Transcript

Our origin story, marriage advice, & 2026 resolutions

From Always Here · Episode page · Watch on YouTube

· 1 h 9 min · 15,987 words · 430 timestamped sections

This is the full, timestamped transcript of "Our origin story, marriage advice, & 2026 resolutions", an episode of Always Here published January 2, 2026 (1 h 9 min, about 15,987 words). It mentions 27 people, works and ideas, including James CJ, Abby, Addie, Always Here, Always Here.

What this episode is about

The content explores the dynamic between two friends who share the same name, reflecting on their initial perceptions of each other and their journey together. It touches on themes of marriage advice, companionship, and setting resolutions, all while blending humor and heartfelt moments.

Key takeaways

  • Fear breeds friends: being scared of someone often hides admiration, opening paths to unexpected camaraderie.
  • Shared names: A comedic twist and economic decision, or just parents trolling from the womb?
  • Family wedlock: Marrying brothers doubles the options for in-laws, halves the gift burden.
  • High school sweethearts: Once trendsetters for prom, now setting trends at Costco.
  • Comfort zones revamped: If you critique watermelon eating, you've reached peak family intimacy.

Who speaks in this episode?

What is discussed, and when

  1. – 10:00: Abby Howard, Abigail, Always Here, Always Here
  2. – 20:00: Hair by Chrissy, Habit Salon, Instagram, Lana Lopez Lara
  3. – 30:00: Always Here, Always Here, Unplanned, Words of affirmation
  4. – 40:00: Alyssa Farah Griffin, Dr. Daniel Aean
  5. – 50:00: Abigail, Bible study, dopamine fast, Michelle Vivian
  6. – 1:00:00: Abigail, Always Here, Always Here, dopamine fast
  7. – 1:09:23: Always Here, Always Here, Bananagrams, Monopoly Deal

Notable quotes from "Our origin story, marriage advice, & 2026 resolutions"

  • Always, here, to, share, the, hope, and, the hard with heart and humor.
    about Always Here · at
  • Yeah., No,, but, we, are, technically, you're Abigail. And I'm really going to train myself for the sake of this podcast to call you Abigail, but I've called you Abby for a decade now.
    about Abigail · at
  • Okay. Okay, the second one is maybe the opposite of go. Have you heard about the Hair by Chrissy drama?
    about Hair by Chrissy · at
  • No,, but, I, think, she, was, just, saying I, feel, she, also, maybe, had, put, stuff on her Instagram story is maybe what I saw some a, lot, of, TikTok.
    about Instagram · at
  • Before you guys started Unplanned, we kind of threw the idea around and we've always kind of come back to it throughout the years to, say, how, fun, it, would, be.
    about Unplanned · at
  • Carried it over and so kiss more and write more love notes because my husband is a words of affirmation man and, he, saves, all, of, our, notes, very I found the stack and I was like it's those are getting old.
    about Words of affirmation · at
  • Abby, you know you're more prone to cavities when you're pregnant. I was six after having Griffin.
    about Alyssa Farah Griffin · at
  • We're going to do a Well, this sounds like the most dreadful thing ever, but we're, going to, do, a, dopamine, fast, in, the new year.
    about dopamine fast · at

Who and what is mentioned in this episode?

People

  • James CJ — Person · 23 mentions
  • Abby — Person · 21 mentions
  • Addie — Person · 13 mentions
  • Abigail — Person · 5 mentions · first at
  • Abby Howard — Person · 4 mentions · first at
    Welcome, to, Always, Here., We're, your, hosts Abby Howard and Abby Howard.
  • Alyssa Farah Griffin — Person · 2 mentions · first at
  • Lana Lopez Lara — Person · 1 mention · first at
    Lana Lopez Lara. Okay. Lanna Lope Lopes Lara. There's a couple different ways you could say that maybe just one to her, but she co-founded KHI and it's a regulated exchange for event-based.
  • notfamous 808 — Person · 1 mention · first at
    Okay,, I, think, this, is, a, very, interesting debate. Okay, so Tik Tocker, notfamous 808 made a viral video about how she went to Habit Salon and was charged $4,000 for her hair extensions and service. She was charged $2,974.
  • Dr. Daniel Aean — Person · 1 mention · first at
    I, think, that, comes, from, Dr., Aean., I feel like a lot of people say that, but he said that like 10 minutes of specifically child le play like where they like kind of pick what you're.
  • Michelle Vivian — Person · 1 mention · first at
    I, will, say, I, feel, Louis, has, done that. Louis is our dog. He's done that less with Vivian's toys. Like CJ, who was so excited with all the new toys and they're all squeaky. He doesn't care anymore.
  • Augie — Person · 1 mention

Companies & orgs

  • Always Here — Company · 8 mentions · first at
  • Hair by Chrissy — Company · 2 mentions · first at
  • Instagram — Company · 2 mentions · first at
  • Unplanned — Company · 2 mentions · first at
  • chat GPT — Company · 2 mentions
  • Habit Salon — Company · 1 mention · first at
    Debate. Okay, so Tik Tocker, notfamous 808 made a viral video about how she went to Habit Salon and was charged $4,000 for her hair extensions and service. She was charged…
  • KHI — Company · 1 mention

Products & tech

  • Lindor — Product · 1 mention · first at
    That's, so, sweet., That's, my, mom, and, she actually brought us sparkling apple juice and Lindor chocolates to celebrate today, which is so sweet. We love our supportive family.
  • Bananagrams — Product · 1 mention · first at
    We play bananagrams. And I was like when I got married, I was we're going to play bananagrams all the time.
  • Monopoly Deal — Product · 1 mention · first at
    We play Monopoly Deal, the two of us.

Concepts & topics

  • Always Here — Concept · 8 mentions · first at
    Always, here, to, share, the, hope, and, the hard with heart and humor.
  • dopamine fast — Concept · 3 mentions · first at
  • Words of affirmation — Concept · 2 mentions · first at
  • Bible study — Concept · 1 mention · first at
    I want to get back into a regular Bible study, routine, and, read, at least, four times a week. I feel like I was really good about this. Even with CJ when he was a newborn, but now being pregnant.

Places & events

  • Howard's house — Place · 1 mention · first at
    Memory, of, you., I, don't, know if, I've, ever told you this, but we were eating at the Howard's house, like at their kitchen table, and I was Gosh, she's so comfortable and like so I was so nervous around their family for so long. Yeah.
  • Silver Dollar City — Place · 1 mention · first at
    Apartment with us. You get close with someone when you share a one-bedroom apartment. We went to Silver Dollar City, like made meals together.

Full transcript with timestamps

I was really scared of you. We, were, not, friends., I, didn't, know, you, were.

You, always, felt, edgy, to, me. Oh,, well,, I, need, to, schedule, a, dentist appointment.

Oh,, no. I, don't, even, want, to, say, how, many, years. Wait,, years, since, before, you, had, CJ., I don't know if this is inappropriate for the podcast, but I put kiss more. Matt will kiss me and sometimes I'm like whoa, whoa, whoa. We do that like a smooch kiss.

What, is, your, best, advice, for, being, a wife? Always, here, to, share, the, hope, and, the hard with heart and humor.

Welcome, to, Always, Here., We're, your, hosts Abby Howard and Abby Howard. Wow,, this, is, crazy., I, feel, very, nervous. Yeah,

I, have, butterflies., Mostly, just, cuz, I'm excited, but I have full confidence in this being really natural for us cuz we talk all the time.

Totally., I, agree. We, got, Addie, here, on, the, production, mic. Hello. It's, a, family, affair.,

I, know., It's, fun, to, just, watch, you, guys in the studio on the outside. It's kind of weird.

I, like, it. I, like, it. I, like, it,, too. Less, pressure, on, me, to, look, good, every episode.

True., True. I, feel, like, we, just, filmed, our, uh announcement video right before this and it was like a scripted fun thing and I feel like I'm talking like I'm on a script.

Like, I, have, to, turn, off, my, acting brain cuz I've never had an acting brain.

You, You, are, natural, though., I, appreciate that. We should probably first address for those that don't know why we have the exact same name.

Oh, yeah,, that's, a, good, part., We, always make that stupid joke. Yeah,, it's, either, really, convenient, or really confusing.

Or, our, family, couldn't, afford, one. I, think, that's, from, Zach, and, Cody.

It, is, from, Zach, and, Cody. Our, family, could, only, afford, one, name. Yeah., No,, but, we, are, technically, you're Abigail. And I'm really going to train myself for the sake of this podcast to call you Abigail, but I've called you Abby for a decade now.

Yeah,, I, know., It's, crazy, how, long, we've known each other. Yeah., Well,, a, decade, actually.

