Christmas isn’t all twinkle lights and matching pajamas — and honestly, neither is the original Christmas story. In this week’s episode, Carol, Kelly, and Tricia unwrap the mess of that first Christmas: a teenage girl with a world-shaking calling, a confused fiancé, a grueling journey under Roman oppression, no room at the inn, a stable full of animals, and a Savior who chose to arrive in the lowest, humblest place possible.

This conversation will remind you that God moves in the unexpected, He works through “no’s,” He meets us in the middle of our chaos, and He loves every single person more than we can imagine. If your Christmas feels far from picture-perfect, you are right in the kind of story God loves to step into.

1. God isn’t afraid of your mess.
   The Christmas story proves that He steps right into the unexpected, uncomfortable, and imperfect.

2. Every detail reveals His heart.
   From shepherds to stables, God intentionally chose what the world overlooks to show that everyone matters to Him.

3. His plans may look upside-down, but they’re always better.
   He defies expectations so He can display His goodness, creativity, and grace in ways we never could imagine.

“Perfection is grabbing tight. Surrender is letting go.”

Perfection steals joy faster than a toddler steals snacks. And this time of year? Whew. It creeps into our celebrations, our families, our expectations, and even our walk with Jesus.

In this episode, Carol, Kelly, and Tricia get super honest about why we cling to perfection, what it exposes in our hearts, and how surrender frees us to enjoy God — and each other — so much more. From Christmas card chaos to Spanx mishaps to the deeper spiritual roots underneath our striving, the girls unpack why perfection is a heavy burden Jesus never asked us to carry.

You’ll laugh, you’ll feel seen, and you’ll be gently nudged back toward the One who already loves you — not the polished version of you, but the real one.

REMEMBER...

• Perfection is usually rooted in insecurity.
  When we’re focused on managing how others see us, our eyes aren’t on Jesus — they’re on ourselves.

• Striving for perfection always leads to anxiety.
  Peace comes from trusting God, not controlling outcomes.

• Holiness and perfection are not the same.
  Perfection is for approval. Holiness flows from love and surrender.

Christmas comes fast, doesn’t it? One minute it’s fall leaves and football… the next it’s gift bags, school parties, and the constant feeling that you should be doing more. This week, Carol, Kelly, and Tricia talk honestly about something we all feel: how hard it can be to slow down long enough to actually prepare our hearts for Jesus at Christmas.

You’ll hear stories about Advent traditions, quiet moments by the tree lights, “shop your car” Christmas parties, mismatched gift bags, and how active waiting teaches us to trust God’s character — even when He feels silent.

If you’ve been craving a simpler Christmas, a quieter soul, or a shift from chaos to peace in Christ… this one’s for you.

Preparing for Christmas starts with preparing your heart. Not your menu, your gift list, or your Pinterest-perfect tree.

Waiting on God isn’t passive — it’s active trust. We rehearse His faithfulness to strengthen our faith.

Simplicity creates space for Jesus. Turning off the lights, slowing your pace, and lowering expectations makes more room for joy.