Summary: I love and hate stuff.<br> Almost daily, the boys hear me grumble as I walk through the house picking up all. the. things.<br> Yes, I am very grateful for the blessings God has given us. But often I wonder if “more” actually robs us of joy — the management of stuff taking priority over enjoying life.<br> It’s not just our home that’s cluttered. As the end of the school year approaches the calendar seems stuffed, too.<br> We could talk for days about my cluttered mind. . .<br> Today’s podcast guest is <a href="http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/" target="_blank">Ruth Soukup</a>, New York Times Best Selling author of the book, “Unstuffed”**. She gets to the heart of why our lives can be overwhelming and full. Ruth clearly states she is not a de-cluttering expert, but a fellow journeyer. Helping us come up with simple solutions for challenges and redirecting our focus on what matters most.<br> <br> <br> <br> <br> Ruth and I have a fun time laughing and commiserating in this episode. We jump from topic to topic, things like: the challenge of managing our kid’s stuff, keeping junk out of our houses, and avoiding a ‘do it yourself’ mindset. (Oh, and Cabbage Patch Dolls, of course).<br> We also spend time talking about the “Basic Rules of Real Relationships”. I mention a chart in the book which helps friends discuss relationship imbalances. On the chart Ruth gives terms and conversation starters for when friendships are struggling. With the goal of helping develop grace and depth in relationships.<br> Lastly, I appreciate Ruth vulnerably sharing a hard part of her past. With her boldness, my hope is you find a sister who understands the weight of this world. Who has found God to be faithful and experienced the truth of knowing who she is in Him when all else is goes away.<br> Ruth has written a wonderful resource in this book. AND she has a great giveaway you’ll want to check out on her site. You could win a $2,500 closet makeover from ClosetMaid! (Giveaway ends April 20th). Check out more details <a href="http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/2016/04/07/win-unstuffed-closet-dreams/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br> <br> Connect with Ruth:<br> <br> <br> <br> <br> <a href="http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/"></a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/LivingWellSpendingLess" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ruthsoukup/" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RuthSoukup" target="_blank"></a><br> <br> <br> <br> <br> What we chat about:<br> <br> * How clutter in any area of our life (home, mind, soul) can cause meltdowns<br> * Why we have the increased urge to de-clutter in Spring.<br> * Managing your kids’ stuff and how personality contributes.<br> * 3 ways to stop the flow of stuff coming in your home.<br> * How a “do it yourself” mentality contributes to added life clutter.<br> * Ruth’s vulnerable story of battling depression–which includes suicide attempts, hospitalization, bankruptcy and divorce.<br> * Evaluating friendships and growing in grace and depth.<br> <br> Links Mentioned:<br> <br> * “Unstuffed” book**<br> * KonMari Method from “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up”**<br> * Read more details about <a href="http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/2012/02/29/amazing-grace-my-story-part-1/" target="_blank">Ruth’s Amazing Grace story here</a><br> * If you struggle with depression/suicidal thoughts, please speak with a friend, counselor, pastor, or call the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).<br> <br> **Amazon affiliate link<br> <br> How to listen to the podcast:<br> 1.Listen on the blog. Click through to <a title="gcm" href="http://godcenteredmom.com/" target="_blank">GodCenteredMom.</a>