Decade., Yeah., A, whole, 10, years. But, to, be, fair,, the, early, years, we, were, not, friends.,

I, didn't, know, you, were. I'd, love, to., We, should, get, into, that. So, different., Yeah., Let's, get, into, it. Okay. So, we're both Abby. Abigail for her. My full name is just Abby for those of you that may not have known that, but um we married brothers.

Yep., Caleb, and, Matt. They're, 18, months, apart., They're, pretty close. Yeah.

Yeah., Always, closer, than, I, think., Caleb seems like such an older brother, so I always feel like he's much older. I think, too, because Caleb and Matt weren't super close for a lot of their lifetime until we all got married and were in the same life stage that I feel like now they're closer and they feel less of an age gap, but I feel like growing up there felt like a big big age gap.

Yeah,, cuz, we're, all, high, school sweethearts, which is also wild. Yeah. Yeah,, that, is, fun., Okay,, so, kind, of, get into it.

Okay. Do, you, remember, the, first, time, you, met me? I, don't, remember. Okay., Yeah., So,, we, started, dating., We both started dating in high school.

Yes., I, started, dating, Caleb, when, I, was, a senior and he was a junior and then we dated all through high school, college and I remember you coming into the picture I think maybe when I was still in high school.

No,, no,, I'm, sorry., I, was, a, sophomore, in college cuz you and Matt started dating your senior year.

Right, after, junior, year., Yeah. Yeah., So, I, was So, maybe, right, before, you, went, into sophomore year.

Yes., So, I, feel, like, we, never, really, had a ton of time together because you lived in a different city. I was in college just so far apart. Yeah, but I have distinct memories of you from the beginning. I was really scared of you.

I,, think, that's, so, crazy. I Every time you say that, you're like "You were so cool." I was never cool.

I've, never, been, cool. Really?, I, feel, like, you're, pretty, cool. In comparison to me, Abby, let's be fair.

I, don't, think, you, had, like, You, guys always did fun crazy things with your friends. I feel like I was just I didn't I just had like a small group. I, don't know., I, just, wasn't, like, the cool girl that I feel like you probably haven't me built up to be in your head.

Well,, we, didn't, go, to, the, same, high school. So, in my mind, you were like city girl. You'd known the family so much longer than me. You were so much more comfortable. You had like cool style and you always felt edgy to me.

Oh,, wow. So,, I, was, like,, she's, just, so, cool., Um, I was intimidated you. This is intimidated by you. This was my first memory, of, you., I, don't, know if, I've, ever told you this, but we were eating at the Howard's house, like at their kitchen table, and I was like, "Gosh, she's so comfortable and like so I was so nervous around their family for so long." Yeah.

And, like, I, like, would, get, a, stomach ache. I'm like so nervous. I just really wanted them to like me, but I also like didn't know how to behave. I was just really awkward. And then I remember I'm sitting across from you and you're sitting next to Josh and he's eating watermelon.

You, remember, the, food? Yeah,, cuz, you, were, like,, "Oh, my, gosh, Josh, you're eating kind of loud. You like corrected his eating and I was like gosh, she's so comfortable. Like I don't think he could ever say anything like that ever.

Oh,, why, did, I, feel, so, comfortable, saying that? It, wasn't, rude., It, was, just, like, you were like you he felt like your brother.

Yeah,, he, did., I, I, met, Josh, when, he, was, 9 years old. Yeah., Yeah., He's, 23, now.

Crazy. Isn't, that, wild?, I, know., So,, he, kind, of was He is my little brother.

Yeah. Yeah., That, is, really, funny., I, feel, like my first impressions of you, I don't remember the first time we met in person, but I remember Matt talking about you all the time and we were all like, "We get it. You love her." And he would be like "I'm going to marry Abby. I'm, going to, marry, Abby.", And, I, was like "Okay, you sound crazy.

You,, sound, crazy." Cuz, you, you, guys, were, like, 18, 17, 17., I'm, going, to, marry, her., And, I'm like, "Okay." I knew you were amazing from what Matt said, but

sweet. I, didn't, I, don't, remember, like, actually meeting you for the first time. I I remember. So then, okay, we keep dating kind of just like crossing paths really at just like holidays. Yeah. And stuff

and, not, really, talking, too, much, to, be honest. Quiet. I was so scared. And then we had got engaged. I went I was at your engagement.

You, were?, Which, was, that's, fun., I thought we have pictures from that together.

Yeah., And, then, we, had, bridal, showers together. This is where it was a little awkward in my opinion.

This, is, where, I, feel, like, we, became friends. Yeah., starting, to, become, friends,, but we're getting married at the same time. We're having shared showers, which is

a, little, awkward, to, begin, with., Then, you have me being like extra awkward and then us not also being like super close.

Well,, it, was, kind, of, funny, cuz, everyone thought we both were child brides. You know, we were

I, was, 23,, you, were, 20. Yeah., Like, my, family, thought, I, was, a, child bride. You

I, was, called, a, child., So, it's, like, the, two, children, just sitting there after bridal showers. Yeah. I mean, it was really sweet for them to host those showers and like very generous, but they were beautiful.

Still, not, super, close., We, were, at, each other's weddings. Mhm. I, know., Sometimes, I, wonder, I'm, like, man, I wonder if it would have been fun to have you as a bridesmaid.

And, like, I, think, I, going, back, I'm, like totally would you would have been like my main. Like I mean all these things but I'm like also our relationship just wasn't like that yet.

Totally. And, who, would, have, known, what, was, going to come of it? But I feel like a specific turning point was when you came to visit Matt and I in Springfield

and, you, guys, stayed, at, our, one-bedroom apartment with us. You get you get close with someone when you share a one-bedroom apartment. We went to Silver Dollar City, like made meals together. That was really fun. That was really fun. I think that was the first time I saw your personality and Matt's personality, too. Like I always knew Matt as like the younger brother and you know he was always busy with his acting and stuff and so actually getting to spend quality time with you guys was so fun. I remember we baked and yeah we took our dog at the time was a puppy and you let us bring him to your apartment and we just I mean we literally just ran around Springfield and we just I don't know I was like wow they're so fun.

That, was, a, good, time., And, then, we, did, a couple more trips together. And, then, you, ended, up, moving, to, Arizona. And I feel like then like we were already close by then. And so, but like ever since then it's just like I really feel like we're all sisters. And then Addie joined the mix with Blake like gosh, three years ago now.

Yeah., Three, and, a, half., Three., We've been married three and a half. Yeah., So, crazy.

Five. And, now, we're, all, in, Arizona, together. All the sisters. I know. So fun. I'm glad we're all here.

Yeah. It's, fun., It's, a, good, time., Oh,, Add's married to my brother for context. Yeah. So, but we all call each other

Abby, Howard, is, the, middle, person., Abby and Abby in the Pink if you're if you're watching on video.

I've, been, referring, to, you, as, my, bonus sister-in-law and I kind of like that.

I, think, that's, perfect. I, have, to, admit, an, insecurity, I, feel. You guys both have like biological sisters, so sometimes I feel like I'm overstepping when I'm like my sisters. So, like if I type it out, I usually say sister-in-law out of respect for I don't think my sister would care. I'm not I'm not taking your place. I don't think I'm equal to you.

A, I, bet, my, sister's, like, that. I'm, like, sister-in-law., See,, my, sister, probably, doesn't, care.

That's, sweet., That's, okay., I, didn't, know you did that every time. Then I'm like do they think it's weird that I'm separating sister-in-law? But well, I'm glad I got that out there. Put it out there and now we can just say sisters and we all know we're not trying to overstep.

I, think, I, did, that, for, your, birthday, on my story. I was like, can I put sister? Like is she okay with that? Like maybe your sister?

That, works, great., I, mean,, my, sisters love you so it's not like they're like weird about it. That's so sweet. Oh boy.

Should, we, start, our, first, segment? We, should. Okay., This, segment, is, called,, "Wow, that's crazy."

Wow,, that's, crazy. Wow,, that's, crazy. That's, crazy. The, inception, of, it, is, that, Abby, and, I say that all the time. And to the point now where my son CJ says it. He goes "That's crazy." And then I was like "Why do I say that so much?" And I think it's because we say it all the time.

I, didn't, even, realize, we, were, saying, it. I, didn't, either, until, CJ, started, saying it and then I started paying attention and I said "Abby says it a lot. I say it a lot, so it must be something we feed. So, we thought it'd be a funny idea for a segment on the podcast. And Abby right now is currently offline. And you have been for a while.

I, post, post, and, ghost, is, what, we, do. But, you, don't, like I, have, been, for, Wow., We, could, do, the exact math, but like two and a half months.

Wow., That's, really, healthy. It, feels, great., I'm, currently breastfeeding, so I feel like I'm chronically online.

That's, the, time. So,, we,, have, good, balance here. But, I, do, want, I, think, that, is, an insecurity of like going offline. And it's like it's so much better for my mental health and like my productivity so many other things. But I'm also like I feel like I'm getting left behind sometimes.

