Kristin Hill Taylor

Seeking God as the Author of Every Story

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Hope at home with Dolphin Island

March 2, 2021 by Kristin Leave a Comment

We were at home a lot in February, thanks to sickness, quarantine, and winter weather. We had school-at-home days for my kids, who are 13, 11, and 5. We pulled out toys the kids hadn’t seen in a while. We scrolled all the streaming services for something new to watch.

And we were thankful for a family-friendly movie I got to screen from the comfort of our couch. My husband, mother-in-law, and I may have liked it more than the kids, but we also were glad for some clean entertainment to share with the youngsters in the house.

“Dolphin Island” is a heartwarming feature film about 14-year-old Annabel who lives with her fisherman grandfather on an island paradise. They operate a nonprofit marine research and conservation center. She is surrounded by an extended family of loving but quirky neighbors and her best friend, a dolphin named Mitzy. Everything changes when her maternal grandparents arrive with a shifty lawyer to bring her back to New York. Annabel and her friends navigate these circumstances to prove that love conquers all.

My kids all reacted like anyone who knows them would expect: Rachel, who is 5, talked about how much she likes dolphins and asked about going to the beach. The 11-year-old Ben liked the action that came with the pirate-like barrister, which of course we had to define as an attorney for him. Cate, the resident teenager, wasn’t so sure about an inspirational film, but she periodically made comments about the main character.

About the movie

This 91-minute movie is available on digital HD on most video-on-demand platforms starting today (March 2). It’s a sweet movie with some adventure mixed in is a good choice for families who want to watch a new movie from the comfort and safety of their own home.

Learn more at IMDB.com and the movie’s website, which includes additional resources such as a downloadable family discussion guide to spark meaningful conversations about courage, forgiveness, and faith. You can also watch the trailer on YouTube. It’s also available to buy or rent at Amazon.

Giveaway

One of you can receive a free digital code for unlimited access to this movie! This giveaway is open to North American residents. Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter to win through Monday, March 8. I’ll announce a winner the following day.

Enter Dolphin Island giveaway here!

PLUS there’s an additional opportunity to win VIP access to “Dolphin Island” directly from the filmmakers. (Enter that giveaway here!) AND everyone who enters my giveaway with an email address will get a screen link to watch the movie.

*****

Many thanks to Entertainment Squad for providing this screener link for my family to review the movie. Opinions are 100 percent our own and not influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive the screen link and digital access to the movie in exchange for this review and post.

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Stories from the Porch in December

December 30, 2019 by Kristin 6 Comments

“If I try to force this season to look like my last one, I miss out on the unique beauty of this one and I miss the opportunity to use all that He taught me then, now.” Speaker/encourager Emma Mae Jenkins posted this earlier this month and it struck me deeply because it’s what I’d been missing in appreciating seasons.

God has been teaching me about seasons and the value in rhythm, even during changes. But I was holding on too tightly, trying to replicate previous seasons. God has made each season beautiful and appropriate in its own time. Yes, spring, summer, fall, and winter repeat, but each spring looks different than the one before because God has transformed me. I’m not the same this year. Grieving in the summer seemed unnatural, and now here I am in winter finding myself again. There can be similarities and traditions, but the details change from one season to the next, from one year to the next. That’s both wonderful and terrifying.

Yet here I am at the end of a hard year knowing I’ve been transformed for the better. Here I am saying I’m thankful for seasons.

Nothing in this life stays the same. That almost seems like a threat, but really it’s a promise too. Our God won’t leave us where we were in the winter by the time springs starts blooming new life. Here’s to the seasons we lived in 2019 and the ones to come in 2020.

Highlights

Some of our favorite Christmas traditions happened in the same weekend at the beginning of December. We went on our annual tree hunt on our property and found a good evergreen to bring into the living room. We did this between the huge extended family brunch and the town’s parade later in the evening. We ended the festive night with Santa at the Murray State basketball game.

Then Sunday of that weekend, Greg and I went to see Andrew Peterson’s Behold the Lamb of God concert with three friend couples. We had dinner before the show.

For years, I’ve heard about Behold the Lamb of God. I’ve listened to the music, first on a CD and then imported to iTunes. I knew he invited lots of friends onto stage, but it wasn’t until I sat in the Ryman Auditorium balcony on that Sunday night that I witnessed a community of musicians.

Andrew Peterson wrote these songs and invited others to share them. Together they tell the story of our need for Jesus, a savior’s birth, and our rescue. He could sing these songs alone, but there’s power in letting go and welcoming others in. The voices and instruments came together to make something even more lovely.

Those people who were on stage are talented. Their bios are about writing songs and accompanying and touring with famous names. But they shared the spotlight and gave God the glory. They brought us to the throne and sent us on our way with hearts fuller than they were three hours earlier.

