Create Your Now with Kristianne Wargo

When life gets messy — and let's be honest, it always does — both parents and kids face the terrifying question: "Where do I run first?" It's not just about geography; it's about the who and what that can catch us when we're falling apart under overwhelm and struggle. If parents don't provide a safe fallback, kids often sprint toward friends, teachers, coaches, or romantic interests — places that might get them, or might just judge and reject them. This question strips parenting to its core responsibility: Are we raising kids who know our love is a rock, not a reward? Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com Because nothing kills trust faster than transactional love — the kind that whispers, "You have to earn my care." Here's the truth: No one, at any age, wants to unload their biggest fears and failures onto someone who's counting points or judging through the lens of rigid morals and values. That's a hard pill for parents, but the stakes are high. The Mirror Effect: Kids See Through the Facade Here's the cold, clear reality — kids can sniff out if your love is real or just a performance. They notice when your affection depends on their grades, behavior, or achievements. That's a deal-breaker. Because when the chips are down, what they really need is a refuge that says: "No matter what, I'm here. I've got you." If they don't find that first at home, they'll get it somewhere else — and it might not be a place that helps them grow. So if your kid's "first run" isn't to you, that's your signal right there. The question for every parent becomes: how do we build that "go-to" foundation of unconditional love — not just in word, but in practice? The K.I.S.S. ~ Build a "go-to" foundation of unconditional love! What does it look like to build that go-to foundation in real life? Here Are 3 Non-Negotiable Moves to Show Real Unconditional Love Hold Space Without Judgment When your kid comes with bad news, a mistake, or raw emotion — lock the judgment away. Listen first. Too often, parents' knee-jerk reaction is to fix, scold, or lecture. But the first rule is this: their feelings matter, even if their choices don't. Saying "I love you no matter what" loses power if your face and words say, "I'm disappointed." Action Step: Practice saying "Help me understand what happened" instead of "Why did you do that?" Be Consistently Present, Especially When It's Hard Unconditional love isn't a fair-weather friend. It shows up during tantrums, failures, and arguments — not just when they're hitting milestones or playing the "right" role. On tough days, your presence is the lifeline that says, "You can come home to me no matter how messy you are." Action Step: Schedule one-on-one "undistracted time" weekly. No phones, no judgments—just you and your kid. Model Vulnerability and Own Your Own Imperfections When parents act like they're perfect, it builds a wall. Kids need to see that the adults they run to are human—that they mess up, learn, and grow. This cracks open the door for authentic connection and reassures kids that mistakes don't remove love. Action Step: Share a "fail" or fear with your kid and how you navigated it. Show you're not "above" them but beside them. Why This Matters More Than Ever The WHO kids run to first isn't just about immediate comfort — it shapes their whole approach to life's challenges. When parents embody unconditional love, kids learn where real refuge lives. They grow up confident to share pains, mistakes, and fears without fear of rejection or manipulation. They don't seek validation on the playground or from a partner because they know they have a home base. Parents, you must hold this responsibility tightly: your love must be a constant landing pad, not a roller coaster. That's what builds resilient, healthy humans who will carry the legacy forward. The answer to "Where do I run first?" starts at home — with you. Show up as the safe harbor, the steady heart, the unshakable yes that doesn't depend on conditions. Because at the end of the day, that's the kind of love every kid deserves — and it's the kind of parent you can be. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #ConfessionsOfAnUpsetMama #CreateYourNow #TodaysParent 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Life isn't a constant stream of roses and rainbows. More often, it's weeds choking the garden and storms darkening the sky. But from those weeds and storms come blooms and skies painted with the kind of beauty you cannot fake or force. It's no wonder it's hard to wear your smile. Maybe you're struggling to smile today? I get it. Sometimes smiling feels like a mask, like pretending everything's okay when inside you're falling apart. Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com But wearing a smile isn't about life handing you perfect cards. It's about choosing kindness, toward others and toward yourself, even when you feel broken or invisible. A smile is you saying, "I'm more than my current pain." You get to extend a piece of your heart, no matter how cracked it feels. Because your situation — no matter how heavy, difficult, or lonely — is not your identity. You are not your struggle. The K.I.S.S. ~ Wear your smile! There's a time and place for everything in life, and your smile is needed in every one of those moments. It's a quiet act of rebellion against despair. It shows you refuse to be defined by hardship. It offers others a glimpse of hope when their own skies are stormy. So wear your smile, not because life is easy, but because your kindness matters. Because even when your heart aches and your path is uncertain, you have the power to bring light, starting with that simple curve of your lips. This isn't about pretending; it's about showing up as fully you, in all your messy, brave, beautiful glory. Wear Your Smile by Kristianne Wargo Wear your smile like armor, not for the world's applause, but for the battles hidden— the quiet fights no one saw. A smile isn't sunshine lighting every shadow in your day, it's a choice to keep on shining when light feels far away. Wear your smile for the weary, for hearts worn thin and torn, a gentle bridge between the cracks, where hope is quietly born. It's not a mask of pretense, but courage bent and true, a gift you give the broken parts— a promise made by you. So wear your smile as defiance, against the stormy mile, because even in the darkness, there's power in your smile. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #Inspiration #CreateYourNow #DailyMotivation 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

