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June 5, 2025 35 mins

You all LOVED our series “Empty Nester Wisdom” from two years ago so we are bringing it back. Mentors have played such a vital role in my parenting journey. For the next two months, we are going to learn from other wise and godly moms that are just a season ahead of us. This series isn’t just for those entering the empty nest season - it’s for all moms and all stages. Get your journals ready for the next 9 weeks - they all offer some advice and encouragement worth keeping. And possibly bring a tissue box. 


Have you all watched the amazing show “Love On The Spectrum?” If not, you need to add that to your watch list for the summer. It’s a romantic documentary series as people on the autism spectrum look for love and navigate the changing world of dating and relationships.


My guest today is Nicci Smith who is a mom, wife and fierce advocate of the autism community. Her son, Tanner, is one of the breakout stars of the show. Nicci is doing an amazing job of sharing her faith in her new found fame. In today’s episode, we hear from a seasoned mom of four grown kids and all that God has taught her along the way.


She is so honest about her faith and her doubts which is so refreshing. She is also honest about how long she wanted to fix the autism out of Tanner. She provided invaluable wisdom to let go of control sooner. And to enjoy the exact child God gave to each of us. She shared that she’s thankful God didn’t answer her prayers to take the autism away. 


Join us for the next 9 weeks and don’t forget to grab a journal and take notes from these wise mommas. What a gift!


Enjoy!

Courtney 


(10:49) Acceptance and Letting Go

(16:42) Trusting God's Plan for Our Children

(18:40) The Power of Maternal Instincts

(21:11) Navigating Sibling Dynamics in Special Needs Families

(22:00) Fostering Compassion and Understanding Among Siblings

(28:38) Transitioning to the Empty Nest Stage

(31:08) Faith and Trust in Parenting Journeys


Connect with Pardon The Mess:


Christian Parenting

Pardon The Mess 

Courtney DeFeo


Get your 2024-2025 prayer journal, A Life of Faith


Resources from today’s show:

Connect with Nicci

Connect with Tanner

Talk To Me, Sis podcast

Christian Parenting products

Marriage Simplified

 

Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org



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