even when life throws curveballs. This is a practical, heartfelt episode packed with tips you can use right away. Let’s ditch the chaos and create systems that serve our family’s unique needs—so you can enjoy your summer, not just survive it. 💛 With love and grace, Katie 📌 In This Episode:3 packing hacks for busy Christian moms (that work even with medical needs) A “grab-n-go” bag system to prep once and relax later Smart snack strategies for road trips, park days, and homeschool outings Why simplifying your routines gives you more mental space for what matters most 📖 Verse of the Week:“Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” — Proverbs 16:3 (ESV) ✨ Listener Love?If this episode brought peace or inspiration to your heart, would you take 60 seconds to leave a quick review or share it with a friend? Your support helps more mamas find this show. 💛 With love, Katie 🌟 Mentioned in This Episode: 📚 The Road Trip Mysteries – Explore Fun Learning! 🎉 Join Our Free Community – Homeschool Lifestyle for Christian Families 💬 Energy Boost SECRET for moms: Peak Energy Solution Activation and Energy 💡 Leave a Review: If this episode encouraged you, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps so much! GIFT: 10 Secrets To Homeschooling Your High Needs Child (WITHOUT Losing Your Mind) http://herhomeandheart.net/specialneeds MORE GOODIES and FUN THINGS! https://bit.ly/m/HerHomeandHeart herhomeandheart.com

    11 min
  8. Batch Like a Boss Mom: 6 Stress Free Cooking Tips That Save Time and Sanity (Summer Throwback) // 310

    JUL 9

    Batch Like a Boss Mom: 6 Stress Free Cooking Tips That Save Time and Sanity (Summer Throwback) // 310

    Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed at dinnertime? Whether you're homeschooling, managing special diets, or just trying to feed your family without losing your mind—this Summer Throwback episode is packed with practical batch cooking tips every busy mom needs. I’m sharing how I learned to batch cook during my husband’s deployment, why it saved my sanity as our family grew, and how you can easily start—even if you’re exhausted, short on time, or have picky eaters and food allergies in the mix. From freezer meals to pre-prepped snacks, from seasonal menus to grocery list systems, this episode walks you through the real-life strategies that helped me stop scrambling and start enjoying peaceful, nourishing meals with my family. You’ll learn: How to double or triple your current recipes for easy freezer storage Simple labeling and organization tricks to beat decision fatigue Smart snack-prepping hacks to save your sanity during summer or holidays How to batch prep for travel, medical weeks, and busy homeschool days Why making seasonal menus and reusable grocery lists is a total game changer Even how to save money by growing and freezing your own fresh herbs If you're craving less chaos and more peace around meals, this episode will encourage you with doable, grace-filled systems you can start right away. You don’t need fancy tools or more time—you just need a few smart strategies and a willingness to simplify. 🎧 Press play and discover how batch cooking can help you breathe easier and build a calmer, more joyful home—one meal at a time. With love, Katie 🌟 Explore! : 📚 The Road Trip Mysteries – Explore Fun Learning! 🎉 Join Our Free Community – Homeschool Lifestyle for Christian Families 💬 Energy Boost SECRET for moms: Peak Energy Solution Activation and Energy 💡 Leave a Review: If this episode encouraged you, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps so much! GIFT: 10 Secrets To Homeschooling Your High Needs Child (WITHOUT Losing Your Mind) http://herhomeandheart.net/specialneeds MORE GOODIES and FUN THINGS! https://bit.ly/m/HerHomeandHeart herhomeandheart.com

    18 min
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About

Simplifying Routines for Overwhelmed Christian Homeschool Moms Seeking Peace and Joy ★ TOP 1% Parenting + Family Life Podcast ★ Do you ever feel like your days are a whirlwind of lesson plans, laundry, and "Mom, can you help me?" moments? You're juggling homeschooling, faith, and the everyday chaos of motherhood — and sometimes, it can feel overwhelming, especially when life doesn’t look as “perfect” as you imagined. But what if you could simplify your routines, reduce the chaos, and build a joyful, faith-filled home that nurtures your family's heart? This podcast is for you, mama! I'm Katie Keene — Christian homeschool mom of 5, lover of simple systems, and passionate about helping moms create peaceful homes rooted in faith. Each week, I’ll share practical tips, Biblical encouragement, and real-life rhythms to help you thrive — not just survive — as you balance homeschooling, homemaking, and heart work. We embrace a love-of-learning lifestyle inspired by heart-centered homeschooling methods like Charlotte Mason, Unschooling, Classical, Special Needs homeschooling, and peaceful eclectic approaches — always adapted to fit your unique family and season. If you're ready to ditch overwhelm, embrace grace, and build a homeschool and home life you love (without losing your joy), you're in the right place. 🎙️ Press play, grab your tea, and let’s create simpler, happier days together. — Love this podcast and want to help other mamas find it? Leave a review on your favorite podcast app and share the love! 💛 ✨ Connect with Katie: hello@herhomeandheart.com ✨ All the INSIDER goodies for you: https://bit.ly/m/HerHomeandHeart

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