Well,, that's, why, we, have, this, segment. That's, great., We're, going to, keep, you, in the loop and then we'll get your opinions on what's going on.

Okay. We, do, want, this, to, be, like, non-, gossipy. It's, just, going to, be, fun,, lighthearted, and chatty, but we're going to keep you in the loopy.

Okay., Loopy,, new, word., Um,, we're, gonna start with like a This is kind of just more an impressive one. The world has a new youngest female self-made billionaire. Did you know this?

No., I, feel, like, this, is, not, what, you were expecting. Gosh., Wow., The, youngest, How, many, are there?

Okay., I, I, took, notes. Okay. I, prepped, for, this., I, know. So,, in, the, world, there, are, three, around 3,000 total billionaires. Okay. But out of that, only 4 to 430 are female. That's a huge four to 400 to 430

of, those, billionaires, are, female number gap. Well,, I, don't, actually, know., That's why there's like a 30 range there.

Okay. And, then, around, a, quarter, of, those, are only are self-made. So about 124 are self-made female billionaires. The rest became billionaires by inheritance.

Okay., I, know, some, of, these. Yeah., So, it's, very, impressive., Yes., And we have a new youngest. She's 29 years old. Okay.

My, age., Oh,, I, I, I, got, one, year, to, catch up. Well,, you, got, about, a, billion, time billion dollars to catch up with.

I, need, a, billion, more, dollars. Uh, her, name, is, I, hope, I, say, this, right. Lana Lopez Lara. Okay. Lanna Lope Lopes Lara. There's a couple different ways you could say that maybe just one to her, but she co-founded KHI and it's a regulated exchange for event-based trading. So, think about gambling on elections, weather, sports, all kinds of different things. Oh

so, that's, pretty, big, news. I, wonder, if, most, of, her, users, are, male or female.

I, would, be, pretty, confident, that, male. Yeah. Yes,, she, did, have, a, co-founder, who, was, a male. But I think it's I mean I'm I'm very impressed that she's like young female entrepreneur became a billionaire. That's insane. But then also I'm like, dang, it's kind of gambling, you know? Kind of taboo a little bit.

Oh,, really?, Do, you, think, it, is?, I, mean, I don't personally do it, but I feel like my dad grew up I feel like my dad kind of he played party poker, so it wasn't like sports betting sports betting like

which, I, feel, like, is, a, different, Yeah, Blake does sports betting. I feel like it's different than gambling.

It, wasn't, really, a, conversation, honestly. Do, you, see, those, in, the, same, realm? Sports betting and gambling.

Yes,, but, because, in, Missouri,, where, I'm from, before we moved here, it was always illegal. It's legal now as of a couple days ago

right?, So,, I, think, that's, why, there's this hard shift where like my dad used to drive over state lines to Illinois

to, sports, bet, but, we, would, always, consider, it, gambling because it was always kind of on the same playing field.

I've, always, I, feel, like, the, conversation was always like don't ever get started on that like you'll waste all your sav you'll ruin all squander all your savings. Yeah, I've never done it. I never actually even felt tempted to do it. I wonder if it's like if the number that is based on like the amount spent. Like Blake puts like $20 in like a month. Like it's not like a lot of money. So I wonder if like that's why I'm like it's not gambling cuz he's like

it's, controlled. Yeah., Controlled. Uhhuh., It's, just, interesting., I, thought it was funny. I We're really proud of you,

Lana., Lenna., Good., Good, for, you,, girl. That's the first one. I thought we'd start with something light and kind of interesting.

Love, that, for, women. Go, girls. Okay. Okay, the second one is maybe the opposite of go. Have you heard about the Hair by Chrissy drama?

No,, I, know, that, there's, something,, but that's literally the extent of what I know.

Okay,, I, think, this, is, a, very, interesting debate. Okay, so Tik Tocker, notfamous 808 made a viral video about how she went to Habit Salon and was charged $4,000 for her hair extensions and service. She was charged $2,974 for the quote Chrissy service in which he claims that Chrissy personally only touched her hair for 60 seconds. And in this Tik Tok, she kind of goes through it. She's like, she came through and she go, "Okay, tone." And then her assistants would come in and do all of her work. So Chrissy then responded by making many Tik Toks in response, like kind of mocking her, which is where everyone then started chiming in online about like Chrissy's response. And then the other girl who created the original video would respond to Chrissy. and it kind of just went back and forth, back and forth, back and forth. So, there was a lot of debate about Chrissy's response. She did make merchandise kind

of mocking her. It got really ugly. Okay., So,, then, I, guess, I, don't, really feel like it's a problem to talk about if she clearly kind of fed into it

and, made, merchandise., So,, it's, like, she wants she likes this conversation.

Yes., But, also,, I, don't, know, because, now her com Addy told me her comments are turned off on TikTok. Isn't that interesting? But here's my question.

She, was, mad, because, it, was, so, expensive. Well, she said she paid almost $3,000 for the Chrissy service and then Chrissy did not touch her hair. Okay, barely. And so the debate online is like, "Well what' you expect? She's a celebrity hair stylist. She's super busy. You go in you're paying for a premium for her name and, then, you're, going to, get, her assistance work." Or people are saying "No, that's crazy. You got ripped off and that's not transparent pricing because you're expecting Chrissy to do your hair and then she's not."

So,, I'm, curious, your, thoughts, before, I What, are, your, thoughts, on, this? Well, I feel like from a business perspective, I understand Chrissy. Like she can't do everyone's hair. You know she's built up her business and her reputation to a point where she's training people to do it her way.

And, if, she, is, coming, through, and, making face, I'm like, "Okay, I get that."

What, was, her, response?, Like,, what, was was she like defending herself or Okay. Yeah. What did What was her defense? Uh basically remember, Addy, do you remember what her

I, also, went, to, go, look, for, those response videos and I didn't see them on the page. A lot of them were like in her caption she'd be like, "Me and my million assistants or me and my team of assistants." Like she kind of was taking what the girl said and making videos directly

saying, she, doesn't, actually, have, that many assistants like No,, but, I, think, she, was, just, saying

I, feel, like, she, also, maybe, had, put, stuff on her Instagram story is maybe what I saw some

a, lot, of, TikTok. Okay., Well,, I, kind, of, I, kind, of, feel like if you're paying thousands of dollars for the quote unquote Chrissy experience, I kind of see where she feels misled by that. Uhhuh.

Cuz, I, feel, like, it's, one, thing, like, I feel like that type of thing I would expect if I go if I'm just going to Chrissy's salon

or, habit., If, I'm, going, to, habit,, then, I expect that the assistants will be doing it and she trained them and she might even be there. But if you pay for that specific service, I feel like that does

that, does, kind, of, make, it, feel, like that's that's different from what you'd be, getting, otherwise., You, know what, I mean?

Do, I, get, Yeah,, I, didn't, think, about that. Like obviously you're expecting okay,, I'm, going, to, have, it., I'm, going to have a different hair stylist. But then if you're paying for Chrissy's service you would think then, oh, I'm getting Chrissy.

She, got, extensions. Uh-huh. Okay., I, mean,, I, feel, like, those, are,, you know, that those are going to be really expensive,

which, she, said, that, she, expected, the price. Okay., And, she, agreed, to, the, price,, but then when she got there, she was confused by the actual service then.

I, can, see, that., I, can, see, that. I, know., I, I, feel, like, this, is, when, I, see both sides.

Yeah., Yeah., I, see, both, sides cuz, it's, high, demand, right? What, is, she, going, to, do?

Yeah,, but, maybe, don't, offer, that, if, you can't really give them more than 60 seconds.

That's, true. Yeah. Yeah, that's, tough., I, personally, I, can't understand the world of hair extensions in general, like let alone the price to do them, the upkeep, but the fact that you can't scrub your scalp, that makes me feel angry. I honestly know nothing about hair.

I, need, to, scrub., Well,, they, have, like there those like tracks, I think is what they're called, like on your head and then they move down and then you have to take them out and move them back up.

I, think, that's, old, school, now., They, do like, K, tips., I, don't know., We're, getting in the weeds of that. But they have tons of different

They, still, require, a, lot, of, upkeep, and you can't like just dig in your scalp. I like when I wash my hair, I'm like good.

That's, crazy. I, know., Wow. That's, crazy., That's, struck, a, lot, of, debate, online.

Okay., Now, you, have, an, opinion,, Addie. Oh, I was also just going to say, did you say that they both made merch about the they

she, mentioned, that, she, made, merch., She made the other girl made merch, too.