You don't have to like where you are. Maybe your life feels stuck in a loop you didn't sign up for. Maybe your step feels heavy or your spirit's been whispering for a shift you haven't dared to make. Wait though! You're not trapped. Not by your past, your mistakes, or the weight of what isn't working. You get to decide how you show up each day. You get to set the tempo of your life—from what you hold onto to what you courageously let go. This is the wellspring of real well-being: the space inside where choice lives. It's not about pretending you're perfect or faking a smile. Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com It's about peeling back the layers and facing your reflection with honesty—not through the lens of selfish pride, but with the quiet strength of who you're becoming. Think about Jesus, not in the way you're used to hearing about Him, but as the purest example of someone who lived fully aligned with a divine heartbeat. He didn't show up arrogantly, demanding attention or clinging to ego. Instead, His reflection mirrored a love so deep, so unshakeable, it moved mountains. It was the reflection of a heart connected to something greater—a heart that invites us to lean in, not because we have to, but because something inside knows it's life-giving. As Lent unfolds—the season of peeling back distractions and readying our hearts—we're called to hold a mirror up to ourselves. But the question isn't "Do I look good enough?" or "Am I enough?" It's far more profound: "Am I loving myself in a way that reflects the Father's heart?" This isn't about puffing up the ego; this is about resting in the truth that you are deeply known and loved, even when the edges of your life feel jagged. The K.I.S.S. ~ Set the tempo of your life! This season is a chance to press pause and listen: What thoughts, beliefs, or patterns are running the show in you? Which ones are truly serving you? Which ones need to be rewritten or released? What does it look like for you to step into the posture of strength and surrender—choosing daily to align with love over fear, grace over judgment? You don't have to stay where you are. Even if you don't love your reflection today, there's a promise you can hold onto: love itself doesn't abandon the imperfect, the broken, or the weary. God invites you to lean in, to soften, and to become a reflection of something holy and hopeful. So as you walk through these next 40 days, dare to change the rhythm of your life. Set the tempo for what's working and bravely redefine what needs to shift. Look in the mirror and dare to love that reflection—not because it's flawless, but because it's marked by growth, grace, gratitude, and the presence of a Father who's always near. You get to choose. And that's where true well-being begins. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #WellspringWednesday #CreateYourNow #HealthAndWellness 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

It's almost springtime, and right now, the last thing on your mind might be Christmas. But there's a powerful kind of energy that Christmas brings, one that doesn't just come from tinsel or twinkling lights. It's that deep-down, can't-keep-you-down spark of happiness and purpose that ignites even when you're running on empty. Live like it's Christmas! Remember those Christmas nights? The ones where you stayed up late, exhausted but joyful, wrapping gifts, assembling toys, or setting up big surprises for your kids? Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com You did it all with a smile—even in the tiredness—because it mattered. Because giving, creating, and loving felt bigger than your fatigue. Now think about where you are: maybe it's cold, with snow keeping you inside, and the hope of spring feels distant. It's easy to get stuck in the blah-blah-blah-blah-blah of the "I'm so tired" and "when will this end?" routine. But here's the honest truth: You don't have to stay there. You get to choose—right now—how you want to feel, how you want to show up. You're stronger and more capable than you give yourself credit for. Sitting around feeling sorry or stuck only guarantees you more of the same. You get to choose. You get to create your now. The K.I.S.S. ~ Live like it's Christmas! So why not live every day like it's Christmas? Not for the presents, the parties, or the decorations—but for the gifts you deliver to the world. Your talents, your knowledge, your kindness—they're the real treasures. People around you need what you have, even if you don't realize it right now. And if you're waiting around for "happy" to knock on your door, you might be waiting a LONG time, especially when you're in one of those tough seasons. Instead, be the reason someone smiles. Invest your unique gifts. Be generous with your time, your heart, and your energy. Because Christmas isn't a date—it's a mindset. It's choosing to show up fully, even