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231</div></div><div class="site-inner"><div class="content-sidebar-wrap"><main class="content"><article class="post-10437 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail category-achieving-dreams category-being-present category-compassion category-courage category-healing category-human-connection category-i-am-enough category-only-love-today category-rejection category-self-acceptance category-self-love category-what-i-would-have-missed entry" aria-label="I Can Disappoint Someone and Still Have a Clear 
231Conscience" itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/CreativeWork"><header class="entry-header"><div class="home-featured-image"><a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/08/13/i-can-disappoint-someone-and-still-have-a-clear-conscience/"><img width="820" height="500" src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/IMG_2162-820x500.jpeg" class="aligncenter" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /></a></div><p class="entry-meta"><span class="entry-categories">in <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/achieving-dreams/" rel="category tag">achieving dreams</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/being-present/" rel="category tag">being present</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/compassion/" rel="category tag">compassion</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/courage/" rel="category tag">courage</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/healing/" rel="category tag">healing</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/human-connection/" rel="category tag">human connection</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/i-am-enough/" rel="category tag">I am enough</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/only-love-today/" rel="category tag">only love today</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/rejection/" rel="category tag">rejection</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/self-acceptance/" rel="category tag">self-acceptance</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/self-love/" rel="category tag">self-love</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/what-i-would-have-missed/" rel="category tag">What I Would Have Missed</a></span></p><h2 class="entry-title" itemprop="headline"><a class="entry-title-link" rel="bookmark" href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/08/13/i-can-disappoint-someone-and-still-have-a-clear-conscience/">I Can Disappoint Someone and Still Have a Clear Conscience</a></h2>
232</header><div class="entry-content" itemprop="text"><input class="jpibfi" type="hidden"><p>I can disappoint someone and still have a clear conscience. That feels like a miracle to say out loud.  For most of my life, I believed someone else&#8217;s disappointment was mine to carry. If someone was unhappy with me, I carried it. If I didn’t measure up to someone’s expectations, that was mine to hold. If someone said, “I’m disappointed&#8230; <br /><a class="more-link" href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/08/13/i-can-disappoint-someone-and-still-have-a-clear-conscience/">Read More</a></p>
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233</div></li><li class="share-tumblr"><a class="tumblr-share-button" target="_blank" href="https://www.tumblr.com/share" data-title="I Can Disappoint Someone and Still Have a Clear Conscience" data-content="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/08/13/i-can-disappoint-someone-and-still-have-a-clear-conscience/" title="Share on Tumblr"data-posttype="link">Share on Tumblr</a></li><li class="share-print"><a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" data-shared="" class="share-print sd-button" href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/08/13/i-can-disappoint-someone-and-still-have-a-clear-conscience/" target="_blank" title="Click to print" ><span>Print</span></a></li><li class="share-end"></li></ul></div></div></div></div></article><article class="post-10421 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail category-compassion category-dealing-with-change category-emotional-wellbeing category-healing category-human-connection category-human-needs category-only-love-today category-overcoming-adversity category-self-acceptance entry" aria-label="When You Don&#8217;t Feel Like Yourself" itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/CreativeWork"><header class="entry-header"><div class="home-featured-image"><a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/07/17/when-you-dont-feel-like-yourself/"><img width="400" height="400" src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_0056-400x400.jpeg" class="alignleft" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_0056-400x400.jpeg 400w, https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_0056-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_0056-160x160.jpeg 160w, https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_0056-320x320.jpeg 320w, https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_0056-500x500.jpeg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /></a></div><p class="entry-meta"><span class="entry-categories">in <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/compassion/" rel="category tag">compassion</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/dealing-with-change/" rel="category tag">dealing with change</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/emotional-wellbeing/" rel="category tag">emotional wellbeing</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/healing/" rel="category tag">healing</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/human-connection/" rel="category tag">human connection</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/human-needs/" rel="category tag">human needs</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/only-love-today/" rel="category tag">only love today</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/overcoming-adversity/" rel="category tag">overcoming adversity</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/self-acceptance/" rel="category tag">self-acceptance</a></span></p><h2 class="entry-title" itemprop="headline"><a class="entry-title-link" rel="bookmark" href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/07/17/when-you-dont-feel-like-yourself/">When You Don&#8217;t Feel Like Yourself</a></h2>
234</header><div class="entry-content" itemprop="text"><input class="jpibfi" type="hidden"><p>Recently I shared this essay with my Treehouse community, and I was deeply moved by how many people said, &#8220;This gave language to something I haven&#8217;t been able to explain.&#8221; If you&#8217;ve been feeling unlike yourself lately, I wanted to share it with you, too&#8230; One of the kindest things I ever did for myself was tell my daughter, &#8220;I&#8230; <br /><a class="more-link" href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/07/17/when-you-dont-feel-like-yourself/">Read More</a></p>
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235</div></li><li class="share-tumblr"><a class="tumblr-share-button" target="_blank" href="https://www.tumblr.com/share" data-title="When You Don't Feel Like Yourself" data-content="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/07/17/when-you-dont-feel-like-yourself/" title="Share on Tumblr"data-posttype="link">Share on Tumblr</a></li><li class="share-print"><a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" data-shared="" class="share-print sd-button" href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/07/17/when-you-dont-feel-like-yourself/" target="_blank" title="Click to print" ><span>Print</span></a></li><li class="share-end"></li></ul></div></div></div></div></article><article class="post-10407 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail category-being-present category-compassion category-conscious-parenting category-emotional-wellbeing category-healing category-human-connection category-human-needs category-raising-resilient-kids category-raising-teens category-relationships category-unconditional-love entry" aria-label="The Hope I Couldn&#8217;t See Five Years Ago" itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/CreativeWork"><header class="entry-header"><div class="home-featured-image"><a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/06/25/the-hope-i-couldnt-see-five-years-ago/"><img width="400" height="400" src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/IMG_4489-400x400.jpeg" class="alignleft" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/IMG_4489-400x400.jpeg 400w, https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/IMG_4489-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/IMG_4489-160x160.jpeg 160w, https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/IMG_4489-320x320.jpeg 320w, https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/IMG_4489-500x500.jpeg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /></a></div><p class="entry-meta"><span class="entry-categories">in <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/being-present/" rel="category tag">being present</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/compassion/" rel="category tag">compassion</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/conscious-parenting/" rel="category tag">conscious parenting</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/emotional-wellbeing/" rel="category tag">emotional wellbeing</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/healing/" rel="category tag">healing</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/human-connection/" rel="category tag">human connection</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/human-needs/" rel="category tag">human needs</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/raising-resilient-kids/" rel="category tag">Raising Resilient Kids</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/raising-teens/" rel="category tag">raising teens</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/relationships/" rel="category tag">relationships</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/unconditional-love/" rel="category tag">unconditional love</a></span></p><h2 class="entry-title" itemprop="headline"><a class="entry-title-link" rel="bookmark" href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/06/25/the-hope-i-couldnt-see-five-years-ago/">The Hope I Couldn&#8217;t See Five Years Ago</a></h2>
236</header><div class="entry-content" itemprop="text"><input class="jpibfi" type="hidden"><p>Five years ago, I found myself leaning on my child. I&#8217;d recently had foot surgery and was confined to a bulky walking boot. In a spur-of-the-moment decision, my then 14-year-old daughter and I boarded a plane to visit people who loved us unconditionally. With my foot confined to a bulky walking boot, I knew traveling wasn&#8217;t going to be easy&#8230;. <br /><a class="more-link" href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/06/25/the-hope-i-couldnt-see-five-years-ago/">Read More</a></p>
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237</div></li><li class="share-tumblr"><a class="tumblr-share-button" target="_blank" href="https://www.tumblr.com/share" data-title="The Hope I Couldn't See Five Years Ago" data-content="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/06/25/the-hope-i-couldnt-see-five-years-ago/" title="Share on Tumblr"data-posttype="link">Share on Tumblr</a></li><li class="share-print"><a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" data-shared="" class="share-print sd-button" href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/06/25/the-hope-i-couldnt-see-five-years-ago/" target="_blank" title="Click to print" ><span>Print</span></a></li><li class="share-end"></li></ul></div></div></div></div></article><article class="post-10397 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail category-compassion category-emotional-wellbeing category-healing category-human-connection category-human-needs category-i-am-enough category-living-authentically category-mental-health category-self-acceptance category-self-forgiveness category-self-love category-what-i-would-have-missed entry" aria-label="When You Secretly Long for Permission to Rest" itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/CreativeWork"><header class="entry-header"><div class="home-featured-image"><a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/05/27/when-you-secretly-long-for-permission-to-rest/"><img width="400" height="400" src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/482031265_1214819163335021_8914549826451686284_n-2-400x400.jpg" class="alignleft" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/482031265_1214819163335021_8914549826451686284_n-2-400x400.jpg 400w, https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/482031265_1214819163335021_8914549826451686284_n-2-150x150.jpg 150w, https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/482031265_1214819163335021_8914549826451686284_n-2-160x160.jpg 160w, https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/482031265_1214819163335021_8914549826451686284_n-2-320x320.jpg 320w, https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/482031265_1214819163335021_8914549826451686284_n-2-500x500.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /></a></div><p class="entry-meta"><span class="entry-categories">in <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/compassion/" rel="category tag">compassion</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/emotional-wellbeing/" rel="category tag">emotional wellbeing</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/healing/" rel="category tag">healing</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/human-connection/" rel="category tag">human connection</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/human-needs/" rel="category tag">human needs</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/i-am-enough/" rel="category tag">I am enough</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/living-authentically/" rel="category tag">living authentically</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/mental-health/" rel="category tag">mental health</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/self-acceptance/" rel="category tag">self-acceptance</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/self-forgiveness/" rel="category tag">self-forgiveness</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/self-love/" rel="category tag">self-love</a>&middot <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/Topics/what-i-would-have-missed/" rel="category tag">What I Would Have Missed</a></span></p><h2 class="entry-title" itemprop="headline"><a class="entry-title-link" rel="bookmark" href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/05/27/when-you-secretly-long-for-permission-to-rest/">When You Secretly Long for Permission to Rest</a></h2>
238</header><div class="entry-content" itemprop="text"><input class="jpibfi" type="hidden"><p>I walked out of the doctor’s office through the hospital corridor in a daze. While lost in thought over the painful examination, new treatment options, and the mention of another surgery, I walked right past the elevator. That’s when I found myself peering into an occupied hospital room. I could hear the television drifting from the doorway.&nbsp;Drew Carey was announcing&#8230; <br /><a class="more-link" href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/05/27/when-you-secretly-long-for-permission-to-rest/">Read More</a></p>
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240</header><div class="entry-content" itemprop="text"><input class="jpibfi" type="hidden"><p>On the morning of my daughter’s high school graduation last spring, I received difficult news. Staring at the text message, I took a few deep breaths and weighed my options. Responding right then would’ve meant halting my morning preparations to craft a reply—one that undoubtedly would pull me away from the joy of the day and into an emotional spiral&#8230;. <br /><a class="more-link" href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/05/08/hard-news-can-wait-when-your-presence-is-love/">Read More</a></p>
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242</header><div class="entry-content" itemprop="text"><input class="jpibfi" type="hidden"><p>“Come on in,” the gray-haired gentleman waved from the middle seat of aisle 10 on my flight headed home. I looked to the elderly woman seated next to him, hoping to get some clarity on the situation. “He has bad legs and can’t stand so good,” she quickly explained. “Would you be so kind to just slide by?” I took&#8230; <br /><a class="more-link" href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/2026/04/09/the-softest-parts-of-ourselves-dont-need-erased/">Read More</a></p>
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259<p style="text-align: center; font-size:11px"><i>I want to make memories, not to-do lists. I want to feel the squeeze of loving arms, not the pressure of over-commitment. I want to get lost in conversation with my favorite people, not consumed in a sea of unimportant emails. I want to be overwhelmed by sunsets that give me hope, not by overloaded agendas that steal my joy. I want the noise of my life to be a mixture of laughter & gratitude, not the intrusive buzz of mobile phones & text messages. I’m letting go of distraction, perfection, & pressure to grasp what really matters. I’m living Hands Free. Will you join me? (<a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/about-me/">Read More</a>)</i></p>
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262<section id="text-16" class="widget widget_text"><div class="widget-wrap"><h4 class="widget-title widgettitle">Meet Rachel</h4>
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264<img border="0" alt="Speaking Events" src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/rs_sb.jpg" width="350" height="289">
265</a>
266<blockquote>“After attending one of Rachel’s speaking events, I am finding myself pausing more and re-setting my reactions to my spouse and children as a result of reflecting on the situations and lessons Rachel shared. Her decision to reveal the good, the bad, and the ugly, and what she’s learned as she’s worked to transform herself, has lasting impacts on her audience. Rachel’s lessons are like ripples in the ocean as they help others like me move towards choosing love and coming as we are. Rachel works wonders by helping others work wonders.” 
267–A Hands Free Mama in progress </blockquote></div>
268		</div></section>
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270<section id="simple-social-icons-2" class="widget simple-social-icons"><div class="widget-wrap"><h4 class="widget-title widgettitle">Keep In Touch</h4>
271<ul class="aligncenter"><li class="ssi-email"><a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/contact/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><svg role="img" class="social-email" aria-labelledby="social-email-2"><title id="social-email-2">Email</title>
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272<section id="text-13" class="widget widget_text"><div class="widget-wrap"><h4 class="widget-title widgettitle">Books</h4>
273			<div class="textwidget"><center>
274<a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/books/">
275<img src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Soul-Shift-Cover-sidebar.png" alt="Live Love Now" width="263" height="395" border="0">
276</a><br>Buy: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Soul-Shift-Getting-Unstuck-Reclaiming/dp/1683649524" target="_blank">Amazon</a> | <a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/soul-shift-macy-rachel-stafford/1141363805" target="_blank">Barnes & Noble</a><br><br>
277
278<a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/books/">
279<img src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/LLV_SB.png" alt="Live Love Now" width="263" height="400" border="0">
280</a><br>Buy: <a href="https://amzn.to/2pdKI1e" target="_blank">Amazon</a> | <a href="https://bit.ly/32P9Rxe?fbclid=IwAR2ABXGCgXX8VhHR23oHOvJBXVAWBr56Jz_vGJr8vYE3FJcVTRg7HIBbL0w" target="_blank">Barnes & Noble</a><br><br>
281
282<a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/books/">
283<img src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/olt-banner.png" alt="Books" width="263" height="400" border="0">
284</a><br>Buy: <a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/onlylovetoday/" target="_blank">Amazon</a> | <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/only-love-today-rachel-macy-stafford/1123949263?ean=9780310346746" target="_blank">Barnes & Noble</a><br><br><a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/books/">
285<img src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/book-sb.jpg" alt="Books" width="263" height="400" border="0">
286</a>
287
288<br>Buy: <a href="http://amzn.to/1xy8rGU" target="_blank">Amazon</a> | <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hands-free-life-rachel-macy-stafford/1120663228?ean=9780310338154" target="_blank">Barnes & Noble</a><br><br>
289<a href="https://www.handsfreemama.com/books/">
290<img src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/thebook1.png" alt="Books" width="308" height="400" border="0">
291</a>
292
293<br>Buy: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Hands-Free-Mama-Putting-Perfection/dp/0310338131" target="_blank">Amazon</a> | <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hands-free-mama-rachel-stafford/1115457387?ean=9780310338130" target="_blank">Barnes & Noble</a></center></div>
294		</div></section>
295<section id="archives-3" class="widget widget_archive"><div class="widget-wrap"><h4 class="widget-title widgettitle">Archives</h4>
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470</div></section>
471<section id="categories-2" class="widget widget_categories"><div class="widget-wrap"><h4 class="widget-title widgettitle">Categories</h4>
472<form action="https://www.handsfreemama.com" method="get"><label class="screen-reader-text" for="cat">Categories</label><select  name='cat' id='cat' class='postform'>
473	<option value='-1'>Select Category</option>
474	<option class="level-0" value="1840">#metoo</option>
475	<option class="level-0" value="25">Accent on the Positive</option>
476	<option class="level-0" value="1757">achieving dreams</option>
477	<option class="level-0" value="1754">advocacy</option>
478	<option class="level-0" value="1836">African Road</option>
479	<option class="level-0" value="1826">being present</option>
480	<option class="level-0" value="1761">compassion</option>
481	<option class="level-0" value="1778">conscious parenting</option>
482	<option class="level-0" value="1859">Coronavirus</option>
483	<option class="level-0" value="1735">courage</option>
484	<option class="level-0" value="1742">dealing with change</option>
485	<option class="level-0" value="1784">dying</option>
486	<option class="level-0" value="1769">elderly</option>
487	<option class="level-0" value="246">Embrace The Reminder</option>
488	<option class="level-0" value="1766">emotional wellbeing</option>
489	<option class="level-0" value="210">Eyes Unseen Words Unheard</option>
490	<option class="level-0" value="1767">finding joy</option>
491	<option class="level-0" value="229">Hands Free Baby Steps</option>
492	<option class="level-0" value="84">Hands Free Evidence</option>
493	<option class="level-0" value="1780">healing</option>
494	<option class="level-0" value="1747">human connection</option>
495	<option class="level-0" value="1760">human needs</option>
496	<option class="level-0" value="1816">I am enough</option>
497	<option class="level-0" value="79">I Have Today</option>
498	<option class="level-0" value="1741">intentional living</option>
499	<option class="level-0" value="1853">isolation</option>
500	<option class="level-0" value="1776">kids and phones</option>
501	<option class="level-0" value="1753">life&#8217;s purpose</option>
502	<option class="level-0" value="1857">Live Love Now</option>
503	<option class="level-0" value="1856">LIVE LOVE NOW the book</option>
504	<option class="level-0" value="1736">living authentically</option>
505	<option class="level-0" value="262">Living In Realness</option>
506	<option class="level-0" value="22">Memory Bank</option>
507	<option class="level-0" value="1763">mental health</option>
508	<option class="level-0" value="1737">new year hopes</option>
509	<option class="level-0" value="1744">new year resolutions</option>
510	<option class="level-0" value="1782">only love today</option>
511	<option class="level-0" value="1743">only love today the book</option>
512	<option class="level-0" value="1863">overcoming adversity</option>
513	<option class="level-0" value="1838">Overcoming fear</option>
514	<option class="level-0" value="1865">Pandemic holiday</option>
515	<option class="level-0" value="1867">pandemic struggles</option>
516	<option class="level-0" value="30">Perfect Imperfection</option>
517	<option class="level-0" value="1748">positive parenting</option>
518	<option class="level-0" value="1785">purpose</option>
519	<option class="level-0" value="28">Putting Distraction In Its Place</option>
520	<option class="level-0" value="1862">racism</option>
521	<option class="level-0" value="1825">Raising Resilient Kids</option>
522	<option class="level-0" value="1872">raising teens</option>
523	<option class="level-0" value="1852">rejection</option>
524	<option class="level-0" value="1759">relationships</option>
525	<option class="level-0" value="26">Right Here Right Now</option>
526	<option class="level-0" value="1837">Rwanda</option>
527	<option class="level-0" value="1824">School Shootings</option>
528	<option class="level-0" value="1745">self-acceptance</option>
529	<option class="level-0" value="1746">self-forgiveness</option>
530	<option class="level-0" value="1781">self-love</option>
531	<option class="level-0" value="1756">self-perception</option>
532	<option class="level-0" value="1839">sexual assault</option>
533	<option class="level-0" value="1770">simplicity</option>
534	<option class="level-0" value="1870">Soul Shift</option>
535	<option class="level-0" value="1869">special education teacher</option>
536	<option class="level-0" value="1789">special needs children</option>
537	<option class="level-0" value="29">Sunset Moments</option>
538	<option class="level-0" value="21">Take Time to Say It</option>
539	<option class="level-0" value="1831">teen wellness</option>
540	<option class="level-0" value="24">The Hands Free Revolution</option>
541	<option class="level-0" value="325">The Power of A Question</option>
542	<option class="level-0" value="50">The Truth Hurts (and Heals)</option>
543	<option class="level-0" value="334">There Is A Reason</option>
544	<option class="level-0" value="1854">traveling</option>
545	<option class="level-0" value="1830">unconditional love</option>
546	<option class="level-0" value="1866">virtual learning</option>
547	<option class="level-0" value="1768">volunteering</option>
548	<option class="level-0" value="18">What I Would Have Missed</option>
549	<option class="level-0" value="1779">yelling</option>
550	<option class="level-0" value="55">Your Words</option>
551</select>
552</form>
552<script type="text/javascript">
553/* <![CDATA[ */
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565/* ]]> */
566</script>
566
567</div></section>
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582            <span class="sbi-screenreader"></span>
583            <svg class="svg-inline--fa fa-clone fa-w-16 sbi_lightbox_carousel_icon" aria-hidden="true" aria-label="Clone" data-fa-proƒcessed="" data-prefix="far" data-icon="clone" role="img" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512">
584	                <path fill="currentColor" d="M464 0H144c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48v48H48c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48v320c0 26.51 21.49 48 48 48h320c26.51 0 48-21.49 48-48v-48h48c26.51 0 48-21.49 48-48V48c0-26.51-21.49-48-48-48zM362 464H54a6 6 0 0 1-6-6V150a6 6 0 0 1 6-6h42v224c0 26.51 21.49 48 48 48h224v42a6 6 0 0 1-6 6zm96-96H150a6 6 0 0 1-6-6V54a6 6 0 0 1 6-6h308a6 6 0 0 1 6 6v308a6 6 0 0 1-6 6z"></path>
585	            </svg>	                    <img decoding="async" src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed/img/placeholder.png" alt="During the holiday season, it helps to remember:
grief wears disguises …
fear talks in unbecoming ways …
anxiety gets controlling …
depression can look like fatigue …
586hopelessness withdraws…
and when we see these things,
it is not a time to lecture, turn away,
or retaliate —
but a call to love.

587My hand in yours,
Rachel 
588
589📘poem from my 4th book LIVE LOVE NOW: Relieve the Pressure &amp; Find Real  Connection with Our Kids">
590        </a>
591    </div>
592</div><div class="sbi_item sbi_type_carousel sbi_new sbi_transition" id="sbi_17993663933855237" data-date="1765043714">
593    <div class="sbi_photo_wrap">
594        <a class="sbi_photo" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DR7l9E0CWPp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" data-full-res="https://scontent.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.82787-15/592470387_18516152941071382_8878268491738557908_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&#038;_nc_cat=104&#038;ccb=7-5&#038;_nc_sid=18de74&#038;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiQ0FST1VTRUxfSVRFTS5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&#038;_nc_ohc=dtPY4rhbnegQ7kNvwE-T38L&#038;_nc_oc=AdqJztByQyjYDj-t500brjjpkgnG_00_lspyq_nEbHBUEsRfANRlpraZw8Sj3fBKhF8&#038;_nc_zt=23&#038;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&#038;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&#038;_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&#038;_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQJ9SSIqvwbBQ0dtUqKdvPa1lkSJsIpNtsqVRdKfg6AbObDyzqhm-DE3DCxSSb3rBAZeUmYjjjAHTg&#038;oh=00_AQLa6uu3ZFO2zQRfZq64uPKCJOOy0-bLkiI6UXOEkK0cBA&#038;oe=6AA244FF" data-img-src-set="{&quot;d&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/scontent.cdninstagram.com\/v\/t51.82787-15\/592470387_18516152941071382_8878268491738557908_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&amp;_nc_cat=104&amp;ccb=7-5&amp;_nc_sid=18de74&amp;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiQ0FST1VTRUxfSVRFTS5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&amp;_nc_ohc=dtPY4rhbnegQ7kNvwE-T38L&amp;_nc_oc=AdqJztByQyjYDj-t500brjjpkgnG_00_lspyq_nEbHBUEsRfANRlpraZw8Sj3fBKhF8&amp;_nc_zt=23&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&amp;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&amp;
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595            <span class="sbi-screenreader">December can stir up pressure we were never meant </span>
596            <svg class="svg-inline--fa fa-clone fa-w-16 sbi_lightbox_carousel_icon" aria-hidden="true" aria-label="Clone" data-fa-proƒcessed="" data-prefix="far" data-icon="clone" role="img" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512">
597	                <path fill="currentColor" d="M464 0H144c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48v48H48c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48v320c0 26.51 21.49 48 48 48h320c26.51 0 48-21.49 48-48v-48h48c26.51 0 48-21.49 48-48V48c0-26.51-21.49-48-48-48zM362 464H54a6 6 0 0 1-6-6V150a6 6 0 0 1 6-6h42v224c0 26.51 21.49 48 48 48h224v42a6 6 0 0 1-6 6zm96-96H150a6 6 0 0 1-6-6V54a6 6 0 0 1 6-6h308a6 6 0 0 1 6 6v308a6 6 0 0 1-6 6z"></path>
598	            </svg>	                    <img decoding="async" src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed/img/placeholder.png" alt="December can stir up pressure we were never meant to carry alone.
599
If you’re feeling stretched thin or expecting too much of yourself, these permission slips are for you.
600
601May they help you lower the bar, 
602soften your pace, and protect the peace you’ve worked so hard to claim.
603
604If one slide speaks to you, save it, send it to a friend, or say it to yourself.
605
606Rest is not a reward —
607it is a remembering: 
608you are worthy, too.🩵
609
610Only Love Today. 
611
612My hand in yours, 
613Rachel">
614        </a>
615    </div>
616</div><div class="sbi_item sbi_type_carousel sbi_new sbi_transition" id="sbi_17927611500159324" data-date="1764893261">
617    <div class="sbi_photo_wrap">
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618_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&amp;_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQKFQgBAveUSBwchKvV55J-JH95R6PgJ6lzyZNGHimG7MoBrEHDou7VYLLKz3rQkJcHePZ-XtWeb6w&amp;oh=00_AQIGhOMIxu5UaJlaH2RVQ7hgZuP35VSh7ykzp_FDaLdPtw&amp;oe=6AA233F5&quot;,&quot;150&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/scontent.cdninstagram.com\/v\/t51.82787-15\/589186710_18515858608071382_4153758622938855550_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&amp;_nc_cat=100&amp;ccb=7-5&amp;_nc_sid=18de74&amp;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiQ0FST1VTRUxfSVRFTS5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&amp;_nc_ohc=KMKsWYmA5-IQ7kNvwGrCvI9&amp;_nc_oc=Ado4JXKlROsP7DztjGhEittnK96c5VCFDzPDvyKyjSknlUv5O3YUGd3MHzC8UOOit_8&amp;_nc_zt=23&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&amp;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&amp;_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&amp;_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQKFQgBAveUSBwchKvV55J-JH95R6PgJ6lzyZNGHimG7MoBrEHDou7VYLLKz3rQkJcHePZ-XtWeb6w&amp;oh=00_AQIGhOMIxu5UaJlaH2RVQ7hgZuP35VSh7ykzp_FDaLdPtw&amp;oe=6AA233F5&quot;,&quot;320&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/scontent.cdninstagram.com\/v\/t51.82787-15\/589186710_18515858608071382_4153758622938855550_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&amp;_nc_cat=100&amp;ccb=7-5&amp;_nc_sid=18de74&amp;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiQ0FST1VTRUxfSVRFTS5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&amp;_nc_ohc=KMKsWYmA5-IQ7kNvwGrCvI9&amp;_nc_oc=Ado4JXKlROsP7DztjGhEittnK96c5VCFDzPDvyKyjSknlUv5O3YUGd3MHzC8UOOit_8&amp;_nc_zt=23&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&amp;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&amp;_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&amp;_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQKFQgBAveUSBwchKvV55J-JH95R6PgJ6lzyZNGHimG7MoBrEHDou7VYLLKz3rQkJcHePZ-XtWeb6w&amp;oh=00_AQIGhOMIxu5UaJlaH2RVQ7hgZuP35VSh7ykzp_FDaLdPtw&amp;oe=6AA233F5&quot;,&quot;640&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/scontent.cdninstagram.com\/v\/t51.82787-15\/589186710_18515858608071382_4153758622938855550_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&amp;_nc_cat=100&amp;ccb=7-5&amp;_nc_sid=18de74&amp;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiQ0FST1VTRUxfSVRFTS5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&amp;_nc_ohc=KMKsWYmA5-IQ7kNvwGrCvI9&amp;_nc_oc=Ado4JXKlROsP7DztjGhEittnK96c5VCFDzPDvyKyjSknlUv5O3YUGd3MHzC8UOOit_8&amp;_nc_zt=23&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&amp;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&amp;_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&amp;_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQKFQgBAveUSBwchKvV55J-JH95R6PgJ6lzyZNGHimG7MoBrEHDou7VYLLKz3rQkJcHePZ-XtWeb6w&amp;oh=00_AQIGhOMIxu5UaJlaH2RVQ7hgZuP35VSh7ykzp_FDaLdPtw&amp;oe=6AA233F5&quot;}">
619            <span class="sbi-screenreader">December 2010 found me overwhelmed, exhausted, and</span>
620            <svg class="svg-inline--fa fa-clone fa-w-16 sbi_lightbox_carousel_icon" aria-hidden="true" aria-label="Clone" data-fa-proƒcessed="" data-prefix="far" data-icon="clone" role="img" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512">
621	                <path fill="currentColor" d="M464 0H144c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48v48H48c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48v320c0 26.51 21.49 48 48 48h320c26.51 0 48-21.49 48-48v-48h48c26.51 0 48-21.49 48-48V48c0-26.51-21.49-48-48-48zM362 464H54a6 6 0 0 1-6-6V150a6 6 0 0 1 6-6h42v224c0 26.51 21.49 48 48 48h224v42a6 6 0 0 1-6 6zm96-96H150a6 6 0 0 1-6-6V54a6 6 0 0 1 6-6h308a6 6 0 0 1 6 6v308a6 6 0 0 1-6 6z"></path>
622	            </svg>	                    <img decoding="async" src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed/img/placeholder.png" alt="December 2010 found me overwhelmed, exhausted, and running on empty. One tiny moment — my child’s burst of joy — brought me back to myself.
623
624It reminded me of this truth: You are allowed to receive love, joy, and rest — not just give it.
625
626If holiday stress, anxiety, or emotional fatigue has you pushing toward the finish line, please remember:

627this is your life.
628
Your story is still unfolding, still capable of softness, still open to joy.
629
630I wrote a new essay in Rachel’s Treehouse on how to feel heard and bring self-compassion into December. Click the link in stories or comment RECEIVE if you’d like to read it. 
631
632My hand in yours, 
633Rachel 
634
635As always, please leave a heart if you are here. It helps to know we are not alone this December. 
636
637#onlovetoday">
638        </a>
639    </div>
640</div><div class="sbi_item sbi_type_carousel sbi_new sbi_transition" id="sbi_17940904221001158" data-date="1764180208">
641    <div class="sbi_photo_wrap">
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643            <span class="sbi-screenreader">During a very difficult season, I invited everyone</span>
644            <svg class="svg-inline--fa fa-clone fa-w-16 sbi_lightbox_carousel_icon" aria-hidden="true" aria-label="Clone" data-fa-proƒcessed="" data-prefix="far" data-icon="clone" role="img" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512">
645	                <path fill="currentColor" d="M464 0H144c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48v48H48c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48v320c0 26.51 21.49 48 48 48h320c26.51 0 48-21.49 48-48v-48h48c26.51 0 48-21.49 48-48V48c0-26.51-21.49-48-48-48zM362 464H54a6 6 0 0 1-6-6V150a6 6 0 0 1 6-6h42v224c0 26.51 21.49 48 48 48h224v42a6 6 0 0 1-6 6zm96-96H150a6 6 0 0 1-6-6V54a6 6 0 0 1 6-6h308a6 6 0 0 1 6 6v308a6 6 0 0 1-6 6z"></path>
646	            </svg>	                    <img decoding="async" src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed/img/placeholder.png" alt="During a very difficult season, I invited everyone at our Thanksgiving table to share one thing they were grateful for. I remember holding my breath while trusting that whatever emerged—messy, honest, tender, real—was worthy of being heard.
647
648That moment taught me something I now know for sure:

649When we make room for grief, we make room for our humanity… and for the humanity of those we love.
650
651That’s where healing begins.

652If you’d like to read more, I wrote about this more deeply in my latest Treehouse essay. Link in stories or comment SPACE, and I’ll send it to you.

653My hand in yours,
654Rachel 
655
656🩵 Please know how grateful I am for everyone in this community. Thank you for letting me know how my words have felt like support to you this year. It means more than I can say.">
657        </a>
658    </div>
659</div><div class="sbi_item sbi_type_carousel sbi_new sbi_transition" id="sbi_18129694531495949" data-date="1763855058">
660    <div class="sbi_photo_wrap">
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662            <span class="sbi-screenreader">Let this be your reminder:
663You don’t have to dis</span>
664            <svg class="svg-inline--fa fa-clone fa-w-16 sbi_lightbox_carousel_icon" aria-hidden="true" aria-label="Clone" data-fa-proƒcessed="" data-prefix="far" data-icon="clone" role="img" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512">
665	                <path fill="currentColor" d="M464 0H144c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48v48H48c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48v320c0 26.51 21.49 48 48 48h320c26.51 0 48-21.49 48-48v-48h48c26.51 0 48-21.49 48-48V48c0-26.51-21.49-48-48-48zM362 464H54a6 6 0 0 1-6-6V150a6 6 0 0 1 6-6h42v224c0 26.51 21.49 48 48 48h224v42a6 6 0 0 1-6 6zm96-96H150a6 6 0 0 1-6-6V54a6 6 0 0 1 6-6h308a6 6 0 0 1 6 6v308a6 6 0 0 1-6 6z"></path>
666	            </svg>	                    <img decoding="async" src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed/img/placeholder.png" alt="Let this be your reminder:
667You don’t have to disappear to keep the peace.
668
You don’t have to abandon yourself to belong.
669
You don’t have to hold the whole room to be worthy of love.
670
671Only Love Today means turning some of that love inward —
toward the parts of you that fall back into old patterns during the holidays, the parts that brace, perform, shrink, or overgive.
672
673This reminder is for anyone learning to stay true to themselves while still loving the people around them.
674
Only love today… 
675and in the week ahead.
676
677My hand in yours, 
678Rachel">
679        </a>
680    </div>
681</div><div class="sbi_item sbi_type_image sbi_new sbi_transition" id="sbi_18160535425398675" data-date="1763647552">
682    <div class="sbi_photo_wrap">
683        <a class="sbi_photo" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DRR-_IuDWbN/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" data-full-res="https://scontent.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.82787-15/583832754_18513739714071382_7032423424164748731_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&#038;_nc_cat=108&#038;ccb=7-5&#038;_nc_sid=18de74&#038;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiRkVFRC5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&#038;_nc_ohc=qNjGHV-I0tgQ7kNvwF0qqm2&#038;_nc_oc=Adpik7i8x2gH3oOheoxjFqLFbtgEqwtHOuP9s6688rwb_wiNIp_Fz76_TCyYIxzncus&#038;_nc_zt=23&#038;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&#038;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&#038;_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&#038;_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQKZjomMyzh0PCnaj-c9NYGKK9NEfvuJgegcDtss-C-twbY-eqNs3i8veqLpXys6-mn1tUSZ8dxXDQ&#038;oh=00_AQKwGR-b-lnRXLZSU483U-lzGCSZEc-9-gWGZmdD-5zEvA&#038;oe=6AA23777" data-img-src-set="{&quot;d&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/scontent.cdninstagram.com\/v\/t51.82787-15\/583832754_18513739714071382_7032423424164748731_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&amp;_nc_cat=108&amp;ccb=7-5&amp;_nc_sid=18de74&amp;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiRkVFRC5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&amp;_nc_ohc=qNjGHV-I0tgQ7kNvwF0qqm2&amp;_nc_oc=Adpik7i8x2gH3oOheoxjFqLFbtgEqwtHOuP9s6688rwb_wiNIp_Fz76_TCyYIxzncus&amp;_nc_zt=23&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&amp;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&amp;
683_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&amp;_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQKZjomMyzh0PCnaj-c9NYGKK9NEfvuJgegcDtss-C-twbY-eqNs3i8veqLpXys6-mn1tUSZ8dxXDQ&amp;oh=00_AQKwGR-b-lnRXLZSU483U-lzGCSZEc-9-gWGZmdD-5zEvA&amp;oe=6AA23777&quot;,&quot;150&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/scontent.cdninstagram.com\/v\/t51.82787-15\/583832754_18513739714071382_7032423424164748731_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&amp;_nc_cat=108&amp;ccb=7-5&amp;_nc_sid=18de74&amp;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiRkVFRC5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&amp;_nc_ohc=qNjGHV-I0tgQ7kNvwF0qqm2&amp;_nc_oc=Adpik7i8x2gH3oOheoxjFqLFbtgEqwtHOuP9s6688rwb_wiNIp_Fz76_TCyYIxzncus&amp;_nc_zt=23&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&amp;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&amp;_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&amp;_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQKZjomMyzh0PCnaj-c9NYGKK9NEfvuJgegcDtss-C-twbY-eqNs3i8veqLpXys6-mn1tUSZ8dxXDQ&amp;oh=00_AQKwGR-b-lnRXLZSU483U-lzGCSZEc-9-gWGZmdD-5zEvA&amp;oe=6AA23777&quot;,&quot;320&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/scontent.cdninstagram.com\/v\/t51.82787-15\/583832754_18513739714071382_7032423424164748731_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&amp;_nc_cat=108&amp;ccb=7-5&amp;_nc_sid=18de74&amp;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiRkVFRC5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&amp;_nc_ohc=qNjGHV-I0tgQ7kNvwF0qqm2&amp;_nc_oc=Adpik7i8x2gH3oOheoxjFqLFbtgEqwtHOuP9s6688rwb_wiNIp_Fz76_TCyYIxzncus&amp;_nc_zt=23&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&amp;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&amp;_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&amp;_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQKZjomMyzh0PCnaj-c9NYGKK9NEfvuJgegcDtss-C-twbY-eqNs3i8veqLpXys6-mn1tUSZ8dxXDQ&amp;oh=00_AQKwGR-b-lnRXLZSU483U-lzGCSZEc-9-gWGZmdD-5zEvA&amp;oe=6AA23777&quot;,&quot;640&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/scontent.cdninstagram.com\/v\/t51.82787-15\/583832754_18513739714071382_7032423424164748731_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&amp;_nc_cat=108&amp;ccb=7-5&amp;_nc_sid=18de74&amp;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiRkVFRC5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&amp;_nc_ohc=qNjGHV-I0tgQ7kNvwF0qqm2&amp;_nc_oc=Adpik7i8x2gH3oOheoxjFqLFbtgEqwtHOuP9s6688rwb_wiNIp_Fz76_TCyYIxzncus&amp;_nc_zt=23&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&amp;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&amp;_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&amp;_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQKZjomMyzh0PCnaj-c9NYGKK9NEfvuJgegcDtss-C-twbY-eqNs3i8veqLpXys6-mn1tUSZ8dxXDQ&amp;oh=00_AQKwGR-b-lnRXLZSU483U-lzGCSZEc-9-gWGZmdD-5zEvA&amp;oe=6AA23777&quot;}">
684            <span class="sbi-screenreader"></span>
685            	                    <img decoding="async" src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed/img/placeholder.png" alt="Let no one tell you your efforts don’t matter.
686
Because they are wrong.
687
688To ease pain is everything.

And if you touch even one life through your actions, one is enough.

689I say this as someone who learned a lot
when I finally stopped trying to convince people who were never meant to understand.

690The quiet inner nudges,
the ones with no words,
only truth—
that’s what needed my trust,
not the naysayers.

691Go where your heart indicates your presence is needed.
Trust what you feel, even if you can’t explain it yet.

692My hand in yours,
Rachel">
693        </a>
694    </div>
695</div><div class="sbi_item sbi_type_carousel sbi_new sbi_transition" id="sbi_18179326966362121" data-date="1763483361">
696    <div class="sbi_photo_wrap">
697        <a class="sbi_photo" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DRNF0V0DeFj/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" data-full-res="https://scontent.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.82787-15/582420675_18513485275071382_8201124554119894005_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&#038;_nc_cat=105&#038;ccb=7-5&#038;_nc_sid=18de74&#038;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiQ0FST1VTRUxfSVRFTS5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&#038;_nc_ohc=LzxaP5FylccQ7kNvwHvM70p&#038;_nc_oc=AdrU9iW9KzTD6ikE3BU-qYpAOmLfTYNHbV9WRjnstydBw0clF9EUTIrmiPLInqMNIQk&#038;_nc_zt=23&#038;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&#038;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&#038;_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&#038;_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQJ7RUmkCJkZlDzr9OJtZR23KiUq3WRP0vqQJLbd31QRRBLxrTA4UNzRUPDVm_GVTBypfhifwDvmrA&#038;oh=00_AQIaedSuJZqkL6JotQw6pPmpMck-MFgolU1NLRau0fVnbg&#038;oe=6AA248B4" data-img-src-set="{&quot;d&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/scontent.cdninstagram.com\/v\/t51.82787-15\/582420675_18513485275071382_8201124554119894005_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&amp;_nc_cat=105&amp;ccb=7-5&amp;_nc_sid=18de74&amp;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiQ0FST1VTRUxfSVRFTS5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&amp;_nc_ohc=LzxaP5FylccQ7kNvwHvM70p&amp;_nc_oc=AdrU9iW9KzTD6ikE3BU-qYpAOmLfTYNHbV9WRjnstydBw0clF9EUTIrmiPLInqMNIQk&amp;_nc_zt=23&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&amp;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&amp;
697_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&amp;_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQJ7RUmkCJkZlDzr9OJtZR23KiUq3WRP0vqQJLbd31QRRBLxrTA4UNzRUPDVm_GVTBypfhifwDvmrA&amp;oh=00_AQIaedSuJZqkL6JotQw6pPmpMck-MFgolU1NLRau0fVnbg&amp;oe=6AA248B4&quot;,&quot;150&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/scontent.cdninstagram.com\/v\/t51.82787-15\/582420675_18513485275071382_8201124554119894005_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&amp;_nc_cat=105&amp;ccb=7-5&amp;_nc_sid=18de74&amp;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiQ0FST1VTRUxfSVRFTS5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&amp;_nc_ohc=LzxaP5FylccQ7kNvwHvM70p&amp;_nc_oc=AdrU9iW9KzTD6ikE3BU-qYpAOmLfTYNHbV9WRjnstydBw0clF9EUTIrmiPLInqMNIQk&amp;_nc_zt=23&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&amp;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&amp;_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&amp;_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQJ7RUmkCJkZlDzr9OJtZR23KiUq3WRP0vqQJLbd31QRRBLxrTA4UNzRUPDVm_GVTBypfhifwDvmrA&amp;oh=00_AQIaedSuJZqkL6JotQw6pPmpMck-MFgolU1NLRau0fVnbg&amp;oe=6AA248B4&quot;,&quot;320&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/scontent.cdninstagram.com\/v\/t51.82787-15\/582420675_18513485275071382_8201124554119894005_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&amp;_nc_cat=105&amp;ccb=7-5&amp;_nc_sid=18de74&amp;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiQ0FST1VTRUxfSVRFTS5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&amp;_nc_ohc=LzxaP5FylccQ7kNvwHvM70p&amp;_nc_oc=AdrU9iW9KzTD6ikE3BU-qYpAOmLfTYNHbV9WRjnstydBw0clF9EUTIrmiPLInqMNIQk&amp;_nc_zt=23&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&amp;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&amp;_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&amp;_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQJ7RUmkCJkZlDzr9OJtZR23KiUq3WRP0vqQJLbd31QRRBLxrTA4UNzRUPDVm_GVTBypfhifwDvmrA&amp;oh=00_AQIaedSuJZqkL6JotQw6pPmpMck-MFgolU1NLRau0fVnbg&amp;oe=6AA248B4&quot;,&quot;640&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/scontent.cdninstagram.com\/v\/t51.82787-15\/582420675_18513485275071382_8201124554119894005_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&amp;_nc_cat=105&amp;ccb=7-5&amp;_nc_sid=18de74&amp;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiQ0FST1VTRUxfSVRFTS5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&amp;_nc_ohc=LzxaP5FylccQ7kNvwHvM70p&amp;_nc_oc=AdrU9iW9KzTD6ikE3BU-qYpAOmLfTYNHbV9WRjnstydBw0clF9EUTIrmiPLInqMNIQk&amp;_nc_zt=23&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&amp;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&amp;_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&amp;_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQJ7RUmkCJkZlDzr9OJtZR23KiUq3WRP0vqQJLbd31QRRBLxrTA4UNzRUPDVm_GVTBypfhifwDvmrA&amp;oh=00_AQIaedSuJZqkL6JotQw6pPmpMck-MFgolU1NLRau0fVnbg&amp;oe=6AA248B4&quot;}">
698            <span class="sbi-screenreader">I thought it was a reflection in the glass. 

</span>
699            <svg class="svg-inline--fa fa-clone fa-w-16 sbi_lightbox_carousel_icon" aria-hidden="true" aria-label="Clone" data-fa-proƒcessed="" data-prefix="far" data-icon="clone" role="img" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512">
700	                <path fill="currentColor" d="M464 0H144c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48v48H48c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48v320c0 26.51 21.49 48 48 48h320c26.51 0 48-21.49 48-48v-48h48c26.51 0 48-21.49 48-48V48c0-26.51-21.49-48-48-48zM362 464H54a6 6 0 0 1-6-6V150a6 6 0 0 1 6-6h42v224c0 26.51 21.49 48 48 48h224v42a6 6 0 0 1-6 6zm96-96H150a6 6 0 0 1-6-6V54a6 6 0 0 1 6-6h308a6 6 0 0 1 6 6v308a6 6 0 0 1-6 6z"></path>
701	            </svg>	                    <img decoding="async" src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed/img/placeholder.png" alt="I thought it was a reflection in the glass. 

Surely, it couldn’t be a tiny rainbow. The sky was nothing but clear blue and sunshine.
702 
703So, I got out of my car to investigate. 
704Sure enough, it really was a rainbow wedge just waiting to be spotted.
705 
706I felt this surprising sense of relief that I’d witnessed it.

I know… that probably sounds strange.
707
@dermotkennedy has this line in his song “Lost.” He sings, 
708 
709“My sense of wonder is just a little tired.”

That’s how I’ve been feeling this fall – 
like my wonder has grown weary.
710 
711I love that the very next line in the song is this:
712 
713“But if only you could see yourself in my eyes, 
714you’d see you shine, 
you shine.”
715 
716I saw Dermot perform this song a cappella a month ago. I stood on the floor of a packed venue with tears sliding down my cheeks. Every single person in the room knew the lyrics. For 3 minutes and 45 seconds, there was no “othering” – just us. All of us, together.
717 
718I wanted to write about that moment, but it felt too small in the grand scheme of things.

The
718n yesterday, after posting here for the first time in a while, a friend reached out. 

She trusted me with something really tough she’s going through.
719 
720And I was so grateful she told me 
721because if she could see herself in my eyes, 
722she’d see she shines, 
she shines. 
723 
724And I told her so.
725 
726A few hours later, I saw that tiny rainbow in that clear blue sky, 
727and my childlike wonder, the one that had gone dormant, was revived.
728 
729I heard myself say, wow.
730
And suddenly, in the grand scheme of things, 
it didn’t feel insignificant at all,
like maybe this pocket-sized rainbow was something 
my friend needed,
731we all needed, 
in this tender season of weary wonder.
732
733Let’s keep looking. 
734
735Let’s keep sharing. 
736
737The smallest things hold us together.
738
My hand in yours,
Rachel 
739
740🌈 What tiny marvels have you witnessed lately? In my Treehouse, I call these stories hope scrolls - as opposed to doom scroll - and they really can lift the human spirit.">
741        </a>
742    </div>
743</div><div class="sbi_item sbi_type_carousel sbi_new sbi_transition" id="sbi_18086146447961629" data-date="1763396146">
744    <div class="sbi_photo_wrap">
745        <a class="sbi_photo" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DRKfd-KDahm/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow" data-full-res="https://scontent.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.82787-15/582604023_18513346828071382_1458635648208400448_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&#038;_nc_cat=103&#038;ccb=7-5&#038;_nc_sid=18de74&#038;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiQ0FST1VTRUxfSVRFTS5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&#038;_nc_ohc=UDwFOVgJbqgQ7kNvwHgVLA3&#038;_nc_oc=AdpmQCCeErbg2qOsfHXO_mmZO8CjCAmHVfMv9BThl7POBZP5OtKgp54MFpav5frumio&#038;_nc_zt=23&#038;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&#038;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&#038;_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&#038;
745_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQLkTmvp5WOXhxJPTeXzj5Ds5uqUE7M5X-CKoill-nALWISMOZSP7H0GoT0yUUWWQ7ab5OIvHnbV5Q&#038;oh=00_AQILBn4y3rAoEJLJdXUeOY9n8ZlefiB_tusmb_S6MPPFng&#038;oe=6AA244E1" data-img-src-set="{&quot;d&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/scontent.cdninstagram.com\/v\/t51.82787-15\/582604023_18513346828071382_1458635648208400448_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&amp;_nc_cat=103&amp;ccb=7-5&amp;_nc_sid=18de74&amp;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiQ0FST1VTRUxfSVRFTS5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&amp;_nc_ohc=UDwFOVgJbqgQ7kNvwHgVLA3&amp;_nc_oc=AdpmQCCeErbg2qOsfHXO_mmZO8CjCAmHVfMv9BThl7POBZP5OtKgp54MFpav5frumio&amp;_nc_zt=23&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&amp;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&amp;_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&amp;_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQLkTmvp5WOXhxJPTeXzj5Ds5uqUE7M5X-CKoill-nALWISMOZSP7H0GoT0yUUWWQ7ab5OIvHnbV5Q&amp;oh=00_AQILBn4y3rAoEJLJdXUeOY9n8ZlefiB_tusmb_S6MPPFng&amp;oe=6AA244E1&quot;,&quot;150&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/scontent.cdninstagram.com\/v\/t51.82787-15\/582604023_18513346828071382_1458635648208400448_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&amp;_nc_cat=103&amp;ccb=7-5&amp;_nc_sid=18de74&amp;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiQ0FST1VTRUxfSVRFTS5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&amp;_nc_ohc=UDwFOVgJbqgQ7kNvwHgVLA3&amp;_nc_oc=AdpmQCCeErbg2qOsfHXO_mmZO8CjCAmHVfMv9BThl7POBZP5OtKgp54MFpav5frumio&amp;_nc_zt=23&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&amp;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&amp;_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&amp;
745_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQLkTmvp5WOXhxJPTeXzj5Ds5uqUE7M5X-CKoill-nALWISMOZSP7H0GoT0yUUWWQ7ab5OIvHnbV5Q&amp;oh=00_AQILBn4y3rAoEJLJdXUeOY9n8ZlefiB_tusmb_S6MPPFng&amp;oe=6AA244E1&quot;,&quot;320&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/scontent.cdninstagram.com\/v\/t51.82787-15\/582604023_18513346828071382_1458635648208400448_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&amp;_nc_cat=103&amp;ccb=7-5&amp;_nc_sid=18de74&amp;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiQ0FST1VTRUxfSVRFTS5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&amp;_nc_ohc=UDwFOVgJbqgQ7kNvwHgVLA3&amp;_nc_oc=AdpmQCCeErbg2qOsfHXO_mmZO8CjCAmHVfMv9BThl7POBZP5OtKgp54MFpav5frumio&amp;_nc_zt=23&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&amp;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&amp;_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&amp;_nc_tpa=Q5bMBQLkTmvp5WOXhxJPTeXzj5Ds5uqUE7M5X-CKoill-nALWISMOZSP7H0GoT0yUUWWQ7ab5OIvHnbV5Q&amp;oh=00_AQILBn4y3rAoEJLJdXUeOY9n8ZlefiB_tusmb_S6MPPFng&amp;oe=6AA244E1&quot;,&quot;640&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/scontent.cdninstagram.com\/v\/t51.82787-15\/582604023_18513346828071382_1458635648208400448_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&amp;_nc_cat=103&amp;ccb=7-5&amp;_nc_sid=18de74&amp;efg=eyJlZmdfdGFnIjoiQ0FST1VTRUxfSVRFTS5iZXN0X2ltYWdlX3VybGdlbi5DMyJ9&amp;_nc_ohc=UDwFOVgJbqgQ7kNvwHgVLA3&amp;_nc_oc=AdpmQCCeErbg2qOsfHXO_mmZO8CjCAmHVfMv9BThl7POBZP5OtKgp54MFpav5frumio&amp;_nc_zt=23&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&amp;edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&amp;_nc_gid=uj1b7dhCFV-MDbfVmwHyOQ&amp;
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746            <span class="sbi-screenreader">“I saw my openness, my trust, my over-kindness n</span>
747            <svg class="svg-inline--fa fa-clone fa-w-16 sbi_lightbox_carousel_icon" aria-hidden="true" aria-label="Clone" data-fa-proƒcessed="" data-prefix="far" data-icon="clone" role="img" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512">
748	                <path fill="currentColor" d="M464 0H144c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48v48H48c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48v320c0 26.51 21.49 48 48 48h320c26.51 0 48-21.49 48-48v-48h48c26.51 0 48-21.49 48-48V48c0-26.51-21.49-48-48-48zM362 464H54a6 6 0 0 1-6-6V150a6 6 0 0 1 6-6h42v224c0 26.51 21.49 48 48 48h224v42a6 6 0 0 1-6 6zm96-96H150a6 6 0 0 1-6-6V54a6 6 0 0 1 6-6h308a6 6 0 0 1 6 6v308a6 6 0 0 1-6 6z"></path>
749	            </svg>	                    <img decoding="async" src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed/img/placeholder.png" alt="“I saw my openness, my trust, my over-kindness not as gullible or naïve, but as a soft strength worth safeguarding.”

750A reader pulled that line from my recent newsletter and said, “This one really got me.”
751
When I thanked her, she replied,
“I’ve been discussing your essay with my husband all morning. Really timely for me in my healing journey.”
752
753Her words reminded me how many of us move through the world with soft hearts we’ve been taught to doubt, toughen up, or hide.
754
If that’s you, I want you to know you’re not alone.
755
756On a recent flight, I encountered an elderly gentleman who became a mirror — showing me that my softness was never the mistake. I had simply misunderstood it.
757
758It brings me peace to share the moment that helped me reclaim openness, trust, and kindness as a soft strength worth protecting, especially in a world aching for human connection.
759
760Climb my Treehouse ladder and read the full story.
761
Comment SOFTHEART &amp; I’ll send you the link directly or click the link in bio or stories.

My hand in yours,
Rachel
762
763🧡 If you’re here, would you leave a heart, so I know? It’s been a while since I posted here. Your presence means more than you’ll ever know.">
764        </a>
765    </div>
766</div><div class="sbi_item sbi_type_carousel sbi_new sbi_transition" id="sbi_17873413503425153" data-date="1758894679">
767    <div class="sbi_photo_wrap">
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769            <span class="sbi-screenreader">This poem from my book Soul Shift is personal.
770
771I </span>
772            <svg class="svg-inline--fa fa-clone fa-w-16 sbi_lightbox_carousel_icon" aria-hidden="true" aria-label="Clone" data-fa-proƒcessed="" data-prefix="far" data-icon="clone" role="img" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512">
773	                <path fill="currentColor" d="M464 0H144c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48v48H48c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48v320c0 26.51 21.49 48 48 48h320c26.51 0 48-21.49 48-48v-48h48c26.51 0 48-21.49 48-48V48c0-26.51-21.49-48-48-48zM362 464H54a6 6 0 0 1-6-6V150a6 6 0 0 1 6-6h42v224c0 26.51 21.49 48 48 48h224v42a6 6 0 0 1-6 6zm96-96H150a6 6 0 0 1-6-6V54a6 6 0 0 1 6-6h308a6 6 0 0 1 6 6v308a6 6 0 0 1-6 6z"></path>
774	            </svg>	                    <img decoding="async" src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed/img/placeholder.png" alt="This poem from my book Soul Shift is personal.
775
776I wrote it for my students who were shunned.
For women who came to my workshops and said, “This is the first time I haven’t felt invisible.”
And, of course, for little Rachel—
the girl who often wondered if something was wrong with her.
777
778There wasn’t. 
She was just planted in the wrong place.
779
780I’ll never forget the first time I uprooted…
and found HOME among strangers who felt like family.
That moment changed me—
and it’s why I continue to leave my comfort zone to create circles of connection and belonging.

781May you never confuse rejection with unworthiness.
May you keep seeking the conditions where you can thrive.
782
783🌱You are worthy of good soil.
784
My hand in yours,
785Rachel
786
787🍂My final in-person gathering of 2025 is six weeks away… 
788This one’s for the givers. 
789The ones who make it look easy—until they break down. 
790For those who’ve forgotten they are a worthy recipient of their own caregiving. 
I’d love for you to be part of this circle.
791✨ Only Love Today: A Restorative Retreat for Givers 
🗓 November 7–9 @artoflivingboone in the Blue Ridge Mountains ⛰️
792Comment BELONG if you’d like more details.">
793        </a>
794    </div>
795</div>    </div>
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803	    <span class="sbi_resized_image_data" data-feed-id="*1" data-resized="{&quot;17873413503425153&quot;:{&quot;id&quot;:&quot;553362885_18501925516071382_787707361522292015_n&quot;,&quot;ratio&quot;:&quot;0.80&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:{&quot;full&quot;:640,&quot;low&quot;:320,&quot;thumb&quot;:150},&quot;extension&quot;:&quot;.webp&quot;},&quot;18086146447961629&quot;:{&quot;id&quot;:&quot;582604023_18513346828071382_1458635648208400448_n&quot;,&quot;ratio&quot;:&quot;1.00&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:{&quot;full&quot;:640,&quot;low&quot;:320,&quot;thumb&quot;:150},&quot;extension&quot;:&quot;.webp&quot;},&quot;18179326966362121&quot;:{&quot;id&quot;:&quot;582420675_18513485275071382_8201124554119894005_n&quot;,&quot;ratio&quot;:&quot;0.75&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:{&quot;full&quot;:640,&quot;low&quot;:320,&quot;thumb&quot;:150},&quot;extension&quot;:&quot;.webp&quot;},&quot;18160535425398675&quot;:{&quot;id&quot;:&quot;583832754_18513739714071382_7032423424164748731_n&quot;,&quot;ratio&quot;:&quot;1.00&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:{&quot;full&quot;:640,&quot;low&quot;:320,&quot;thumb&quot;:150},&quot;extension&quot;:&quot;.webp&quot;},&quot;18129694531495949&quot;:{&quot;id&quot;:&quot;587686709_18514089118071382_4965631393020069280_n&quot;,&quot;ratio&quot;:&quot;0.80&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:{&quot;full&quot;:640,&quot;low&quot;:320,&quot;thumb&quot;:150},&quot;extension&quot;:&quot;.webp&quot;},&quot;17940904221001158&quot;:{&quot;id&quot;:&quot;584381121_18514634554071382_6033016705957373556_n&quot;,&quot;ratio&quot;:&quot;1.00&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:{&quot;full&quot;:640,&quot;low&quot;:320,&quot;thumb&quot;:150},&quot;extension&quot;:&quot;.webp&quot;},&quot;17927611500159324&quot;:{&quot;id&quot;:&quot;589186710_18515858608071382_4153758622938855550_n&quot;,&quot;ratio&quot;:&quot;1.00&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:{&quot;full&quot;:640,&quot;low&quot;:320,&quot;thumb&quot;:150},&quot;extension&quot;:&quot;.webp&quot;},&quot;17993663933855237&quot;:{&quot;id&quot;:&quot;592470387_18516152941071382_8878268491738557908_n&quot;,&quot;ratio&quot;:&quot;1.00&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:{&quot;full&quot;:640,&quot;low&quot;:320,&quot;thumb&quot;:150},&quot;extension&quot;:&quot;.webp&quot;},&quot;18000150008845968&quot;:{&quot;id&quot;:&quot;588551228_18516790162071382_5574356165847765599_n&quot;,&quot;ratio&quot;:&quot;0.80&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:{&quot;full&quot;:640,&quot;low&quot;:320,&quot;thumb&quot;:150},&quot;extension&quot;:&quot;.webp&quot;}}">
804	</span>
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809		</div></section>
810</div><div class="widget-area footer-widgets-4 footer-widget-area"><section id="text-23" class="widget widget_text"><div class="widget-wrap"><h4 class="widget-title widgettitle">Rachel&#8217;s Treehouse on Substack</h4>
811			<div class="textwidget"><p><a href="https://rachelmacystafford.substack.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-10001" src="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rachels-Treehouse
811-Cover.jpg" alt="Rachel's Treehouse Cover" width="600" height="600" srcset="https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rachels-Treehouse-Cover.jpg 600w, https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rachels-Treehouse-Cover-270x270.jpg 270w, https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rachels-Treehouse-Cover-150x150.jpg 150w, https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rachels-Treehouse-Cover-400x400.jpg 400w, https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rachels-Treehouse-Cover-160x160.jpg 160w, https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rachels-Treehouse-Cover-320x320.jpg 320w, https://www.handsfreemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rachels-Treehouse-Cover-500x500.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></a></p>
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