It was such a sweet start to the Christmas season. We also had a day at Greg’s mom’s house with his brothers and their families. Then we spent a few days in Louisville with my family. I was glad to be able to see aunts, uncles, and cousins from both sides of my family.

We came home on Christmas Eve and have enjoyed some slow days together – or mostly together. Cate was quarantined in her room for a few days, thanks to the flu.

Favorite things

Reflect and Refresh — I joined my friend Kayse Pratt from Anchored Women for this eight-day Instagram challenge that prompted me to slow down to look back on 2019 and toward 2020. You can read the posts when you scroll back on Instagram or Facebook.

Middle school basketball — My seventh-grader and two of her middle school friends are playing on our little school’s first-ever middle school girls’ team. They had their first two games this month and they were so fun. There’s a lot to be learned about playing basketball, but I’m so thankful for Cate’s bravery to try something new. Ben is playing with the younger kids and has games starting in January.

Top Nine from 2019 — I love the website that makes a grid of the top nine liked photos from my Instagram account. These days my big kids are way more picky about me taking their picture. Of course I do, and sometimes I post them. Y’all apparently like when I do. My #topnine of the year includes multiple big kid photos.

Other observations: Y’all also we’re excited we got to meet University of Kentucky Coach John Calipari at the Jockey Being Family Gala in Lake Geneva (center photo). We love our Racers and road-trip friends, so I’m glad y’all do too (left center and bottom right). And, yes, Animal Kingdom is still my favorite Disney Park park. Thanks for liking our roaring faces (bottom left). I love capturing memories and am grateful y’all humor me with your likes, comments, and willingness to follow along. I know, it seems impossible this year marked knowing Greg for 21 years and being married for 17 years of those (top left).

From the bookshelf

“The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry” by John Mark Comer — I mentioned this book last month, but it’s worth mentioning again now that I’m finished with it. Written by a fellow Enneagram 1, Type A person, I really appreciated how he shares about living a slower life, which actually leads to a more fulfilled life. I have so much to learn in this area and am inspired by his words and practices. This is one of those books I’ll think back on for a long time to come, especially as I work on developing some healthy habits entering in the new year.

Okay, how about one quote from this book?

“Jesus’ schedule was full. To the brim at times. In a good way. Yet he never came off hurried. This rootedness in the moment and connectedness to God, other people, and himself weren’t the by-products of a laid-back personality or pre-Wi-Fi world; they were the outgrowths of a way of life. A whole new way to be human that Jesus put on display in story after story. … He put on display an unhurried life, where space for God and love for people were the top priorities, and because he said yes to the Father and his kingdom, he constantly said no to countless other invitations. Then he turned around and said, ‘Follow me.’”

“Regretting You” by Colleen Hoover — I wanted to read this the day it came out, but I waited about 10 days because I knew I’d devour it quickly. I did, and I really enjoyed it during this Christmas weekend. It’s a story about complicated grief, first love, and how people are connected. I loved it being told through alternating perspectives of a mom and daughter. I related to being angry with someone when his death revealed secrets and how it’s tricky to remember the good parts. I’ve read seven Colleen Hoover books this year, all since this summer. Discovering her was definitely a favorite part of my year.

I shared all the books I’ve read this year in a post last week. {THE BOOKS OF 2019!} Plus, many of the recommended reads are linked on Amazon.

On the screen

“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” — Greg and I watched the third season of this show. We could do without the cursing and really think in the 1950s people like the characters wouldn’t cuss so much, but otherwise we really love the show.

“Noelle” — This movie streaming on Disney+ was really cute. We watched it as a family one night before Christmas and especially enjoyed all the holiday puns.

“Holiday in the Wild” – Greg and I watched this Christmas movie on Netflix. It has Rob Lowe, Kristin Davis, and a sweet storyline involving elephants in Africa.

*****

Kristin Hill Taylor - Porch Stories

Here are #PorchStories from the earlier months this year: January. February. March. April. May. June. July. August. September. October. November.

In an effort to re-adjust priorities in my home and heart, #PorchStories will look different in 2020. I still plan to write and share stories here, but there won’t be a monthly linkup. I’m going to miss that opportunity for community, but I know stepping back for now is the right thing. I do still hope you’ll gather and share at the virtual porch on Facebook.

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Overcomer – a movie & a message

December 9, 2019 by Kristin Leave a Comment

Race finish lines make me teary – and I’m not usually the one running. I’ve run a few 5K races, and I only liked them because there’s victory in crossing the finish line. More often these days, I stand near the finish line with my fourth-grade son finishes his mile races as part of his school’s running club. And I get teary every time, even watching kids I don’t know finish.

Of course, I got teary when I watched “Overcomer” too.

My family of five watched “Overcomer” in September in our local movie theater and all enjoyed it. My 12-year-old Cate was inspired enough from the movie to join the running club at school. And my youngest, Rachel, who wasn’t quite four at the time, even liked it and later referred to it as “the Hannah movie,” referencing the young runner at the center of the story. My husband and I loved being able to take our kids to a movie that everyone could enjoy and also offered meaningful faith lessons.

About the movie

“Overcomer” is an inspiration, family-friendly sports drama created by Alex Kendrick, the actor/writer/director also behind “War Room” and “Courageous.” The digital version was released Nov. 26 and the Blu-ray and DVD comes out Dec. 17 from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, AFFIRM Films and Provident Films. The movie stars Priscilla Shirer (“War Room” and “I Can Only Imagine”), Shari Rigby (“October Baby” and Wildflower”), Cameron Arnett (“Meet the Browns” and “Stand Your Ground”) and newcomer Aryn Wright-Thompson.

This movie received a 98% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes and now is available in time for holiday gifting.

In “Overcomer,” life changes overnight for coach John Harrison (Kendrick) after he loses his basketball team and is challenged by the school’s principal (Shirer) to coach a new sport he doesn’t know or like. As John questions his own worth, he dares to help the least likely runner take on the biggest race of the year. Filled with a powerful mix of faith, humor, and heart, this inspirational story will have you on the edge of your seat.

The Blu-ray, DVD, and digital release come with an extensive array of bonus material, including 10 minutes of extended and deleted scenes, fun bloopers, exclusive commentary by Director Alex Kendrick and Producer Stephen Kendrick, and in-depth looks at the power of forgiveness and identity. During these features, viewers can learn about how the crew worked together with faith and prayer to create this incredible film, hear the cast and crew discuss what the theme of identity means to them, and enjoy the lip-sync music video for Mandisa’s popular song “Overcomer.” The Blu-ray and digital versions have additional exclusive content, including segments about how the stunning opening drone shot of the film was realized with a lot of ingenuity and a well-organized crew and how Alex, Stephen, and Shannon Kendrick found their path to filmmaking through authenticity and faith; behind-the-scene looks at editing, composing, coloring, and sound design; and a lyric video for “Enough” featuring Koryn Hawthorne.

For more information, visit the movie’s Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and website, which also includes resources for churches and families. Of course, it’s available for pre-order and purchase at Amazon.

*****

I received a copy of “Overcomer” on Blu-ray and a signed promotional poster in exchange for a review, but my family of five paid to see the movie in the theaters in September. Thanks to Fly By Promotions for this opportunity.

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About Me

Telling stories is my therapy and I love sharing them with friends on my porch.

The main characters in my stories are my entrepreneur husband, our ninth-grade girl who never forgets, our have-no-fear sixth-grade boy, and our joy-filled kindergarten girl. As we live out our stories, we seek God as the author of them all.

Learn more about my story here.

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Honestly, I probably wouldn’t have picked up thi Honestly, I probably wouldn’t have picked up this book had a dear friend who always comes in clutch with book recommendations let me borrow it. My mind has been swirling this week. Just lots of life happening all around me. 

I picked up this book while Ben was at his counseling appointment and read most of that hour, then again that evening, and then again the next day. This book could be read slowly because the words are lyrical and lovely, but I couldn’t put it down. The scripture, stories, and songs were balm for my soul right when I needed it. 

“Send out your light and your truth; let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy hill and to your dwelling!” — Psalm 43:3

This book is about that invitation from God. Songwriter @sandramccracken  tells us how she’s accepted the invitation, lived in the light, and brought others with her. 

I started taking notes on the very first page, but I will leave you with this, for now:

“There will be a full telling of our stories, a reckoning of every injustice, and a mending of every broken system. This is the good news, the promise of peace, working backward from that future reality, bringing that healing light-filled promise to bear on our lives, to shine on our present sorrow and on our yet-unanswered questions. He is with us. It will be all right in the end. If it’s not okay, then it’s not the end.”

#KHTreads #bookstagram #recommendedreads #livingfaithfully #reallife #choosingJOY #storiesmatter
“Darkness does not define us. It attends to us, “Darkness does not define us. It attends to us, surrounds us in regular intervals, but it does not have the last word. God limits the darkness. He has authority over it and is not bound by it.” 

— @sandramccracken in “Send Out Your Light”

#KHTreads #countryliving #livingfaithfully
What is saving my life … My home is a refuge an What is saving my life …

My home is a refuge and shelter from the loud, crazy world. I love being here. I’m thankful for a break from the routine and busyness. I like a chance to have slow mornings and not much of a plan for the day. I’m also grateful for the chance to host others in our home. 

And, of course, books. I love reading and seeing those around me reading too. Stories are also such a refuge for me. 

#OneDayMay #maydays #reallife #88daysofsummer #choosingJOY #KHTreads #momlife
“Between stimulus and response there is a space. “Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and freedom.” - @brenebrown attributes this quote to Viktor Frankl

Months ago, I made a counseling appointment for today. And it certainly came at the exact right now. 

