Dear Mama,

As we celebrate our nation's independence this Fourth of July, I'm reminded that freedom comes in many forms. Sometimes it's the big victories we celebrate with fireworks and parades, and sometimes it's the quiet daily victories we win in our homes - like finding a rhythm that works for summer, or watching our children overcome challenges we never imagined they'd face.

This week, I'm excited to share two powerful episodes that celebrate both kinds of freedom with you.

Two Episodes to Encourage Your Heart

Episode 23: Summer Self-Care Strategies for Special Needs Families Are you feeling overwhelmed by the lack of structure summer brings? Wondering how to keep everyone regulated and thriving for three whole months? This episode covers:

• Creating flexible rhythms and anchor points that provide structure without feeling rigid
• Supporting your family with natural wellness approaches including essential oils, detox baths, and nutrient-dense foods
• Building your summer support network and maintaining connections with therapists and other families
• Preparing mindfully for summer outings with sensory survival kits and backup plans
• Prioritizing intentional rest for the whole family without guilt

Episode 24: Hope Against All Odds - Bethany's Micro Preemie Survivor Story Meet Bethany Bacon, who entered this world at just 24.5 weeks in 1983 after her mother experienced 14 miscarriages. Her inspiring journey includes:

• Surviving against incredible odds with God's grace and her parents' unwavering faith
• Overcoming hydrocephalus, 15+ surgeries, and ongoing health challenges
• Achieving independence through education, work experience, and now running her own business
• Creating Created-In-His-Image.com to help others discover their God-given purpose
• Sharing the powerful message: "Everyone is created for a purpose, no matter what anyone here on earth thinks or predicts"

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📖 A Fourth of July Devotional: Freedom in His Faithfulness

As we celebrate our nation's independence today, I can't help but think about the different kinds of freedom we fight for as mothers of children with special needs.

Our founding fathers declared independence from tyranny, but we declare independence from fear, from comparison, from the lie that we are not good enough mamas. We fight for the freedom to advocate fiercely, to choose natural remedies over harsh chemicals, to rest without guilt, and to believe in our children's God-given purposes even when the world says otherwise.

Just as Bethany's parents refused to give up despite overwhelming odds, and just as we create summer rhythms that honor our families' unique needs rather than conforming to everyone else's expectations, we are living out a beautiful kind of freedom - the liberty that comes from knowing we are exactly where God wants us to be.

The same God who guided our nation through its darkest hours is the same God who sits with you in the NICU, who gives you strength for the daily battles, and who has equipped you specifically to be your child's mother. He is working all things together for good, even when - especially when - we can't see it.

This week, as we watch fireworks light up the sky, let's remember that sometimes the most beautiful displays of God's glory happen in the quiet moments too - in a child's breakthrough, in a peaceful summer afternoon, in the simple act of not giving up when everything feels impossible.

Prayer

Father, thank You for the freedom we have in Christ and the freedom You give us to parent our children exactly as You intended. Help us to stand firm in Your truth when the world tries to discourage us. Give us the strength to create rhythms that honor our families, the wisdom to seek natural solutions, and the courage to rest in Your perfect timing. Like Bethany's parents, help us never to give up, knowing that You make no mistakes. In Jesus' name, Amen.

💞 Creating Community

If you haven't already, please consider join me in the Facebook group. I hope to build a safe place where Christian mama's can come to be lifted up and supported.

Question of the week: How are you surviving the summer? Let's celebrate the wins and pray through the challenges together! Reply to this email or post in the group to share!

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🌺 Wellness Corner

Summer Stress Solution: Adaptive Essential Oil

One natural remedy that has been a complete game-changer for our family's summer stress is doTERRA's Adaptive blend. Between disrupted routines, sensory overload from activities, and the general chaos that summer can bring to special needs families, stress levels tend to spike during these months.

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Here's how we use it: Always accessible: We keep Adaptive rollers in our car, diaper bag, and by our beds because it works so quickly to help everyone feel more grounded and calm Kid-approved: My daughter has even learned to ask for her "calming oil" when she's feeling overwhelmed - I love that she's developing the self-awareness to advocate for what her body needs! Versatile support: Whether we're preparing for a challenging outing or winding down after a particularly stimulating day, this blend has become our go-to for keeping our nervous systems regulated naturally Learn More

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I truly appreciate your support!

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Have a topic you want discussed? Interested in being interviewed on the podcast? Looking for natural solutions for your family? I'm just an email away! :) I'd love to hear from you!

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Share your thoughts, prayer requests, or simply connect with our growing community on Instagram @speaking_life_into_motherhood or join our private Facebook group Speaking Life Into Motherhood.​

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With love and grace,

Elyse

P.S. If this episode resonated with you, would you consider sharing it with a friend who might need it? Sometimes the greatest gift we can give another mother is the reminder that she's not alone in her struggles.

Elyse Scheeler Podcast Host of Speaking Life Into Motherhood Speech Language Pathologist, Wellness Coach, doTerra Wellness Advocate "Empowering transformations by speaking life into mind, body, and soul."