Jenna Michael
📍Charlotte, NC | Mom, Author of Let's Choose Less, Parenting Coach at Your Purposeful Parenting
📝 Editor’s Note
I am thankful to have fond childhood memories. However, I do have one complaint — I always wanted a brother.
I have two sisters. Don’t get me wrong, they are great. I was in the middle and I’m close with both of them. We generally got a long well even though I was probably a pretty annoying brother and a little too protective.
Because I always wanted a brother, I am so happy to have two boys. Watching them grow up together is very special. They love to play together and wrestle. This past week we moved our two boys into the same room. Our oldest not only got a roommate but he also got to sleep in a “big boy bed” for the first time.
Shockingly, the two are sleeping through the night and they are sleeping longer. The sample size is quite low, so no jinxes.
And to top it off, my life stays crazy as they got a new baby brother last week. An 8-week-old red lab named Kismet. Fate to now have three boys and a baby sister on the way in August. Wish me luck (and sleep).
Without further ado….
Why Jenna?
Jenna was recommended for a profile by Nellie Allen. Nellie recommended her because she is a wealth of knowledge on all things parents. She is a mother of four and a homeschool teacher to all four kids! Make sure to stay connected to Jenna as she self-publishes a book called "Let's Choose Less", which she described as a "lifestyle manual for helping families simplify".
Connect with her on Instagram.
Self-Description
Homeschooling mom of four, runner, avid reader, and author. As a parenting coach, I connect authentically with fellow parents, demonstrating that simplicity is key even amidst the chaos.
Jenna’s 6 Recommendations
Written in her own words…
1.Vicks Filter-Free Ultrasonic Humidifier ($65)
Any time our kids are sick, we set up these humidifiers for extra overnight congestion help. It feels odd to have a favorite humidifier, but these have worked wonders for us. As a bonus, you can add Vick’s Vapo Steam liquid or scent pads to these humidifiers to amp up their effectiveness.
2. Early Morning Quiet Time
As a mom of four, my days can be loud and crowded, but starting the day before everyone else does gives me the ability to start my day off right. I spend a few minutes journaling and doing a Bible study. A key factor for me is not going downstairs until I finish my quiet time, or I’ll immediately get distracted by chores. Early morning quiet time is a small practice that makes a big difference in my day.
Vice:
There are many days I just can’t get up. Sleep deprivation is a real challenge for a parent. Don’t think I start my day perfectly every day at 5 a.m. Some days, it just can’t happen because the extra sleep is a necessity.
3. Liquid IV Hydration Multiplier ($22 for 16)
No matter the season, staying hydrated is always a priority for me as a runner. I love using Liquid IV Hydration packs to replace electrolytes after a run, workout, or busy day. It's incredible how dehydrating parenting can be, and I often forget to take care of myself while on the go. Our kids enjoy mixing them up for us, and they taste better than many other hydration supplements we've tried. We typically purchase them when they go on sale at Costco, but you can also find them in most grocery stores or on Amazon.
4. A Night Away for Reading and Relaxing
Last Christmas, my husband surprised me with a wonderful gift: a night away at a local hotel. The rules were simple:
I couldn’t return home until a specific time
I had to order room service
I was required to relax
It was a charming and thoughtful gift that I truly enjoyed. I highly recommend this idea for anyone looking for a gift for the busy mom in their life (perhaps you!). It doesn’t have to be an extravagant vacation; a night away from responsibilities with time to read was perfect. I’ll definitely be adding this to my Christmas list again!
5. CRZ YOGA Thermal Fleece Lined Legging ($32)
Finding the motivation to get outside during the colder months can be challenging, but these fleece-lined leggings have provided an extra layer of warmth that has made our winter adventures possible this year. Whether we are spending a day at a farm, enjoying an afternoon hike, or spending hours in our backyard, I’ve worn these leggings everywhere. They are high-waisted and feature side pockets (which is a huge plus!), and the smooth exterior layer adds to their durability.
6. Books
As an avid reader, I couldn’t skip this category; the only problem is recommending just one book. I’m not afraid to admit that I’m on the Fourth Wing bandwagon, and "Onyx Storm”—the third and recently released book in the series—was one of my latest novel choices. For non-fiction, I’d recommend John Eldridge’s book “Get Your Life Back,” which provides practical, simple tips for living in today’s world.
Want to get in touch with Jenna? Reach out through email: Jenna@yourpurposefulparenting or follow her on Instagram @purposeful__parenting
Plug | Let’s Choose Less
My book Let's Choose Less was just published on March 10th. Let's Choose Less is a lifestyle manual for moms seeking to simplify the world around them.
P.S. from Rambull — I can confidently say this $9.99 Tortilla warmer pouch is the best purchase I’ve ever made under $10. If your family is like ours and eats tacos once a week, this is a game changer. You toss it in the microwave for only a few seconds and you’ve got fluffy, warm tortillas. Chef’s kiss.