BOOKS I’M READING

Hard Is Not The Same Thing As Bad - The Perspective Shift That Could Completely Change The Way You Mother

By Abbie Halberstadt

Reading Hard Is Not The Same Thing As Bad: The Perspective Shift That Could Completely Change The Way You Mother by Abbie Halberstadt was a deeply moving experience for me. Abbie, a homeschooling mother of ten, shares her personal journey and insights into the challenges and joys of motherhood.

One story in particular about a foster mom made me cry—it captured the raw emotions, sacrifices, and deep love that come with fostering. It reminded me that even in the hardest moments, God is at work, shaping hearts and bringing purpose to every struggle.

What I also appreciated was hearing a bit from Abbie’s husband’s perspective. It was unique and refreshing to see how he views the journey of parenting and supports her, offering insights that often get overlooked. It added another layer of understanding and reminded me how important it is for partners to walk this path together, especially in the challenging and rewarding moments of fostering.

Abbie’s writing is both humorous and encouraging, yet deeply grounded in biblical truths. She challenges the cultural narrative that praises the exhausted, sarcastic version of motherhood and instead calls moms to embrace the high calling God has given them.

Each chapter offers practical action steps and reflective questions, inviting readers to rely on God’s wisdom and guidance in their own parenting journey. This book is a must-read for any mom seeking peace, purpose, and supernatural growth in the trenches of motherhood, especially those of us walking the foster care path.

Read it now: 👉🏻 Hard Is Not The Same Thing As Bad: The Perspective Shift That Could Completely Change The Way You Mother

FEATURED BLOG POST

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Our Journey

After ten years of fostering, we’ve truly seen it all, the joys, the challenges, the heart-stretching moments, and the unexpected lessons along the way. This month, as we reflect on our foster care journey, we’re revisiting a post that really resonates with that journey: How to Get Started as a Foster Parent.

In this post, we take a closer look at what it really takes to become a licensed foster parent. From navigating the paperwork and training to preparing emotionally for the ups and downs, it gives a realistic picture of the journey. It’s not always easy, and sometimes it’s downright messy, but it’s also full of hope, love, and growth, for both the children and the families who open their hearts.

Whether you’re just curious about fostering, considering it for the first time, or looking for encouragement along the way, this post is packed with insight and practical guidance. It’s a reminder that every challenge comes with a reward and every difficult moment is part of a bigger, beautiful picture.

👉🏻 Read the full post here: How to Get Started as a Foster Parent 

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Say It With a Card — the Perfect “Just Because” For Foster Families

Finding the right words to encourage a foster parent, celebrate a placement, or honor an adoption can feel tricky. That’s why I designed the Foster Parent Greeting Card right here at Soapbox Studio, to help you share love and support in a way that truly speaks to the heart.

Each card is beautifully crafted with foster families in mind, making it easy to say you’re seen, you matter, and you’re making a difference. 

You can find these cards on Amazon, but if you’re part of an agency or foster parent resource center, I’d love to offer them to you at a huge discount - basically just covering shipping (available within the continental U.S.).

Bulk pricing:

• 5 cards: $10

• 10 cards: $15

• 25 cards: $20

For larger quantities or to place an order, please email [email protected].

Let’s keep spreading encouragement — one card at a time. ❤️