when the world feels cold and gray. Live Like It's Christmas by Kristianne Wargo When winter drapes its heavy cloak, And days stretch long in muted cold, Remember those late-night wrapping hours, Hands tired, heart wide and bold. The quiet hum of purpose near, A sparkle in the midnight air— Not gifts alone made spirits bright, But giving wrapped with love and care. So when the world feels dull and gray, And hope's a whisper on the breeze, Don't wait for joy to find your door— Give it first, and set it free. Live like it's Christmas every day, Not bound by season, date, or place, The best of life is found in gifts You give with courage, warmth, and grace. Your talent, kindness, shining light— These treasures no frost can tame, They warm the coldest rooms you know, And fan the brightest flame. So rise beyond the tired sighs, Choose joy despite your wear and tear, For in the giving, in the heart, You'll find your Christmas there. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #Inspiration #CreateYourNow #DailyMotivation 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

We build walls around ourselves, thinking they're shields—to keep others out, to guard our weaknesses and doubts. But what happens when walls don't protect you, the walls of comparison that keep you locked in? When a dream or goal demands stepping outside your comfort zone, you face more than fear or uncertainty. You face the trap of comparison. Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com We can peer at what everyone else is doing and forget what we alone bring to the table. Our gifts, talents, and unique value get left behind because we're too busy measuring ourselves against shadows, not our own path. Why do we get so stuck on what others are doing? More than we admit, it's a way to dodge accountability. When you're locked into looking at someone else's scorecards, you can blame your own stall on "not being as lucky" or "not having as many resources." It's a built-in excuse, a safety net woven from envy and doubt. Who locks the doors from the inside and throws away the key? Those who aren't satisfied with their own direction. So they focus elsewhere, and when they don't succeed, the excuse is already waiting. Worse yet, they start modeling their own attempts on someone else's timeline—never realizing that by watching others too closely, they've given up their own shot. Are you ready to stop giving up? Then unlock your walls of comparison. The K.I.S.S. ~ Unlock your walls of comparison! Breaking Free: 3 Moves To Unlock Your Walls of Comparison 1. Zero in on Your Own Scorecard. Forget everyone else's stats, timelines, or "success hacks." What does progress look like for you? And be specific with your thoughts. Be sure to celebrate the smaller wins, too, because they become your real markers. Example: Instead of scrolling through Instagram comparing your life to others', jot down three ways you've moved forward today. Own that momentum. 2. Reframe Envy into Inspiration, not Imitation. When you catch yourself thinking, "They have it all, and I don't," pause and ask: What specifically inspires me here? What purpose does this serve? Use that to fuel your own creativity, not direct you toward copying someone else's path. Example: Admire a competitor's marketing style? Take what works for you, but add your own voice and perspective. A bold tweak beats a bland copy every time. 3. Embrace the Discomfort of being "a little nervous." Nervousness means growth; uncertainty means you are stepping up. Sit with that feeling instead of retreating into comparison, which masquerades as safety but only leaves you stagnant. Example: If you're scared to pitch your offer to a client, do it anyway. The actions that scare you are often the ones that propel you forward. What Can We Learn From the Winter Olympics? Take a look at the 2026 Winter Olympics. The USA Men's Hockey Team had not won a Gold medal for 46 years. For nearly five decades, they had more silver and near misses than victories. If they had stayed stuck replaying every loss, every past failure, they would never have broken through. But they didn't! They stayed focused on each game, the day, and the goal—not the ghosts of past performance or the looming shadow of their opponent. And when it mattered most, the USA beat Canada 2-1 in overtime. Now, you might be thinking, what does this have to do with me? What's the real lesson? If athletes locked themselves inside the walls of comparison, they would never make history. Your life works the same way. You either stay imprisoned by what others have done—or you push forward, no matter the fear. Be Honest with Yourself Look honestly at your own walls of comparison. Are they holding you captive? Or are you willing to be a little nervous, shift your focus inward, and move beyond standing still? Change isn't comfortable. But comfort zones never made an Olympic Gold medalist. They made you locked inside a prison you built yourself. So tear down those walls of comparison and let your light shine! "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #MindsetMonday #CreateYourNow #PersonalDevelopment 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Too much of our lives are spent running our own race—scaling mountains, crossing rugged terrains we've never faced before—chasing after answers and strength as if we must do it all alone. We push ourselves to find solutions, to prove our worth, to reach the other side on our own terms. But what if you were to seek the Lord? What if the breakthrough isn't found in our striving or in the distant horizon? What if the source of hope and peace is much closer than we realize? Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com Isaiah 55:6 reminds us: "Seek the Lord while he may be found, call on him while he is near." This isn't some random statement; it's a life-giving truth for now. No matter the storms raging in your heart—doubts swirling, fears tightening their grip, shame whispering you're not enough—God isn't far off. He is near. Ready, waiting, drawing close to those who reach out with a willing heart. Maybe you feel stuck on a side of the mountain shadowed by past mistakes or present struggles. Maybe the climb is too steep, and the way forward isn't clear. The K.I.S.S. ~ Seek the Lord! God's nearness means you don't have to carry that burden alone. Call to Him. Seek Him. It's not about having all the answers or perfect faith; it's about taking that first step toward Him—even if it's just a whisper, a quiet hope, or a shaky prayer. God's presence brings more than comfort—it brings strength to keep going, freedom from fear, and fresh courage to face another day. God meets us in our brokenness and lifts us up with unwavering love. When you seek the Lord, you open the door to grace that changes the story you thought you were stuck in. So, stop running the race alone. Stop wrestling with doubts that make you want to hide. God's invitation stands strong: Seek Him. Call on Him. You're closer to Him than you think—and that nearness is the hope and help you need to create your now. God's got you. Always. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #SweetSpirit #CreateYourNow #SoulfulSunday 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Discomfort in a relationship is often seen as a warning sign or a problem to be avoided. But what if those uncomfortable moments, like disagreements, frustrations, and misunderstandings, are actually the very gateways to a deeper connection and more rewarding marriage? Strip away the noise and love with tethered hearts. When you strip away the noise of everyday life and the tiny irritations that pull you apart, what remains is an opportunity: a chance to grow side by side, tethered heart to heart. Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com Most couples don't realize that navigating discomfort together isn't just about surviving the storm; it's about discovering new dimensions of love, trust, and respect that weren't visible before. A love tethered to your partner's heart isn't a fairy tale—it's an achievable, powerful reality. "Love with tethered hearts" means being deeply and unwaveringly connected to your partner—emotionally, mentally, and spiritually—in a way that keeps you linked even when life gets messy or difficult. Think of it like two hearts tied together with a strong, flexible cord that stretches and moves but never breaks or lets you drift apart. It's different from the easy, surface-level love that fades at the first sign of conflict or discomfort. Instead, tethered hearts are bound by conscious commitment, trust, and understanding. You're not just living side by side; you're intentionally anchored to each other through every challenge, disagreement, and season of change. This kind of love means: Showing up fully, even when it's hard Holding space for vulnerability without judgment Choosing connection over convenience, time and again Feeling understood and accepted, not despite flaws but because of them When your hearts are tethered, discomfort isn't a wedge but a thread weaving you closer together. It's the love that outlasts passion and infatuation because it's built on something deeper and far more resilient—a bond that no storm can sever. Think about how you see your marriage now. What stands out to you? The arguments The intimacy (or lack thereof) The separation of presence The ears to hear The heart to love What if you were to stop long enough to care about your spouse like you did when you wanted to go on that first date or as you planned your dream wedding? Don't let your marriage fail because life throws everything at you. Love deeper than the ocean. The K.I.S.S. ~ Love deeper than the ocean! Love does not happen by accident. It takes a determined mind and heart to connect to another's. Yet, it's not impossible. You can have that love with tethered hearts. Here are three actions any spouse can take to deepen that tether and tap into a relationship depth like never before: Lean Into Listening (Not Fixing) When discomfort strikes, the natural reaction is to jump in with solutions, advice, or defenses. But forging a true emotional tether demands something different. It requires full, undistracted listening. Let your partner's words wash over you without planning your rebuttal or trying to "fix" things. In those moments, you communicate that their feelings matter more than the outcome. Listen to understand the heart behind the complaint or disagreement—and you'll discover truths about your partner and yourself that you never expected. Embrace Vulnerability Over Victory Too often, arguments become contests to prove who's right. But tethered hearts aren't about winning; they're about showing up authentically, even when it feels risky. Be brave enough to share your fears, doubts, and pain amidst the discomfort. Vulnerability is the bridge built with sweat and courage—cross it together and you break down walls that keep you isolated. When you can reveal your true self without fear of judgment, the bond you share strengthens and deepens. Prioritize Connection Over Convenience Life throws challenges—work stress, family demands, schedules that never stop. It's easy to get tangled in all the "stuff" and lose sight of the relationship's foundation. To tether yourself to your partner's heart, you must prioritize your connection deliberately. This means carving out moments to be fully present, to engage in rituals that remind you both why you chose each other, and to hold steady during rough patches instead of retreating or tuning out. Connection requires fuel—don't let it run on fumes. Love with tethered hearts isn't born from ease but forged in the heat of challenge and discomfort. When you commit to listening deeply, embracing vulnerability, and prioritizing your connection over convenience, you unlock a depth in your marriage few couples dare to reach. That depth becomes a sanctuary where love isn't just an emotion, but a resilient force that holds you both steady—no matter what life throws your way. You want that kind of love? Then start welcoming discomfort as the unpolished chance to grow together, not the threat that pulls you apart. The deeper your tether, the more unbreakable your bond. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #RelationshipBuilders #CreateYourNow #LoveAndMarriage 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Parenting isn't about having the loudest voice in the room or the last word every time. It's about precision, strategy, and understanding how every move impacts the next. You may be the expert, but be careful how you share the wisdom. Whether you want to admit it or not, you can learn how to win your parenting conversations better. In honor of the Olympics, I want you to think of your parenting conversations like the sport of Curling—where every stone you throw changes the "game," and success isn't guaranteed just because you have the advantage. Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com In curling, players slide heavy stones across the ice towards a target. But it's not just about strength; it's about angle, speed, timing, and subtle adjustments. If you throw a stone too hard or at the wrong angle, it can miss the target, or worse, give your opponents the chance to steal points. Parenting conversations are like those curling stones. The words you choose, the tone, and the timing all influence the outcomes in your child's mind and heart. You may have the authority, just like holding the hammer in curling gives you the last shot, but your kids can "steal" the moment, either aligning with you or pushing back, based on what you say and how you say it. Every conversation leaves a mark on the heart. You're either building trust and confidence or chipping away at their self-worth. The pressure is real, but the possibility of you winning the conversation is much greater. Take the risk, take A.I.M.! The K.I.S.S. ~ Win the conversation! The Three Moves Every Parent Can Master to Win the Conversation Game Aim With Empathy, Not Just Authority When you speak, think about the angle of your words. Are you sliding them gently to meet your child's feelings, or are you crashing the stone recklessly, ignoring what they're going through? Instead of commands or criticism, start conversations by tuning in to what your child needs emotionally. This sets a better trajectory for openness and connection, making it easier for them to engage rather than resist. Control Your Speed and Tone Curling stones require just the right velocity — too fast, and you miss; too slow, and you never get close. Likewise, your tone can either accelerate conflict or slow it down thoughtfully. Speak calmly, clearly, and with intention. Fast, harsh words might rattle your child and push them away, while steady, kind words invite them to listen and respond positively. Practice Your Release — Choose Words That Build, Not Break How you release the stone defines its path. In parenting, your word choice is your release. Positive, encouraging language can "curl" the conversation toward cooperation and trust, while negative or careless words can leave wounds that linger long after. Challenge yourself to speak in ways that affirm your child's worth, even when correcting or setting boundaries. Your Child's Heart Is the House — Protect It Like Your Last Stone Remember, parenting isn't about winning every debate or "having the last say." Your kids can and will "steal" the conversation's momentum if they feel understood and valued—or slam the door if they don't. Like curling, the best players know how to work with the ice, not just overpower it. Every chat with your child is a chance to slide a stone that builds their confidence and your relationship. When you take control of your words like a skilled curler with a perfect release, you don't just play the game — you win the hearts. You're not just throwing stones in the dark. Start aiming your words with empathy, control your tone like the speed of the slide, and release with positive intention. Your conversations will stop being battles and start becoming breakthroughs. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #ConfessionsOfAnUpsetMama #CreateYourNow #TodaysParent 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

In the rush of modern life, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters. So much of our energy flows toward chasing someone else's dream, trying to fit into others' expectations, or simply surviving the relentless pace of day-to-day routines. Consider the timeless words from Psalm 90:12 ~ "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." What does it mean to number our days? It's not some grim countdown or morbid fixation. Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com It's an invitation to live each day with intention—awareness that our time isn't infinite and should not be wasted on autopilot. Numbering our days means recognizing the value of each moment and choosing to learn the kind of wisdom that changes our hearts and shapes our lives. Why is this important? Because without intentional reflection, it's easy to drift. We slip into habits that keep us so busy, so distracted, we miss out on deeper understanding and genuine growth. We become skilled at activity but flawed in purpose. Wisdom comes not from more tasks checked off but from insightful living—a kind of maturity that flows from knowing where we've been and where we want to go. The K.I.S.S. ~ Gain a heart of wisdom! So how can we begin to number our days and open ourselves to this heart of wisdom? 