The, other, girl, made, merch,, too. Now,, this, just, feels, like, a, circus, on and not so famous. 808 is kind of famous now. She got a lot of followers from it. Well, one thing that I saw which is kind of interesting and might be I'd be interested to know your guys's takes on it is so Hair by Chrissy, she reposts a lot of videos of like past services she's done cuz she's just posting on socials and on her Tik Tok page. So then she's posting influencers who have gotten their hair done there in the past in the middle of the controversy. So then it looks like those people are like supporting Chrissy. Like someone made a video that was like, "Hey, my hair is short right now that I did not get my hair." They're like asking if she went to Chrissy while during this time.

Now, it's, become, a, witch, hunt., I, hate that though. I hate that stuff. But [snorts] yeah, I mean

so, I, thought, that, was, interesting. What, a, circus., This, is, like, This, is something that's so funny to me because being on the side of like not like watching the videos and like reading the comments and seeing like the speed in which these things accelerate, just being filled in on I'm like, "Wow that's crazy that that became a big deal." And merch was sold about it.

I, know., Did, you, buy, merch,, everybody? I, did, not, buy, merch. This, girl, got, a, ton, of, followers,, too.

Yeah,, her, first, review, video, was, very kind. Yes, it, wasn't, slanderous., And, I, think, that's why people got mad at Chrissy for her response because it was like you could have just taken the review kindly and just washed under the rug and or even not drawn attention to it. But she got it it agitated her.

I'm, pretty, sure, I, met, her, one, time and, I, don't, remember., She's, really, tiny.

She's, really, cute., Her hair, is beautiful. Yeah that's, crazy. That's, crazy., I, think, um, with, it, being the start of the new year 2026. I mean really this year was went fast. It's a great time to talk about resolutions. Now I know Abby personally isn't a resolution girly but we asked her to come up with some for this year and I'm pretty sure Caleb would really appreciate this. He likes he's a goal setter right?

He, is., I, feel, like, every, year, I, have, a like a pew pew stuck to my head and he's like we're going to write goals. A pew pew.

And, I'm, like, dang, it. I, like, sweat., I'm, like, goals fine. But he's right. I'm wrong. I like Well, Matt's not really quite organized enough. He like loves big goals, but they could come at any day. Like it could be like Tuesday at 5 in October. He's like

"What, is, the, most, important, thing, you want to get out of life?" And I'm like, "He happens all the time."

Okay,, I, have a, question, for, you, guys. You say you're making goals. Do you remember the acronym for smart goals?

Yeah,, I, actually, think, about, it. specific measurable attainable relatable, timely, or what's R?

Pretty, close., Um,, specific,, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time bound.

Oh,, relevant., I, didn't, refer, to, that., I have actually never heard of that.

I, was, going, to, say, these, goals, are, not those, but that's why it was a little It didn't have to be that deep.

Oh,, it, didn't, work. Well,, they, didn't, have, to, be. I, feel, like, mine, are, achievable.

Well,, you, have, to, write, out, I, would, like to achieve this by like the specific goal measurable. Like, you have to make all of those within the goal. It's like

Yeah., one, goal, sentence,, five, points., We used to that was like workshop in school. Maybe that's why I hate doing goals cuz I'm like, [sighs]

"All, right,, one, thing, has, to, do, five things." And I never did that. I never did that.

It, felt, overwhelming. Okay,, that's, crazy., Um,, but, first,, let's talk about some of our goals for this podcast because I feel like

this, kind, of, came, out, of, nowhere,, but also a lot of people are doing podcasts. Why should you listen to Always Here? This has been something we've talked about for a long time, years actually. before you guys started Unplanned, we kind of threw the idea around and we've always kind of come back to it throughout the years

to, say, how, fun, it, would, be. I, I, do, think, that, there, is, a, gap., Like, I love podcasts that are girly and fun but there's not a ton that aren't, I would say, maybe super salacious or just gossip centered, which those are have like a time and a place, but I feel like we can fill that gap of being a podcast where it feels like friendly, casual sweet, but also we're going to talk about real things in our life. Yeah. Um

and, I, feel, like, we, have, a, shared, mission and how we share those things.

I, don't, know if, you, want, to, touch, on that. You want me to continue? Yeah., I, mean,, we've, had, a, lot, of conversations and actually like developing it. So, this like obviously said it's been a conversation for a while since before we started Unplanned the podcast I do with my husband and like I think when we brought up the unplanned, you were like, "Well, dang it, you stole my idea." I was like "That's" and I I kind of always knew in the back of my head that this would like come to be, but just like the timing and I feel like the timing of this is like honestly perfect because

we, are, in, the, early, motherhood, stage., We are wives. we're living our like trying to do. I I just feel like this is a time where community is can be harder to find than ever, but also like more important than ever.

And, I, think, online, it, can, and, I'm, not going to try to just like gas myself up.

Yeah., And, this, isn't, a, generalization. It's just this, isn't, I'm, not, even, thinking, of anyone specifically at all. Totally. But just it can feel like um you know a time suck or like maybe you leave and you just feel more anxious or less I don't know. We I think that we both just had a lot of conversations about wanting this to be a place that makes you feel uplifted

related, to, maybe, we'll, share, what, we're making for dinner. Maybe we'll share a book we read or a TV show or a great fun date night idea or an activity for your toddlers. Just like a place where we can find a community of other people that are in the same season of life, miss the season of life, or are anticipating the season of life.

Yeah,, totally. Did, I, say, that? I, think, that's, great., And, when, we, share hard things, we want them to be sharing in a way that feels hopeful. Like it's so easy to get out up here with a microphone and like dog on your husband or dog on your kids and being a mom or you know, and it's like that's not in the long run like beneficial. And we want to kind of share like yeah life can be hard but we can also be hopeful and like have fun through the hard things. And

yeah, and, we, have, such, a, purpose, in, that like hard things. So we did create a mission mission statement.

Yeah, we, did., It, took, us, a, while, but took, us, a, while, but, here's, what, we landed on. So I mean this is also for you guys to keep us accountable as well each other everyone on the team. Um always here to share the hope and the hard with heart and humor.

Yeah, we, want, to, laugh, a, lot. Yeah., I, mean, we're, not, going, to, be laughing.

We're, not, serious, honestly, genuinely., I mean, we can be, but yeah, overall., So,, that's, kind, of, like, our goal for always here. And it's been really sweet and fun doing this as sisters

and, starting, this., It's, like, such, a blessing that we have our relationship but also like the fact that we have our community of friends in real life and now we're going to have an online community. That's really fun. Now, our personal goals. Okay. Did you come up with 10?

I, had, three, and, then, you, said, 10., So,, I piggybacked to the drawing board.

Okay. So,, I, have, 10. Okay.,, Okay,, long, way, would say that. So, my first one is I want Caleb and I to do one planned date out a month at least. And we used to be really good about doing weekly date nights before kids and then um we fell into a season of being really financially broke and we didn't do any dates and we also had a child. So, I was like, well, we'll just sit on the couch tonight again. And I think it's been a really easy habit to fall out of. So, I want to prioritize at least we can have a babysitter come once a month and go out to dinner

like, easily,, you, know?, So,, just, like putting that on the calendar and following through with that.

That's, sweet., Yeah,, I, put, kiss, more, and write more love notes. Yes, I, put, them, in, the, same, one, because, Kiss More actually was one of my resolutions from a previous year

but, I, want, to, bring, it, back, again., And, I feel like I told Matt this when I made that my goal a couple years ago. I'm like, we love each other a lot. We touch a lot and we're like always close to each other. Let's just kiss sometimes. Like I don't know if this is inappropriate for the podcast, but why is it that when you're I feel like we Okay, Caleb and I have been married we've well we've been married almost seven years now. We're going on seven years 26 and I'm like diss me.

Yes., I'm, not, your, buddy. Oh, no., Matt, will, kiss, me, and, sometimes I'm like whoa whoa whoa. We do that like a smooch kiss like kiss and so no actually that was the thing. So like he was like sometimes I feel like I kiss you and I feel like you like lean away. I'm like why do I do that? Like I like kissing you. So now I'm like I want to be I need to initiate more kisses so I can break whatever happened. I feel like something when we had kids I was just kind of like

well, I, think, because, when, you're pregnant you can't touch you can't roll over like you you came to breastfeeding like it started then I was like I'm people are touching me too much and so he would kiss me when I was breastfeeding. like just like and I freaked out and then I'm clearly not breastfeeding. So I'm like I it just carried it over and so kiss more and write more love notes because my husband is a words of affirmation man

and, he, saves, all, of, our, notes, like, very very I found the stack and I was like it's those are getting old.

A, that's, sweet. Need, to, add, new, ones, to, that, stack., So I'm like maybe I could maybe once a month. Yeah.

Put, a, number, on, it. That's, sweet., I, love, that., Yeah., There you go. Measurable.

Measurable., once, a, month., Adding, it kiss, once, a, month. Kisses, a, month., Uh, my, next, marriage, goal is I want to take a trip this year just Caleb and I

a, trip, just, as, two. That's, so, good., Always. We, last, year, we, went, it, was, like, for, his work conference

and, so, we, haven't, gone, and, we, did, like an extra day but Caleb was also in entering into work mode. So it's like we just I want like even if it's just a weekend or something.

So, fun. We, haven't, done, that, in, a, long, time. Just us two. We'll, watch, the, kids., Thanks., And, I actually have a travel one as well, but I said travel with friends.

Oh, because, I, like, we, like, we, travel together for work and for fun for like 24 hours a lot. And I love that. I want to keep the same amount of that in. But I want to travel with friends specifically with kids the same age as ours. So, it just that just feels so fun. Like in a big house, everyone comes. We like have game nights and movie nights with the kids. We all make food in and just like have a kid trip.

Yeah. But, with, our, friends,, too. I, don't, personally, love, all-inclusives. Like that's where we've gone for KB's work trips. This is not like my favorite type of vacation, but I do think an all-inclusive is fun. Would be fun for a friend trip like that.

Yeah. Because, you're, all, contained, in, one area, but like if you need to go back for naps or you want to go to food or someone, it's like everything's right there. Yeah.

So,, you, could, be, on, the, same, schedule, but not at the same time. Mhm. Yeah., I, get, that., Well,, I, was, picturing like getting a big Airbnb and like cooking dinners together.

Oh,,, no. That is impossible to do with friends. Been there and done that. And no, it's really fun, but it's like you can't stay together.

Sure., It's, too, big., Okay,, so, moving, off my goals. I'm recently postpartum, so I'm like 10 weeks out. Getting back into fitness is kind of interesting and I'm really excited about it. I do have a goal to run a half marathon.

Oh,, you're, going, to, do, it? Uhhuh., I, did, that, with, CJ, when, I, was seven months postpartum. And I think I'm gonna try to make that a goal with every baby to try to do a half marathon within the first year postpartum. Wow. I don't know why. I just think if I give myself a challenge, I'll actually do it.

See,, for, the, turkey, trot, this, year,, I did 10-minute miles and I was pretty fast for three miles. Not running it fast.

Did, you, run, the, whole, time? I, did, run, the, whole, time. See,, that's, a, goal, in, itself., I, don't think I could run a 10-minute mile and run the whole time.

You, could,, Addie., That's, a, mental, thing. It, is., I, don't, have Oh,, okay.,

I, do, run. No,, I, hate, running. I'm, going, to, take, that, grit., Like,, I don't have that that thing to keep me going,, which, [clears throat], I, feel, like you need to have for

um, running. Abby, has, good, grit., Thanks., You, really just You just need a good podcast. Always here.

Plug., Get, it, on, your, run,, ladies. Listen, to, it, again. Yeah., Literally,, [gasps], you're, like, "No, I can't listen to it anymore." Running for me, I'm like maybe I'll get into that when I'm like an empty neester.

Yeah. Not, my, season, for, running. It's, hard, with, littles. I, just, Yeah., It, takes, too, long.

It's, so, therapeutic. I, wish, I, felt, that, way, about, it., I, feel like I'm

mine. I'm, stressed., Like, I'm, stressed, if, I run. I just want to stop. Okay., Similarly,, I, have, on, my, list, of goals, go on more walks.

I, just, feel, so, much, better., I, started that after the loss and I was like, I just feel so much better just being outside, slowing down. And actually, I'm talking about independent walks. I love when Matt's like, "Let me go with you." And I'm like, "Yes, now I have to go do my own laps now." Yeah. Because it's just like that's kind of part of it. I feel like I don't have a lot of alone time in my days. And I don't think that mattered to me or stood out to me as like something that I wanted to change until like more recently. And I was like, "Oh gosh, I actually really feel like I need to like kind of recoup independently like a little bit every single day." And I don't think I'll be able to do this daily. Like that just doesn't feel realistic. But I just said on more walks and I like love it. I like turn on a sometimes I'll just listen to music or um usually I just like listen to a podcast. I've been listening to Dr.

Arthur Brooks podcast like about happiness while I'm walking. I'm like this just feels this feels like self-care. This feels like really good. Yeah. So, that is on mine to just do that more often, especially in Arizona now. It's like a great time to walk.

For, sure., For, sure. Really, nice., I, love, that., I, like, that., I like that one a lot. Um, another one I have is get a pull-up. I kind of had that before I got pregnant with my daughter.

Why, did, I, think, of, like, pee, pee, diaper pull-ups? I, really, just, want, to, get, back, pull-ups.

Very, easy, to, [gasps] Okay,, do, a, pull-up., Okay. Yeah,, I, like, to, get, a, pull-up, again. That was something that I never envisioned for myself ever in my entire life. Even from a child, you remember when we used to do the physical fitness test in school, like elementary school I always missed out on the blue ribbon because I couldn't do a pull-up.

Dang, it. I, know. I, feel, like, I've, seen, you, do, pull-ups workouts. Yes., I, got, one, down, right, before, I, got pregnant again. So, I want to get it back. Okay.

That's, a, goal, of, mine,, too., Get, the pull-ups back after after, having, babies.

Yeah., That, strength, is, gone. Gone. It's, gone. I, tried., and, I, was, like,, "Oh,, not, there anymore."

I, know., I, just, want, to, get, strong, again. It was so fun. So,, that's, that's, my, goal., I, actually have zero fitness goals that I'm looking at my list.

That's, probably, healthy., That's, probably good. I, feel, like, I, want, to, keep, doing, exactly what I'm doing on that.

I, just, want, to, keep, riding., I've, had that same goal just to show up. We're, going to, ride, that, wave.

We're, going, to, ride, that, exactly, how we're doing it. Um, another one I have is that I want to take more pictures.

I, got, a, camera, and, I, feel, like, this happens a lot where I'm like, "Oh, yeah. I want to like share this thing that I did even to my story or like text it in the family group chat. I'm like zero pictures, no documentation of that day which you would think I have a lot of documentation, which I do. I have like video things, but it's not like

stuff, that, I'm, like, I, want, to, I, can, go back on and be like, that's that moment. And our kids are only little for so long. They're changing so fast. Like I specifically want to get pictures of my kids, but be with my friends. Like I have a lot of friends I see every day I don't have a single picture with. Now will it be awkward to take out my little camera that I got and be like, "Let's take a picture at the park." Yeah, it'll be awkward, but

it's, always, fun. I, feel, like, it's, always, fun, when, you have pictures. Like

I, want, to, organize, them, in, some, fashion so I can find them. I'm, always, grateful, when, people, remember to take pictures.

Yeah,, me, too., I'm, like,, it's, never annoying, but I feel annoying if I ask to do it.

It, Yeah,, it, feels, like, you're, putting people on the spot, but I don't personally feel that way.

I, think, it's, also, because, of, what, I, do for my job. what I do for my job. I'm like, h I feel like I can't pull out my camera or phone or be weird. But

sure, everyone, understands,, I, think. Yeah,, I, think, if, it's, just, personal, use.

Yeah,, I'm, going, to, put, myself just, for, funsies., Okay, my, next, one, is, uh, I, need, to, schedule, a dentist appointment.

Oh, no, that's, been, about, I, don't, even, want, to say how many years it's been.

Abby,, that's, actually, scary., Wait, years. Okay, listen. Let me explain. Since before you had CJ Abby, you know you're more prone to cavities when you're pregnant. I was six after having Griffin.

Yes., I've, never, had, a, cavity, in, my, life. Oh, so, I, don't, think, I'm, a, prone, person.

No. But, I, have, not, gone, since, I, was, 26. You, have, really, good, teeth.

Thank, you., I, floss, daily., I, water, pick. I brush twice a day. I'm very on top of my oral hygiene. But it is disgusting and embarrassing to admit I have not been to the dentist in that long. But after I turned 26 and I went off my parents insurance, I just didn't think that I could afford going to a dentist

which, I, actually, don't, think, that's, the case. But then we did get into sticky financial situation and I really we really couldn't afford to go to the dentist. So now I'm like, okay, like we're normal. We could we should schedule a dentist appointment.

Maybe, just, one, visit. Yeah. For, the, kids,, I, have, like, it's, not, even like, they're, on, insurance., They, have a membership at their dentist office.

I, feel, like, we, should, do, that. They, probably, have, that, for, adults,, too. Yeah, it's cute. Yeah

just, get, a, cleaning., Actually,, you, know what? Teresa, one year for Christmas our mother-in-law got me a dental cleaning

for, Christmas., Ask, her, for, that, for Christmas. That's, a, great, gift, idea.

I, know., She, got, that, for, me, a, couple years ago. Wow., Okay., Um, that's

by, a, couple,, I, mean, more, than, that. Okay. Um this one's relatively randes so maybe I'll just fire them both off. But, uh check out books from the library.

Oh,, yeah. That, was, such, a, classic, thing, I, did, as, a kid. Like I would go every Saturday morning with my dad and we would just like stock like stock up on books and like I'm still a big reader to this day and I think a lot of it has to do with those like traditions of going with my dad and my dad would also like it wasn't just like he's going to get children's books with me. He would also go and like he had like a stack of books on hold to check out for himself and read. And it was like I feel like that made me want like a lifelong reader because I saw my dad doing it for fun and it was also just like fun to go to the library. I'm like, it's free. I feel like the kids could like pick it out on their own and they my boys already love to read and I think this would just be like a fun thing to do and also fun in the community. I mean, heck, you never know who you can meet at the library. They

have a lot of events. We go to the library story times somewhat, frequently., Well,, I, never, check out books.

I, got, my, first, library, card, a, couple weeks ago since the first time I was literally a ch a small child. And you know what, they, told, me?, They, said,, "We don't charge for late books." And in my head that anymore

in, my, head, I, thought, that's, nice, but, I feel like you should have some accountability on these people. Like I need accountability to return my books.

Yeah. So, I'm, pro, bringing, the, charge, back if that's what I'm saying. Maybe, people, just, weren't, paying, them because it's like what are they going to do?

Yeah., Truly, going, to or, maybe, people, couldn't, come, back, to get their books back. I don't know.

Yeah., I, guess, I, don't, want, to, like discourage people from checking out books.

They, like, take, out, a, lead, on, your, house. you need to return my chapter book.

Another, light-hearted, one, though, I, have like related to the kids is work on letters and numbers with the kids more. This came because my kids can count but I realize if I were to point to a number they don't know which I think is developmentally normal but they don't know what the numbers look like and they really don't know what the letters look like either. Like we talk a lot about like a a apple like we do all that. We count with the numbers but I'm like I haven't done the extra step of like this is what it looks like. Like if you want to recreate it, this is what it needs to look like. So

we're, going, to, work, on, that, step, in, the new year. It, is, interesting, when, you, start realizing your kids are ready to learn.

Yeah. Like, it, there, is, like, a, a, fast, shift, in that. Well,, and, also, since, our, kids, stay, home, like I feel like if they do go to preschool, they're like really kept to like their milestones more so.

Totally. Which, is, a, good, thing, about, that., But, we can also do that at home.

Yeah,, I, agree., It's, a, great, one., I, want to do 10 minutes a day of uninterrupted play with the kids. And we've been talking about this a lot, but I have noticed a huge difference, especially when I'm working from home, I try to keep work time to naps, but obviously that's just sometimes not feasible. And if I'm busy running around the house doing things, and I can tell when CJ starts to get anxious and want my attention more because he'll start to act out or, you know, and it's I'm like man, I just need to sit down and have 10 minutes with him. And I've noticed a huge

a, huge, shift, in, the, day, when, I've, done that. So, I want to continue that and try to make that a goal daily.

That's, a, really, good, one. It's, so, simple., It's, just, like, I, feel like we get in these modes of wanting to do our tasks and clean and cook and, you know, get our work done and it's it can be easy to miss

but, it's, it's, been, really, beneficial. I, think, that, comes, from, Dr., Aean., Like, I feel I feel like a lot of people say that, but he said that like 10 minutes of uh specifically child le play like where they like kind of pick what you're doing or like

Mhm. like, you, impressed, me, too, cuz, you're like the other day I was climbing under the table with CJ. I'm like good good on you.

Oh, my, gosh,, my, neck, hurts, so, bad. Like, this, is, fun. I, was, in, a, full, half, under, the, table.

Full, half, up., But yeah,, that's, how, I, feel, cuz, Griffin's thing is always asking me to chase him and sometimes I'm like I need to be sure to say yes sometimes because sometimes I'm like there's I can't right now. I can't chase you. You're exhaust. Sometimes I watch you do that. I'm like dang, she's got good st like I actually get really tired right about now. But then sometimes he wants me to catch him and sometimes he doesn't want me to catch him. Like I messed up. I can't I'm trying to read the room right now. Is it me catch you type of thing? I accidentally knocked him over. I was catching one time. I was like, "Oh my gosh, my bad."

He's, like,, "My, leg.", He, said,, "No,, do, that. Don't, do, that,, mama.", So, sad.

That's, a, good, goal. Yeah., I, I, think, that's, an, easy, one. This, one, is, kind, of, boring,, but, like, it needs to happen. And honestly, some of you listeners, you need to hear this one, too.

Inspire, us. I, need, to, organize, the, pain, points, in, my house. Oh,, yeah.

And, create, a, system., Not, just, organize it, but create a system so it doesn't happen again. I'm thinking about my mudroom. Every time I walk through that space,

I'm, just not, happy., I'm, like,, this, is, just, a mess. So, I want to create like a system for it, too. Like, find a thing, find what to do with the kids shoes, our shoes, the socks. How can they get back in there? How can we organize that? Think about the that'll be the first one I tackle. But then I feel like once I get one done, I'll be inspired to do the other pain points. Probably my pantry. Maybe that could use some work. Like

my, pantry, is, crazy. Create, a, system, there., So yeah,, I, like, that., That's, a, good, That's a very good goal. And you just start with one thing at a time.

One, thing, at, a, time. I, always, I, like, the, question., Are, you There are three things. Clean, tidy organized.

Yeah., I, would, say, I'm, clean, and, I'm tidy, but I'm not organized. My house is no systems.

I, would, give, myself, clean, and, tidy. Yeah,, I, feel, like, we're, very, similar.

Not, organized., And, it, bo, But, here's, the thing. It bothers me when it's not organized. It's not like I'm like, "Ah no big deal." Like, it does kind of bother me. Like I look at the kids clubhouse in our house.

It's, just, a, a, closet, with, toys. It's, a, bomb., It's, a, bomb. I'm, like,, how, do, they, walk, in, here?

I, don't. They're, just, crunching, on, toys., And, when I have to go back there, I'm like, "Ow ow." Like, it's so that that can't be the first one, though. I'll have an aneurysm if I try to do that.

Honestly,, maybe, I, need, to, document, that journey. It's literally so spooky in there.

I, love, that. Yeah., Yeah., Clubhouse, is, really, a stretch. Let's be honest. It's

a, closet, with, where, a, bomb, went, off. I, feel, like, kids, need, a, space, where, they can just be a bomb, though.

I, agree., That's, what, Matt, says., But, I'm also like, what about just a couple bins

to, put, them, in?, Yeah., So,, we, have, floor space to walk. Sure, that's reasonable.

Yeah, I'll, never, be., Here's, what, I'll, never be. I'll Mark my words, I probably won't never, be,, but, you, know what?, Maybe, I'll change my mind down the line. I don't think I could be a toy rotation mom.

No,, I, had, hopes, and, dreams., And, you, know what? I have a bag of toys that sat in our shed for about a year and a half. They've never rotated in.

Oh,, they're, brand, new. Um,, no. Oh,, but, you, took, them, away., Not, now. Yeah, I they're they're not going to

like, there's, a, way, to, do, it., Like, I, have friends that do it. It's like you have to have one that you can do this with and one that you can do this this and I was like, "Oh my gosh

I, feel, like, that's, complicating motherhood more than we need." I, don't, want, another, I, don't, want, to complicate it.

I, don't, need, another, thing. No, maybe, we, just, need, to, keep, a, room, where we just chuck all the toys.

The, playroom., The, clubhouse. Or, the, clubhouse. I, will, say, I, do, keep, I, try, to, keep, his toys minimal.

Like, in, his, play, area,, I'll, I'll, take some out and I'll put them back in his room.

Yeah., Yeah., And, I'll, switch, those, out, but I'm not like intentionally rotating them. I'm just like, he's not playing with this one. I'll throw it in his room and I'll bring out a different one.

It's, better, with, a, one-story, house., With a twotory house, I'm right. My problem is is like toys, part of the toys end up downstairs and part of them end up upstairs and I'm like

this, is, too, much. Too, many, steps. Well,, I, got, a, new, one., Um,, we've, been rotating our toys just because the dogs have been eating them.

Okay. So,, Pretzel, is, probably, going, to, start eating some toys. We, love, force, rotation.

Yeah,, force, force., babysitter, just texted me that she ate the dogs ate something. So

you're, rotating, them, or, you're, throwing them away? We're, throwing, them, away., She's, But, then we get her new toys because they're get they got eaten.

I, will, say, I, feel, like, Louis, has, done that. Louis is our dog. He's done that less with Vivian's toys. Like CJ, who was so excited with all the new toys and they're all squeaky. He doesn't care anymore.

They, like, the, rubber, ones, like, the, bath., They, got, them, out, of, the bathroom.

Oh,, the, teething, toys., Bye-bye. Bye., Bye-bye., Also,, that, is, why, I, also wrote go on more walks as my goal is because now I have a dog. So, I want to take her on walks when she learns how to walk on a leash. Yes. Better.

Well,, Louis, is, a, great, walker,, but, he's so big that I have to literally tie him to my body. So, that's like a personal problem. That's not a pretzel problem.

Okay. It's, just, my, dog, is, more, of, a, horse. So,, when, I, take, him, a, walk,, I, like wrestling half the time.

Oh, my, god., Well,, he's, big. Okay., Well,, then, why, do, you like, if, he, stops, to, pee,, my, whole, body yanks.

Oh, wow. I'm, like, halted. Yeah., That's, crazy. It's, just, different. I, ain't, a,, dog., I'm, like,, it's actually not resting

with, the, Sandlot, dog. Yeah., Literally,, I, mean,, he's, gotten, a lot better. And I I take him on walks but

pretzel, girl, trained, at, 16, weeks,, so hopefully they can teach her not to pull.

Yeah. And, to, walk, I, think, they're, supposed, to walk ahead, but not obviously not pull.

Yeah. But, right, now,, she's, just, a, puppy,, so she's distracted by every scent. And then I have to sometimes pick her up.

Yeah., They're, Yeah., The, puppy, phase, is horrible to walk. She's, like,, she'll, do, a, decent,, but, then there comes a point where we just end up curing her.

Sure., Sure., This, is, a, more, serious, one. I want to get back into a regular Bible study, routine, and, read, at least, four times a week. I feel like I was really good about this. Even with CJ when he was a newborn, but now being pregnant and having a toddler, I would wake up before CJ before I got pregnant and then I was so tired when I was pregnant that I would not wake up to read my Bible. And so then I was like, uh I just got out of the habit. So, I'm trying to like once now that like I'm not up as much in the night, I can hopefully get back into a better routine of waking up before CJ and reading.

It's, just, good, for, me, to, start, the, day like that. I love that. It took me getting into like an actual study before I was like, "Okay, this has five days and I'm going to see them in seven

so, I, only, got, two." Accountability, is, good. Yeah., No,, it, was, really, good., And, then, I was like, if I don't have this done

I'm, going, to, feel, disappointed internally, but also I will have nothing to contribute. So, I need a little public shame. You can join mine.

Okay., Or, not, mine., The, one, I'm, in. Yeah., Yeah., Yeah. So,, I, need, a, little, public, shame.

I, need, someone, to, be, like,, "Abby,, you failed this week. You, really, let, us, down.

You, let, us, down., You, first, of, all,, most of all, you let God down." And I just need to like sit on that.

I, was, thinking, about, Abby., She, would, be the most receptive to that. I, feel, like, you're, Thank, you, for, that feedback.

You,, like, the, feedback. You're, so, good, about, that., I, need, to work. That's

not, That's, not, how, it, works,, but, I just need to know. Well, if her friend's telling you let God down then maybe that's

maybe, that's, a, little, we, might, need, to review that. I, don't, think, that's, how, that, works.

Turn, back, to, the, scriptures., This, one's uh, not, serious., Good., Switch, it, up.

I, want, to, learn, how, to, make, a, good steak. Oo, I, love, steak. Sure. I, really,, really, love, steak,, but, it, was something that I was just like, I'm have no business cooking that. Like, I need to only go out to eat that.

Sure. I, think, it's, attainable, to, cook, at, home. Totally. And, I, have, a, cast, iron., I, I've, tried before, believe it or not, to make a steak at home. People are like, "You just need a lot of butter and some time and like keep going like or rosemary and just keep it didn't turn out that good."

The, thing, about, that, that, sucks, is, it's like an expensive mistake. You're like "Dang, that's a good 15 piece of meat right there. 15."

That, might, have, been, where, I, messed, up though. I bought cheap steak. I think it might really You got to go store or nothing, babe. Like

I, don't, know, what, cuts, to, get., I, don't know where to get it. How do you tell if it's good? Like, do you get the What do you get? What kind of cut do you get? Steak.

I don't, know., I, feel, like, fillet, is, the best. I, get, sirloin, but, sirloin, when, you're, like, buying, it from the store.

Wait,, is, sirloin, just, cow? No., Filt., No., No., Sirloin, is, a, different cut and fillet is a different cut.

Serin's, the, leanest,, isn't, it? Yeah., My, my, family, used, to, do, sirloins. Um, well done.

That's, how, my, mom, does, it. The, most, dry,, thin,, hard. See,, I, like, fat., I, like, fat, on, my, meat. This is maybe the one area in our lives we differ in.

No,, we, have a, couple., you and desserts, we don't like the same types of desserts.

That's, true. Um,, but, yeah,, I, think, maybe, maybe, our pallets are the one thing that we differ on.

Yeah., Our, taste, buds. Our, taste, buds., I, like, No,, we, have, so, many, different.

Abby,, whenever, we, do, a, pot, roast,, Abby loves to leave the fat in there and I'm like,

it's, the, flavor., Abby, asked, Abigail, to, cut, the, meat, as, a sundae or like pull it apart and Abigail just has a whole side of just the fat and she's like, "That's not good." Blake goes up. He's like, "Why is this all here?"

Like, your, family, is, like,, "Mate,, mate." I, go,, "I'm, going, to, turn, around, now, and you put it back in there and I won't watch."

I'm, the, best, part, of, the, roast,, girl. That is good. Oh, yeah. No, I mean, I get it. A lot of people don't like it. I just

can't, really, I, like, I, like, that. Wake, up, at, or, before, 7:00, a.m., Again,, I don't have to expand on that. That's pretty self-explanatory. The days of me sleeping past 7 are probably over [snorts] respectfully. So, you got to have one or two days a week to sleep in. Maybe one is fine. Do you want to hear currently how this is going? I set my alarm for 7:00. I lay in bed

for, You, set, your, alarm, for, 7:00. Yes., But, I, don't, I, don't, wake, up, until at least 7:30. That's when CJ's hatch light turns green and he walks into my bedroom cuz Caleb's gone for work way earlier than I wake up. So CJ walks in he goes, "Mama, the light's green." And then, he, climbs, in, bed, and, I, lay there till 8:00. That is a blessing.

Abby,, I, don't, know., I, feel, like, maybe you should just milk this for all it's worth. The fact

I, know,, but, it's, stressful. It, Okay,, because, then, it's, like, I, have to wake up and nurse and feed CJ all at the same time and and it's just too much., So,, are, you, just, going to, get, less sleep, or, you, going to, go, to, bed, earlier? Here's the thing. This is a pipe dream.

Okay., It's, a, pipe, goal., It's, never going to happen, but I have to say I'll, text, you.

Yeah,, text, me, at, 7, a.m., WAKE, UP. GOSH., WELL,, I, mean,, I, feel, like we'll, get, there.

You're, unique, toddler, mom, that, sense that your kids will allow this to happen. I know CJ's golden.

Such, a, chill, guy,, but, also, loves, to sleep. He's your son. He He really does love to

Okay., Well,, I, mean,, I, only, have, one more. I, have, two, more., You, have, one, more.

Yeah,, you, did, me,, but, I, didn't, take, it personally. Sorry, about, that. It's, okay., I, forgive, you., Caleb, and, I have been talking about dopamine, and we're going to do a Well, this sounds like the most dreadful thing ever, but we're, going to, do, a, dopamine, fast, in, the new year.

Okay., Well, I, don't, really, know what, that, entails, but apparently it takes all the joy out of life. So, no sugar for a week. Listen, Abby, I told you I do not want to do this.

You, guys, have, done, this, before. No. And, it's, honestly, hard, on, everybody.

Well,, I'm, like,, "Let's, get, ice, cream." And it's like "No, I, know." Well,, yeah., I, know., And, we're, No screens,

no, TV, no stimulation, no brain, like no nothing stimulating the brain. So how you gonna work? Well, yeah. See that's my loophole.

Maybe, make, a, YouTube, video, of, it., So, then you're working, but you can't do anything else.

Yeah,, that's, good. I, like, that, idea. But, then, you, can't, post, but, it'll, be, the, most, boring, YouTube video of all time.

No,, I, feel, like, people, have, done, that before. Really? Yeah. It's, just, me, laying, on, the, floor., I'm, so bored.

That's, the, thing., You're, going to, end, up finding other things to do. You get creative.

I, know. No,, I, feel, like, this, is, good., But, I, just don't know why sugar is included in that.

Well,, I, think, it, really, lights, my, brain up. Okay. I, really, love, sugar., I, really, love

Yeah,, we're, really, into, sugar, in, our family anyway. A dopamine fast and hopefully trying to just like be creative and

for, a, week quiet, our, brains. Yeah,, maybe, we, haven't, they, haven't dialed in on the details. Okay, I feel like that's probably what science would say.