Honestly, the transition into my favorite season has been rocky — and I’m not totally sure why. I know some circumstances that are contributing to that, and I also know my responses haven’t been what I want them to be. But I’m not entirely sure what to do about it. 

Slowing down, listening to my body and mind, setting boundaries, being honest, and counting the wins and gifts should help. At least those are the things my counselor and I discussed when I talked for every minute of our session. Sometimes I go not knowing what we will dive into. Today I knew. She said these were good conversations. She reminded me of what I know to be true, that what I’m doing matters. Intentional parenting matters every single day even though there are no results to quantify. 

Many things are stimuli in my life. Yours too, I’m sure. I don’t leave even space between the chatter, lies, responsibilities, burdens, gifts, and routines to respond kindly and gracefully. I’m quick to be angry and anxious. I want to slow down my brain and give myself more space to truly live. I’m pretty sure that’s the space where God grows pretty things. 

📷: Cate Taylor, 15

#OneDayMay #maydays #livingfaithfully #choosingJOY #reallife #momlife #flowerphotography #summerisbest #88daysofsummer
@emilyhenrywrites is really good at writing romanc @emilyhenrywrites is really good at writing romance novels that go deeper than a cheesy love story. Her characters navigate grief and disappointment that comes with real life. In the cleverly titled “Book Lovers,” Nora and Charlie work through a lot as people and a couple to discover what they’re happy ending looks like. Plus it’s set in a Hallmark-movie-like town that works well for this story for people who love books and lovers. 

#KHTreads #bookstagram #recommendedreads #favoritethings #amreading #Kindlebooks #kindlepaperwhite
Oh, Monday. It’s the first actual week of #88day Oh, Monday. It’s the first actual week of #88daysofsummer and it feels like fall out. That would be lovely, except my people and I were ready for pool time. 

One kid got up way too early and was having all the feels. I subsequently got up way too early and came out of my bedroom ready to implement morning habits and conquer boredom. Nobody else was very excited about my strategy. 

By 10 o’clock this morning, I suggested one kid take a nap and retreated to my own room with my phone, my Kindle, and lots of thoughts. I had a small revelation that helped me better see my kids as the individuals they are. 

I made plans to walk with a friend and later dragged all my kids along. Yep, even the one in a boot and on crutches for at least a few more days. You see, that injured kid also started Summer Break with his third strep diagnosis since February. He certainly needed fresh air after a couple of days stuck inside the house. 

We all needed fresh air, fresh perspectives, and a fresh start to the day. Today the walk outside is what helped. Another day there may be a different strategy, but I’m thankful I found way through all the feelings and disappointments this morning and can feel a little sunshine in my day, even if it’s only the figurative kind of sunshine. 

#momlife #maydays #reallife #kentuckyweather #kyweather #confusedweather #summerisbest #poolpeople #choosingJOY #thirdchild #monday #mondaymood #momconfessions #PorchStories
I miss … … a few particular friends from whom I miss …

… a few particular friends from whom I’m separated by circumstances, logistics, and distances. 

When I make a friend, I intend to stay friends forever. Of course, life doesn’t always work out that way. 

I don’t miss my kids being young, but I miss the ease of socializing with my friends during that season. It was easy then to meet at the park or go somewhere for lunch. Now there are so many schedules to work around. 

Scheduling time to lunch or get together is still my love language, it just takes a little more work, patience, and persistence now. And sometimes that’s exhausting. But it’s always worth it. 

#OneDayMay #maydays #bettertogether #livingfaithfully #reallife
School’s out FOR THE SUMMER! #88daysofsummer #mo School’s out FOR THE SUMMER! #88daysofsummer #momlife #siblinglove #summerisbest #maydays
I’m proud of myself for … … surviving and t I’m proud of myself for …

… surviving and thriving this school year. I resist change almost all of the time, and the past nine months have been full of so many transitions for our whole family. I know, that’s life, but these changes seem like the kind that will mark us forever. 

My kids navigated new beginnings in kindergarten, middle school, and high school. As a mom, sometimes I’m too close to see the growth, but this year it happened in each of them right before my eyes. They navigated friendship hurdles, embraced new friends, and settled a little more into who God created them to be. Middle school isn’t for the faint of heart, but I feel like I’ve come out of this year closer to my son, so I will take it. 

I’m proud of myself for leaning into where God has me. I’ve grown deeper friendships, invested in my kids’ school as a board member and business manager, and seen God work in our ordinary days. 

Y’all know I’m a summer girl, so I’m proud of myself through getting through the winter and coming into summer stronger and braver. 

#OneDayMay #maydays #livingfaithfully #choosingJOY #momlife #summerisbest #bettertogether
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