Abigail Condon - Mindset + Tips for Moms

09/05/2024

04/02/2024

The boy who made me a mom…

This year you started to really love learning. You went from struggling to slowly trace your name to writing it on everything.

You went from repeating other people’s stories to crafting your own.

You started singing your own songs, from “mommy loves flowers” to “Jesus was born in a barn.”

I love how you love to be silly, but take on every new task with serious dedication. You love your family so much and so we’ll, and you’re just starting to branch out and show the rest of the world what an amazing kid you are.

4 was SO fun, but I have a feeling we’re really going to love 5 ❤️

Happy birthday ❤️❤️

09/08/2023

I remember this…

This was about the same time Joseph started getting interested in playing with Valerie— when she was 6 months old.

It feels bittersweet to know Elise is getting so big (if she keeps her current pace, she’ll be crawling in the next month or so). She’s not going to be my baby for much longer.

But giving up the title of “baby” will mean getting the title of “friend” and “playmate”from her siblings, and I know from experience that’s an even sweeter role.

So until then, I’ll keep holding you close little girl. But as much as I’m holding on to each day you’re a baby, I’m looking forward just as much to seeing who you will be 🤍

01/08/2023

In honor of World Breastfeeding Week, here are 4 tips for getting started with your breastfeeding journey!

I am thankful I have been able to breastfeed all three of my kids, but it took about a month to really get the hang of it the first time. My advice for new moms who want to breastfeed is to commit to the first month. By that time, your baby will be stronger and it gives you time to navigate any challenges that might come up.

1. Get help early and often! An IBCLC will be able to help you make sure your baby has a good, pain-free latch. Plus, an IBCLC is often covered by insurance and can even come to your house!

2. Skin to skin helps promote oxytocin and milk production, so enjoy as much of it as you want! Plus, taking baby’s clothes off is a great way to help them wake up fully to feed.

3. Your body will use about 500 extra calories per day for milk production! So make sure you are eating nutrient dense foods and staying hydrated. Have your partner keep snacks and water stocked wherever you feed your baby.

4. Just being aware that engorgement happens can be helpful! I know it was one of the things that surprised me! Using a hakaa or breast pump can make engorgement last longer, so ask an IBCLC if you want to incorporate pumping.

What tips help you when you started?
# .cd

25/07/2023

My favorite thing about summer is daily adventures with my kids ❤️ My second favorite thing is how much easier it is to keep a clean house when we’re always outside 😅

08/04/2023

Spending Saturday reflecting on the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross and teaching the littles about it with Resurrection Rolls ❤️

I never want to take for granted who God is and what Jesus did for me. Part of that is ensuring that I’m doing what I can to teach my kids about the Lord from an early age.

I’ve found that my kids rarely sit still except when they’re focused on eating, so we’ve been making lunch time discipleship time. Most days we just read a story or two together. It may seem small, but they remember ❤️

Happy Easter weekend, everyone!

06/03/2023

☀️ Save this post for the next time you’re praying for your baby (or older child)!

What I love about praying these verses over my baby is that I can pray for her where she’s at right now but also start praying declarations over who she’s becoming.

Plus, the Holy Spirit is so good that He will lead you and show you exactly what your baby needs you to pray for, from separation anxiety or bad dreams to understanding their identity as a child of God.

Would you add any scriptures to this list? Let me know in the comments!

02/03/2023

God knew that you would be the mom to your kids. God knew what your financial situation would be. He knew how you would birth your baby. He knew how your body would change during pregnancy. He knew every way you would fail and every way you would doubt your abilities. He knew whether you would choose to stay home or choose to work a 9-5 (or something in between).

➡️ And he still chose to create you.
➡️ He still chose to bless you with your children.
➡️ He still chose to give you a plan and a purpose to fulfill on the earth.

God doesn’t make mistakes, so if he knew everything about you so far, you can trust that He knows everything about your future.

He knows you better than you know yourself.
He knows that everything you need is found in him.
He knows that your future is bright.
He knows when you need to rest.
He knows the next step you need to take.

Lean into the one who knows you best, mama. If he takes care of the birds of the air, how much more will he take care of you ❤️

27/02/2023

As cute as this is (and it is super cute 😍) - let’s get something straight.

1. This is not indicative of EVERY interaction these two have. 🤪

2. This is not the way every child will respond to their new sibling.

In fact, when we had Valerie (our second child), Joseph basically ignored her for the first three months of her life.

He was only 19 months old when she was born and really didn’t understand who she was or why she was important.

With this baby, he is interested in her and wants to be sure that she is safe and fed, but he’s not nearly as affectionate as his sister.

My point is that both are okay and totally normal!

