Today we’re cracking the spine of Karen’s newest book, Survival Guide to Motherhood. Karen shares insightful excerpts from the opening chapters, exploring the ideas that kids develop like Crock-Pots, joy is a choice, and moms are the CEOs of their homes. Grab your copy of Survival Guide today. Check the show notes for the link.Episode Recap:3:17 Survival Guide to Motherhood is available for pre-order9:58 Process of recording the audiobook version13:25 Moms all want to “get it right” and we all want someone to walk alongside us16:43 Kids are like Crock-Pots21:19 Joy is a choice24:20 Moms, you are the boss of your home26:25 You’re not in control (God is!) but you can control the atmosphere in your homeQuestions for Discussion:Reflecting on Karen's analogy that kids are like crock pots, how have you seen your child's growth and maturity reflect the concept that progress takes time, much like a slow-cooked meal? Is there something going on right now with a child where you are finding it hard to be patient with their slow maturation process? Is it easy for you to “choose joy” in your day to day situation right now? Can you share a time when choosing joy made a difference in your approach to a difficult situation with your children or spouse?In what ways do you see yourself as the "boss" of your home, and how does this influence your daily decision-making?Can you share an example of a time when taking charge in your household led to a positive outcome for your family?Resources:Pre-order Karen’s all-new Survival Guide to Motherhood today! Orders ship July 30th: https://amzn.to/3Vr7LlDWant to bring Karen to speak in your community? Reach out: https://www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms  and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms