Episode 006: No Sick Days: When Winter Illness Hits

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Episode Summary 

Hello and welcome to Cultivate Contentment. I'm your host, Jessica Knight. In today’s episode, "No Sick Days: When Winter Illness Hits," I share my recent experience of how winter illnesses impacted my family and our farm life. This winter has been especially harsh with influenza, COVID, and other nasty bugs making the rounds, and it seems like no one is spared. From my kids getting sick one after another to the challenges of running a farm without any sick days, I delve into the struggles many of us face during flu season. 

Winter illnesses bring a unique set of challenges, especially when you’re balancing the demands of motherhood and farm life. I'll talk about the days when it felt like everything was falling apart, yet somehow, we managed to keep things going. You'll hear about our strategies for handling daily chores, caring for sick children, and still finding moments to breathe and take care of myself. This episode is a reminder that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed and that finding small victories in tough times is a part of the journey. 

I open up about our daily life, sharing real stories and tips that have helped us through the worst of it. From stocking up on essentials to learning when to ask for help, I'll give you an honest look at how we survive these difficult seasons. Join me as I recount our experiences and offer practical advice on managing the relentless demands of farm life and motherhood during flu season. 

Lastly, I touch on the common scenario where moms, often the primary caregivers, end up getting sick last. After taking care of everyone else, it's almost inevitable that the exhaustion catches up, and our immune systems take a hit. It’s a tough reminder of the need for self-care and the importance of prioritizing our health, even in the busiest and most stressful times. 

 

In this episode about ‘No Sick Days: When Winter Illness Hits’, we cover: 

  • The Onslaught of Winter Bugs: I discuss the various illnesses that hit our family and all the winter bugs that are hitting this year.

  • Balancing Farm Life and Sickness: Learn about the challenges of keeping the farm running smoothly when everyone is sick and there are no sick days for farmers. 

  • Practical Tips for Coping: I share my top tip for managing illness on the farm and essential supplies to have on hand.

  • Moms Getting Sick Last: Explore why moms often get sick after everyone else, highlighting the importance of self-care and strategies to avoid burnout. 

    Tune in to hear my story and find comfort in knowing you're not alone in these struggles. Stay healthy, stay content, and see you next time. 

 

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Are you a rural farming woman, wife, or mother struggling to find peace in your busy life? Do you find yourself trying to squeeze joy out of your daily routine, manage stress that seems never-ending, and somehow reconnect with your passions in the midst of it all? Do you love your rural life yet often feel overwhelmed by the challenges it brings? 

Welcome to "Cultivate Contentment," the podcast designed just for you. 

I'm Jessica Knight, a fellow rural woman, wife, and mother. I get it—I've been there, right there in the trenches, juggling the demands of farm life, motherhood, and carving out moments to take care of myself.  

I understand the challenges you face every day. From being a first-generation dairy farmer to raising three energetic boys, navigating the ups and downs of rural life. 

Come along with me and my guests as we explore balancing farm life with personal needs on a realistic level, practical ways to sprinkle a little joy and peace into your daily routine, nurturing relationships without losing your sense of self, and how to keep stress at bay and prevent burnout. All while staying focused on what we really want; feeling content and settled in our lives. 

This is a show to delve into the heart of your daily struggles and triumphs, providing practical advice and heartfelt support to help you find peace and contentment in your unique journey. I know how hard it can be to juggle the responsibilities of farm life, motherhood, and personal well-being. "Cultivate Contentment" aims to be your companion and guide, offering insights and strategies that resonate with your experiences. 

So, whether you're savoring a cup of coffee before the morning chaos begins, stealing a moment of quiet on your drive to town, or popping in your earbuds while wrestling with laundry and dishes, I invite you to join me. Let's laugh, learn, and cultivate contentment together. 

Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss a convo! 

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Episode 007. Emily Reuschel on Rural Life, Motherhood and Personal Growth

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Episode 005: When Everything Seems to Go Wrong