More than Unbroken

  I am my own worst critic. My need for validation far outweighs logic in stressful times, so my mind wanders into the old patterns of insecurity, defensiveness, and loneliness. Surely, I am not alone in this struggle. Today, friend, I'm here to share the thoughts that I struggle with and the truth that debunks these myths. No one cares how I feel. This is at the heart of my vulnerability. When I am tired and stressed, life seems to move ahead, and the people I care about seem oblivious to my struggles. This couldn't be further from the truth. As good as I may be at hiding this illogical notion, my husband and mom are usually the first to detect a change. Thankfully, they refuse to leave me alone until I understand just how much they care. Even better, my Father in Heaven sees me in every feeling. Isaiah‬ ‭41‬:‭10‬ ‭says, "Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious r...

  This week, I'll join my younger son and colleagues for a school trip. I love to travel, and even crazy, overnight trips with middle-schoolers can be a great adventure! That being said, here are some ideas for when you have a quick trip with little space. Limit your wardrobe. I cannot stress this one enough! There are some great minimal travel tips for what to include when packing for a trip. This includes jewelry! By selecting a few pieces that you can mix and match, you will save space in your suitcase for the "non-negotiable" items such as cosmetics and any hair tools you may require. In addition, be sure to check the weather, but consider the difference in climate as well. For example, when I visited NYC in October, the temperature was unseasonably warm, but there was significantly less humidity, so I still needed long sleeves at night. Wardrobe considerations should be made well in advance so you aren't scrambling last minute to do laundry. Pack the necessitie...

It's no secret that I have struggled with stress and anxiety on the regular. It's a first-world problem, and typically my shame and guilt drive me further into the rabbit hole. It's true that I am blessed beyond measure. But when I'm stressed beyond reason, these are my go-to moves for dealing with panic attacks. Read a book. Read the Bible. Just read something that will take your mind away from whatever has your heart racing and your eye twitching. Don't enjoy reading? Indulge in a favorite movie or TV show. Nothing serious. Break out the classics or the one movie that always puts you in a better mood. Now, I can't speak on the science behind this, but I personally find comfort in stepping away from my own thoughts and getting lost in a book, audiobook, or favorite TV show. Jam to your favorite tunes. Dance it out. For real! My playlist when I'm blue ranges from positive worship music to favorite songs from my teen years. There are plenty of studies out the...

Here we are! A new, fresh blog to emerge from what began as a journey of healing from a deep place of grief. Over the last six months, I have felt the shift from grief into a desire to present everyday, light-hearted anecdotes, along with some encouragement and inspiration. After some thought and prayer, the transition is happening! Unbroken and Undone will now work alongside this broader view of my crazy, chaotic, beautiful life. The journey is far from over. In fact, this is the logical next step for me. So welcome to More than Unbroken , a blend of everyday life and encouragement. Thanks for joining the journey! © 2024 Jill Cook. All rights reserved.

As each year comes to a close, I like to think back and reflect. Today as you prepare for final holiday gatherings, I challenge you not just to resolve, but reflect.  Here are some thought starters: What was my favorite moment of the year? What challenged me and my family this year? How have I grown? What difference have I made in my world? What surprised me? How do I want to move forward to make a positive impact? How are my needs and the needs of those close to me different now? What relationships have changed and how? What happened this year to make me feel grateful? What is the one thing I would like to do differently in the coming year? And that’s a wrap! In the coming days, I will be re-structuring this page to include lifestyle tips and challenges. The encouragement will still be there, along with practical advice and ideas for everyday life. Thank you for sharing this journey with me for another trip around the sun. Here’s to a blessed and prosperous 2024! © Jill Cook and U...

‘Twas the night before Christmas and long before ten, the house had been emptied of family and friends.  The weather was cold, the presents unwrapped, our bellies were full, no more fun to be had.  How I sat disappointed after everyone left, feeling lonely and tired and, quite frankly, bereft.  Thinking back to the time when the magic was new, it certainly seemed the night was longer, too. The adults would play games, the children had fun, the food would stay out for us to graze upon. Now everyone’s tired, it’s always a rush. There’s almost no time to enjoy for the fuss. My expected fun night had disappeared quick, but reality is never a fanciful trick. The fact is that now in this season of life the expected outcome never happens quite right. As I learn to walk in this awkward new phase, I’m reminded again of a wonderful phrase: The first Christmas was messy, it’s okay if mine is, too, for Jesus just came to save me and you. The food and presents are all very well, but w...

Dear Friends, As the holiday season rushes upon us, I find a need to take a brief hiatus from the weekly blog. I do have something prepared for next weekend and will be sharing it. In the meantime, I hope you will enjoy some of my past posts. I have been overwhelmed with the love and support I have received throughout this endeavor over the last three years and look forward to sharing more stories and encouragement in 2024. My focus in the final days of 2023 will be on this blessed season and savoring moments with my family. May you and your family be blessed as we celebrate this beautiful season. See you in 2024! Love and smiles, Jill P. S. Trust me, the writing isn't going to stop anytime soon, but you may see some changes in context. I will be updating the website and the social media platforms, so be on the lookout!