Not every child is going to have a cute, TikTok worthy reaction to seeing their new sibling for the first time.

The same kid who ignored his new sibling now constantly wants her to play with him, and the two have developed their own games and inside jokes!

So however it starts, give them time to develop their sibling relationship in their own way!

How did your kids respond to meeting their new sibling? What helped them develop a good relationship? Let’s chat in the comments!

24/02/2023

Happy one week sweet Elise 💕 You’re the perfect edition to our family.

I can’t believe that one week ago we were snuggling in a postpartum room just getting to know each other.

I feel like you’re getting the best of me— I know how newborns speak now, as a third-time mom. I know when you’re gassy or tired or hungry. Sure it’s a little crazy with two older siblings, but we’ll learn through that too.

Special thanks to everyone who has sent a meal or encouraging text, you’ve helped me so much in this transition ❤️

07/09/2022

We are excited to announce that baby Condon number three is due in early March 2023! We are so excited to expand our family and add another child to love, nurture, and disciple ❤️

04/07/2022

Happy 4th! 🎉

16/05/2022

We live in a world where people celebrate what they see.

A new car, a promotion, an award.

And all of that can make the unseen work of changing diapers, kissing boo-boos, and calming tantrums seem… insignificant.

The work you do is valuable, whether you go to work, stay home with your kids, or some combination of the two.

Because a diaper change isn’t just a diaper change, it’s an assertion of your child’s value and a demonstration of your love and commitment to them.

Kissing a boo-boo is a sign of your ability to change the way your kids see the world and your ability to remind them that they are safe in dark moments.

Calming a tantrum (maybe the most frustrating task because everything feels out of control) helps lay the foundation for your child to handle their big emotions in the future and know that they can come to you with anything, big or small.

And maybe there are no rewards for “best boo-boo kisser” or no social media posts celebrating how you patiently worked with your toddler for ten minutes after they work up on the wrong side of the bed, but that has value.

So if you have to say it to yourself a million times a day, do it.

God knew you’d be in this season, and he is so pleased that you are investing in your kids. He is so excited about the work you’re doing and…

He sees you.

So remember, mama. You have value. Your work has value. And no one can replace you in your child’s life.

16/05/2022

Anyone else’s kids have the same reaction? 😅

Baby sleep was at times challenging to navigate, but no one warned me about toddler sleep 😅.

Some thing that have helped include having a consistent routine, making sure my husband and I are both giving out kids distration-free playtime, and setting expectations for what will happen if they get up.

It's not perfect though, and if you're struggling, remember that it’s not forever! Seasons change. Your kids will change. Instead of wishing things were different, try asking “What can I do to meet my child where they are right now?”

Then pray about it! Holy Spirit will give you answers for you unique situation ❤️

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13/04/2022

Hey new mama, here’a a secret...

Self care is not complicated.

At this stage, taking care of your body is self care. Your body just spent nine months making a whole human! Not to mention all the work it did to bring that baby into the world. You’re spending a lot of time taking care of that baby, but your body and mind still matter. That means You still need to prioritize getting rest, taking breaks, and doing things that make you feel refreshed.

Of course, this is not an exhaustive list. But the point is that self-care does not have to be expensive or time consuming, especially in the newborn face. Think of some thing that makes you feel happy and refreshed. It could be putting on your favorite TV show, ordering dinner from your favorite restaurant, putting on makeup, or even cuddling your husband.

What’s your favorite way to relax in the newborn stage? Let’s talk about it in the comments!

22/02/2022

I’ll never get over the trust that our kids have in us. That we will never let them fall.

It inspires me to two things:

First, I want to trust God like my kids trust me.

Second, I want to walk closely to the Holy Spirit so I never miss his direction. I know I won't be perfect, but I know that Christ makes up for my weaknesses. I'm most trustworthy as a parent when I'm trusting the One who knows our every need.

21/02/2022

Will my body ever be the same?

Is exercise worth it?

I want to exercise, but where should I start?

I remember thinking so many of these questions after having my son and my daughter. That’s why this week I am excited to welcome Dr. Jena Bradley to the Mom Mindset podcast!

Jenna is an experienced physical therapist with an interest in women’s health, and owner of the business Live Core Strong!

Her goal is to help strengthen their core so that they can be and feel their best.

In today’s podcast, we talked about everything it from postpartum fitness expectations, where to start exercising, the value of a two-minute workout, and how prioritizing your health sets the standard for your children.

This episode is a great introduction, but if you want more information I want to highly encourage you to check out her page !

What other postpartum topics would you like to discuss on the show? Let me know in the comments!

19/02/2022

Or get a babysitter, or take a nap, or hire a house cleaner, or let the kids watch some TV…

These things do not define your worth as a mom.

