We’ve got another great episode here at Pardon The Mess with Jessica Robertson. In this conversation, Jessica shares about her journey of faith, family and the importance of adoption. She reflects on her upbringing in a Christian home, the legacy of her father-in-law Phil Robertson, and the values instilled in her family.

Jessica discusses the emotional journey of adopting her son and the challenges and joys that come with it. I loved hearing her heart for adoption and how that has impacted her own faith.

My favorite part is at the end when she shares about what God is teaching her in motherhood right now. He has been pressing on her to slow down and enjoy the kids at every phase. That is a great challenge for this week. How can we slow down? Can we hug a little longer, stay at the park a little longer or linger at the kitchen table? Let’s not be so rushed that we miss moments with the gifts from above - our children.

Does everyone have their Prayer Journal? I’m excited to pray together through this school year. Join me!

Enjoy!

Courtney

(00:00) Introduction and Family Background

(05:45) The Journey of Adoption

(11:15) Challenges and Joys of Parenting an Adopted Child

(16:31) The Heart of Adoption and Fostering

(21:27) Dear Valor: A Story of Adoption

(26:56) The Power of a Mother's Love and Presence

Connect with Pardon The Mess:

Christian Parenting

Pardon The Mess

Courtney DeFeo

ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW

Resources from today’s show:

Connect with Jessica

Jep and Jess Growing the Dynasty

Dear Valor - her newest book

Brave Books

All God’s Children

Foster Village

Camp Winshape

Brave Books

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

One of our listeners reached out about her need for resources for her blended family. I am so glad she did! This episode is for all of those navigated blended families and stepfamilies. I learned so much through this chat with Ron Deal and hope we all lean in to gather more understanding of all of God’s beautiful families.

Ron L. Deal is a bestselling author, licensed marriage & family therapist, podcaster, and popular conference speaker who conducts “laugh and learn” marriage and family seminars and professional training around the country and online. He specializes in both marriage enrichment and stepfamily education.

Frequently featured in the national media, Ron has worked full-time in marriage and family ministry since 1988 serving in both local churches and with FamilyLife®. He currently serves as President of Smart Stepfamilies™ and Senior Director of FamilyLife Blended®, a division of FamilyLife®. He is the most widely read and viewed author on blended families in the country.

My favorite part is how Ron shares the complex nature of blended families but also gives hope! He reminds us that God is in this process and for your families. He also encourages parents to have patience for the timing of it all. Don’t give up!

Enjoy!

Courtney

(0:00 - 2:00)Introduction to Ron Deal

(2:01 - 10:00) The Complexity of Blended Families

(10:01 - 18:00) Patience and Time in Family Bonding

(18:01 - 25:00) Resources for Step-Parents

(25:01 - 32:00) Ron’s Personal Journey

(32:01 - 40:00) Mindful Marriage Book Discussion

(40:01 - End) Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

Connect with Pardon The Mess:

Christian Parenting

Pardon The Mess

Courtney DeFeo

ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW

Resources from today’s show:

Connect with Ron

Smart Stepfamilies - books and resources

Smart Stepfamilies - find a counselor

Family Life Blended

The Mindful Marriage - new book and conferences

Right Now Media

Rachel & Rod Brown with Ron Deal (Family Life interview)

Clear Focus Bible for Kids

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

Do you have a daughter or son headed off to college or maybe a high school senior? This episode is for you! I gathered three college sophomores and asked them all the questions. What are your dorm tips? Study tips? Rush tips? Now, these are three girls. So, I imagine we need to do another episode with some guys - because their perspective would be different. However, so much of what they shared is universal and helpful to all.

Camryn, Caroline and Lucy offered such amazing encouragement for college kids on how to keep their faith a priority. I loved how they gave very practical tips from finding a mentor, finding a church, getting coffee with new friends and making a choice to spend time with God.

My favorite part is when they share about what they appreciate about their moms. It’s so fun to hear from the mouths of grown kids what mattered in their lives. I pray that it will encourage you to keep loving God and loving your kids well.

(00:00) Introduction and Dorm Essentials

(05:40) Study Tips for College Success

(11:28) Navigating Rush: Tips and Insights

(17:02) Maintaining Faith in College

(22:49) Appreciating Parents and Their Influence

Connect with Pardon The Mess:

Christian Parenting

Pardon The Mess

Courtney DeFeo

ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW

Resources Mentioned

School Simplified

Overwhelmed Mom

Brave Books