1. Step out of autopilot Pause today and ask yourself: Am I present for this day, or just going through the motions? Awareness is the doorway to change. Don't wait for a crisis or a wake-up call. Lean into the discomfort of slowing down, and ask yourself what your life is teaching you right now. 2. Reflect honestly on your priorities Look at where your time goes—not just what you say is important, but the reality of your daily habits. Are you living for someone else's definition of success? Is busyness masking a deeper emptiness? When we number our days, we see clearly where to cut the clutter and make room for what truly fuels us. 3. Seek wisdom from your own experiences Every day brings lessons if we're paying attention. Don't dismiss setbacks or challenges—they are often the best teachers. Journal your thoughts, meditate on your choices, and be curious about what your life is nudging you toward. Wisdom isn't a sudden download; it's earned through reflection and learning. 4. Cultivate a heart that welcomes growth Wisdom requires humility—the willingness to admit what we don't know and to embrace new perspectives. Practice gratitude for lessons learned, even when they're tough. Be open to changing old beliefs or habits that no longer serve you. This is an invitation, not an obligation. Numbering your days isn't about guilt or pressure; it's about reclaiming your time and stepping fully into your own journey. It's about building a heart that understands what matters beneath the surface noise and fleeting distractions. The days ahead are your chance to live with intention, to gather wisdom like treasure, and to walk a path that honors your unique story. Don't let your life be measured by habits alone—let it be shaped by presence and purpose. Start today. Number your days and gain a heart of wisdom. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #Inspiration #CreateYourNow #DailyMotivation 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

In the relentless rush of daily life, it's easy to feel like we're sprinting on a treadmill set to max speed, chasing the next goal, the next move, the next achievement—only to end up overwhelmed, exhausted, and stuck in a loop of what we didn't get done. That constant hurry doesn't just steal time; it steals clarity, joy, and the chance to grow something meaningful. What if, instead of rushing, you plant your patience? What if you slowed down, dug deep, and gave yourself the permission to nurture progress with care—not speed? Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com The truth is simple but often ignored: anything worth having or becoming takes time. Success. Mastery. Healing. Connection. All these start as small seeds—fragile and tentative. They need watering, sunlight, and time to sprout and grow strong. Life gets confusing when we let the chaos of busyness control us. The tangled mess we often find ourselves in is rarely due to external forces but rather to our letting impatience lead, pushing us into frantic motion that scatters our focus and energy. Here's a new perspective: patience is not passive waiting. It's an active, powerful choice to nurture your goals thoughtfully, to respect the natural pace of growth, and to stay present in the process instead of racing toward the finish line. The K.I.S.S. ~ Plant your patience! Ready to grow your patience and watch your progress blossom? Start with these three things: Plant Belief as Your Seed Every change begins with belief—the conviction that what you want is possible and worth the time it takes. Without this foundation, patience feels like a frustrating wait. With belief, it becomes a hopeful planting, a promise to yourself that you're investing in your future. Nourish with Consistent Action, Not Instant Results Patience isn't about sitting still; it's about steady, deliberate care. Small, purposeful steps compound over time to produce growth. Celebrate the daily efforts—even when results aren't immediate—to build momentum and faith in the process. Create Space to Reflect and Adjust Growth doesn't happen in chaos. Carve out moments away from distractions to observe your progress, adjust your approach, and quiet the noise of doubt. Mindful reflection refuels patience and keeps your vision grounded. Remember: patience is a muscle you build with practice, not a fixed trait you either have or don't. The more you cultivate it, the more your progress expands naturally and powerfully. To honor this journey, here's an original poem by Kristianne Wargo that captures the magic of planting patience and believing in the impossible: Planting Patience by Kristianne Wargo Plant the seed, though the soil is bare, though the days feel slow, though no bloom is there. Water it with belief, sunlight of quiet grace, roots grow beneath— in their own time and place. Storms may come, and winds may bend, but patience is the promise that growth has no end. So slow your hurry, tend with care, great things take time— they blossom where You dare to plant patience there. Patience planted is progress made. When you root your actions in belief and nurture them with steady care, the impossible shifts closer to inevitable. It's time to stop rushing. Start planting. Watch your growth surprise you. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #WellspringWednesday #CreateYourNow #HealthAndWellness 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.