I’ve found that whenever I go through a difficult season I can get so bogged down by a bunch of standards I’ve set up for myself. So much so that I loose sight of what’s most important.

I’ve had conversations with my husband that have ended with him saying, yes, I’d love to come home to a clean house, but I mostly want to come home to a happy wife.

If using paper plates helps that happen, DO IT.

If letting your kids watch an extra episode of Paw Patrol while you tidy up or have your quiet time helps, DO IT.

Don’t get stuck in a routine that isn’t serving you, mama. You are worth more than your routine.

14/02/2022

If you’re married, your priorities are 1. God 2. Your husband 3. Your kids and 4. Everything else.

I understand that can be hard.

It's hard when your kids aren't sleeping through the night and your day feels like it's taken up by the monotony of cooking, cleaning, changing, and washing.

It’s important. But so is your marriage.

This week on the podcast we’re addressing 3 mindsets that could be hurt in your marriage and what you can do to change them (without just ignoring the problem).

Kids have a way of exposing the weaknesses in your marriage, but by investing in your spouse, you’re creating a solid foundation for your kids.

Plus, your kids will leave home someday, and your husband is the one you have promised yourself to for LIFE. It’s your job to help him be the best he can be and build a relationship that will help you through all the ups and downs of life.

So I hope you check out today’s podcast and let it challenge you. Your marriage is worth it!

10/02/2022

🎙If you missed last week’s podcast, here’s a sneak peak!

Milestones can be helpful, but we often stress over them because we want control over our baby’s development.

Ultimately, you have little control over when your baby rolls over, sits, or walks. All kids are different and develop at their own pace!

So take a breath, trust God, and enjoy each stage! You got this!

07/02/2022

The devil wants to keep you isolated.

Think about Elijah. When he heard that Jezebel was going to kill him, he ran away to an isolated place.

There, he continued to believe the lie that he was the only prophet serving God.

And what did God do? He had him eat a snack and take a nap (good advice when you’re feeling bad), and then, if you go on to verse 19, you will read, “So Elijah went and found Elisha.”

God knew that Elijah couldn’t do it alone. And you were not meant to do motherhood alone either.

I know it can feel scary to admit some of the thoughts that you’re thinking, especially if you’re a new mom or in that new postpartum stage.

I know you probably feel like you’re the only one who’s ever thought of them.

And I know that you might even feel some guilt or shame over the thoughts that keep overwhelming your mind.

But if you talk about it with another mom you trust, I guarantee that you will realize you’re not alone.

And I promise that even if they can’t directly relate with the thought you’re thinking, they will help you figure out where it’s coming from and tell you what the Bible says.

You have to expose lies by putting them into the light. Once you expose them for what they are, they lose their power over you.

And then, you have the ability to build up your spirit and refute those lies with the Word of God.

Check out this week’s episode of the Mom Mindset Podcast! We are breaking down how to silence the lies the enemy wants to tell you about your identity as a mom. We’ll talk about how to identify the lie, replace the lie, and rely on your community.

What helps you when you’re facing negative thoughts?

24/01/2022

In fact, she took a whole DAY to rest. 🤯

Let’s break it down. The proverbs 31 woman was busy. She worked well into the night. She took care of her family and servants. She was out making money and sowing her own clothes.

But that doesn’t mean she ran at that pace seven days a week.

This proverb is inspired by “the mother of King Lemuel.” Some people believe she was actually Bathsheba, one of King David’s wives. Others think that she was the mother of one of the Kings of Massa.

If she were Jewish, she would have practiced the law of refraining from work on the Sabbath.

If she were not Jewish, she would not have been held to that standard. However, we know that God commands us to have a Sabbath day and keep it holy. He would not have added in the description of this hard-working woman to the Bible if it was only possible when you disregard his command to rest.

God values rest too much to hold you to a standard that requires you to sacrifice it to succeed.

Of course, our lives are different now, and I’m not suggesting you have to take a day where you don’t do any kind of work. Remember, Jesus says in Mark 2:27 That the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.

I am saying that if you feel like you are constantly on the run seven days a week, it’s time to ask God what you need to do to prioritize rest for your body, mind, and spirit.

We’re talking about all this and more on the Mom Mindset Podcast this week, so go check out the link in my bio! You’ll learn how to identify and conquer the mindsets that keep moms like you from enjoying the kind of rest God wants for your life.

21/01/2022

Posting because getting two toddlers to look at the camera is like winning the lottery, am I right? 🤣

Decided to take the kids out for donuts sense my husband and I had to shuffle them around a bit this morning. The response did not disappoint, and I love getting some time to connect with them after they’ve been so patient with us.

20/01/2022

The other day God was talking to me about forest fires. So, that’s what we’re talking about on the podcast today!

Here’s the thing about forest fires: they’re actually a GOOD thing. They help forests become more healthy, get rid of harmful parasites and diseases, and create room for new life.

So why don’t we like forest fires? They threaten the things we have built: our homes, cars, and businesses.

In the Bible, God uses fire as a metaphor for testing people. When you put gold or silver into a fire, all of the impurities come to the surface and the metal worker can take them off the top. The result is a more purified metal. If there are no impurities, the fire proves that the metal is pure.

The same thing happens when we get into God’s presence. His spirit draws the impurities out into the open so that you can deal with them.

The problem comes when we hold onto things and try to keep them in secret, away from his presence.

When we try to hold on to our attitudes toward parenting.
When we try to hang onto a relationship that he doesn’t want in our lives.
When we hide our insecurity, fears, and bitterness, and hope it will go away on its own.

We have to expose the things in our life that cause us the most pain so that God can deal with them.

Yes, it can feel painful. It’s vulnerable. It requires a lot of humility.

But when you do, you’re going to experience freedom, confidence, and peace, and you will be able to be the mom, wife, and woman God has called you to be.

If you want to hear more, check out today’s podcast by clicking the link in my bio!

18/01/2022

Every YES is also a NO.

When we making New Year’s resolutions, it’s easy to want to say yes to everything. 😬

We want to have the best goals, form the best routines, take on the biggest projects… But sometimes the most productive thing we can do is to simplify and focus on what matters most to us.

Today on the Mom Mindset Podcast we’re talking about New Year’s resolutions and how you and expecting moms can make the most of them.

➡️ I’ll share how to stay on track when life gets busy and set resolutions that excite you a year long.

Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts, and let me know one of your resolutions in the comments! ⬇️

25/12/2021

🎄 4th service is a wrap and that means we’re heading “home” for Christmas!

24/12/2021

Share this with a mom who needs this reminder ❤️

If I’m honest, I had HIGH hopes for this month. I was going to plan a mini Christmas activity every day. I was going to have weekend movies with hot chocolate and send homemade gifts to my grandparents who love far away…

Well, we did two crafts, and I didn’t get my Christmas gifts in the mail 🤷🏻‍♀️ We didn’t have hot chocolate as a family once, and I skipped out on some of my usual favorite Christmas movies.

and you know what, my kids are still having a wonderful holiday season. We’re talking about Jesus, they enjoyed opening their presents, and we made some fun memories as a family anyways.

so instead of worrying about what you did or didn’t do tomorrow, focus on just being present with your family. Because really, that’s all they want or need ❤️

23/12/2021

I really felt this on my spirit this morning. Here’s how I learned how to stop playing the social media comparison game ➡️

1. I used to get upset and insecure when I saw pictures of lots of women hanging out at the mall together. Until I realized, that isn’t even what I would want to do with my friends!

The first key to avoiding social media comparison is to think about what you want in a friendship. Odds are, it won’t look like what you’re seeing online, and that’s okay! When you realize what you want, you’ll be able to identify it when it comes. You may even realize that you already have the friends you’re looking for!

2. Remember that what you do matters, even if you don’t post it on social media. Some people are just more private! I have some great friends, and we hardly ever post about our friendship on social media or share our outings. It’s OK if your friends do, and it’s OK if they don’t! The amount of social media attention your friendship gains is not a reflection on its quality.

3. Remember that social media is a highlight reel. Especially during the holiday season, it’s easy to post about the fun times you had baking cookies or seeing Santa. Remember that everyone is experiencing the same pieces of reality that you are. Lots of people are also on a budget, dealing with toddlers on a sugar crash, or coping with feelings of grief during the holiday.

Your kids will remember for some other childhood so much more than they will one individual Christmas experience. Just give them your best, and trust God to fill in the rest.

What else would you add to this list?

20/12/2021

Hey mama— in case you needed to hear this:

- it’s okay if you forgot to move the elf.
- it’s okay if you don’t have your tree up yet.
- it’s okay if you didn’t make it out to look at Christmas lights.
- it’s okay if the only people you got gifts for are your immediate family.
- it’s okay if you are mourning the loss of a loved on and having a hard time keeping up with your usual traditions.
- it’s okay if you haven’t made cookies or watched a Christmas movie.

Holiday traditions and experiences are fun, but they are not the whole story, and they certainly don’t define you!

As we approach Christmas Day, don’t judge yourself for how you did or didn’t prepare. Let’s focus on celebrating Jesus, the hope he gives us, and the love our families share because of Him ❤️

P.S. I’d love to hear how your family celebrates Jesus on Christmas day! Let me know in the comments.