Wow. 3, days, or, seven, days. That, sounds, good. Yeah,, I, think, that'd, be, healthy., I'll just say my last one quickly. It's short. I want to do a monthly one-on-one date with CJ and Vivie when she gets older.

Cute, one-on-one, dates,, especially, with CJ now. I could do that. That's really cute.

Yeah., Just, we're, adding, more, kids, to, the fam, so giving them more one-on-one time.

We, did, do, this, and, the, kids, were, so, sad that they weren't together. Oh,, that's, cute.

Have, I, told, you, that?, Augie, was, in, the car and he goes, "What? Griffy are you like in the car just like kept yelling it?" But

yeah,, I, do, want, to, do, that., But they, really, love, to, stick, together.

That's, sweet. Yeah,, but, I, think, it'd, be, good, for, them. They're just attached at the hip. They really are.

Um,, okay., My, last, one., This, one, I, have had on my resolutions and I gotta be honest, failed at it miserably. I got to do it this year. Volunteer more. I think I've made every excuse in the book of like, oh, my kids are too little. Like I have to whatever I have to do. I just want to be more involved in our community and serving more because I just feel like it's a discipline that I used to have a lot.

You, guys, used, to, volunteer, all, the, time. Yeah,, thank, you., And, I, just, I, hate, that I genuinely have lost it. We're at 0% for that. And it's

it's, something, I'm, like,, "Okay,, well,, I can make all these excuses, but if I don't continue this now, like, I'll never continue it." And also model it for our children.

And, we, have, an, organization, that, I really want to volunteer with here locally. And so, no more excuses. Got to do it this year.

Well,, let, me, know, when, you, do, it, cuz we'll join. Yeah., It's, also, a, 0%, on, volunteering. So, I'm not much I'm not any better in that area. Okay. Those are great. Those are good. Okay. We'll check back in later. keep us accountable.

Done. We're, going, to, keep, you, accountable, on your dopamine fast. Wow. Wow.

That's, crazy. That's, really, crazy, and, scary. That'll, be, one, of, those. Can, you, text?, [snorts]

I, don't, know., I'll, let, Caleb, set, the rules and I'll just support him in it.

I'll, just, send, you, a, note, in, the, mail. Just, send, me, letters, all, week.

I'll, get, [gasps], you, on, Sundays, after the fast. So,, should, we, explain, our, Ask, Abby segment?

Yes. What, is, it?, I'm, just, kidding. We're, going, to, ask, Abby., Ask, Ask, Ask Aby's.

So,, this, is, exciting., We, wanted, to, do something where we could incorporate the audience and I think this is like a thing, isn't it? Like Ask Abby.

Ask, Aby's, already, a, thing., There's another There's another Abby who started this. So, we're taking her inspiration.

I, think, it, was, a, column, in, the, newspaper like a while ago. Don't quote me on that but

Well,, we're, giving, her, credit., This, is not an original idea. And we're, not, the, first, Abby's, to, do, this. No, we have a phone number that you guys can actually call in and leave us any type of question, whether it's a personal question for Abby and I, Addy like all of us. If it's an advice question for yourself, get to know us whatever it may be. Do you have the phone number, Addie?

It, is, 602456-9690. And we'll put it in the Instagram bio. Sure. The, description, of, the, show.

Description, of, the, show,, so, you, can, call in whenever's best. I'm, really, excited, for, this., Like, I'm excited to like actually get to hear from you guys and this is fun.

Yeah,, I, think, so, too., See, the, phone?, I wish that was the actual phone that that is the tie would ring.

Yeah,,, literally. Oh,, that, could, be, scary., These, are vetted. We are vetting these questions.

For, this, first, episode,, we, thought, it would be fun to reach out to your guys' friends and family to ask questions or um ask advice. And so we'll play a couple of those. Now, Babies have never heard these, so this will be the first time they've heard them.

I'm, nervous. I'm, excited, cuz, it's, just, our, friends and family. Like, that was really sweet of them.

That, is, sweet. So,, this, is, the, first, one., Some, of, them don't have their names, so I'm interested to see if you can tell.

Oh,, hello. I was wondering how you guys thought of always here. Yay. I'm so excited for you guys.

Oh,, cute. Is, that, Amber? Thanks,, Amber. Okay. So, I feel like I got to give you credit for this one, Abby. Abigail

that's, kind., It, was, I, mean,, we, were trying to think we we had a lot a lot of brainstorming sessions about the name.

Turns, out, a, lot, of our, ideas, were, not creative. They were already existing.

And, turns, out, Chad, GBT's, ideas, weren't creative either. So Chad, GBT, is, plagiarism.

Plagiarism. So, we were thinking, you know, I was kind of like, what is what do we have in common that we would want the logo to be? The logo for the show will probably be our initials. ah because we're both Abby Howard.

We, were, we, have, a, lot, of, names, that, had Abby Howard in it and none of them were.

Yeah., The, biggest, What, was, the, biggest one? Abby, one. Yeah., Abby, Howard, squared.

Abby, Howard,, squared. We're, not, mathematicians., Like that, was, recommended, by, many, different sources. But I was like, "Okay, ah is our, logo., That's, what, we, have in, common. So if we can find a podcast name that the first letter begins with an A and the second later letter letter an H that would be probably would make a lot of sense." And so we typed that into chat and we were like, "Okay, give us some options." And always here was on that list.

Love, it. And, there's, kind, of, the, tiein, of, we're always here for each other. We're family. We're best friends. And we're always here for you guys, our community. And so there's kind of a Yeah. a community element to it. Me too.

Hi, guys., Okay., So,, since, I'm, getting married next year, my question to you is, what is your best advice for being a wife and transitioning into that role? Okay, love you both. Bye

sweetie. A, sweet. I'm, so, excited, for, her., The, number, one thing I always tell people, and it's very simple and it's silly a little bit but I I think you just really have to remind yourself to be kind to one another. it. There's so much going on in the engagement planning process, the wedding. It's stressful and fun at the same time. Then you move in together for the first time. Like in our case, we didn't live together before. So then you're navigating all of these firsts together living with someone and you're meshing your life together. It can be very easy to be impatient or snippy or like get into a lot of small arguments.

And I feel like I found myself a lot of times just being like just respond kindly. And I feel like that saved us a lot from small petty bickering fights of just like taking a deep breath and just being like

"Okay,, like, you, know what, I, mean?, I think, just, remind, remember remembering to be nice like you're nice to them when you're dating

and, you, don't, want, to, lose, that, when you're married, you know, just cuz now you have the covenant."

Mhm. I, don't, know., It's, silly, and, it's simple but just, be, nice. Yeah., I, guess, I, mean, it's, cuz, it's, easy. It's like I know you're going to stay.

Yeah., Um,, mine, is, very, much, along, the same lines, but I feel like say sorry often and quickly. And I feel like that is something that I still need to work on all the time where it's like, okay you, know what?

Me, trying, to, win, this, thing, cuz, what, do they say? If, you're, winning, or, if, they're, winning, you're both losing. And so it can feel

I, feel, like, it's, just, like, my, own self-righteousness in me that's just like no, I don't need to do it. I'm I feel so justified in how I'm behaving. like just like quickly be say sorry quickly and often.

Yeah. And, I, think, that, would, just, resolve, a lot of things. Keep life moving because also you're still living in the same house. You're still sleeping in the same bed. You're still waking up together in the morning.

No, point, in, dragging, these, things, out. And I think that can also become a pattern too. Like in marriage it's like oh we're just going to be silent

or, you, know, hold, this, grudge, for, a certain ex extended amount of time. Yeah, that's, good., getting, that, practice.

Yeah., Don't, be, stubborn, and, don't, keep score. And, I, think, it's, also, reciprocated, too when you do that individually. You need to tell your

Don't, do, it, because, you're, expecting, it to be reciprocated, but I think that it will also benefit you in the end.

Yeah,, totally., Totally. Hi, Abby, and, Abby., I, know, you, guys, are starting your new podcast and you're taking questions. And I have a question for you girls.

So, I, know, that, your, husband, Matt, Caleb are from St. Louis and I know that Abigail is from St. Louis. So, do you guys ever have any plans to ever move back to St. Louis where you can enjoy the Four Seasons and maybe have more family around? Just curious. Thank you. Bye.

Not, the, sales, pitch, in, her, voicemail. I, loved, her. That, was, so sweet.

Your, mom,, you, asked, me, this, daily., I don't know. I don't think the answers changed.

I, feel, like, she, needs, to, move, to Arizona. That's what I'm saying. She, loves, it, here.

I, know., We're, We'll, start, a, petition, to get everyone out here. Is, your, answer, now?

I, mean,, for, right, now,, yeah,, I, don't ever see that happening, but sorry, Mom. I love you so much. I love my family.

Hi,, Mom., Thanks, for, the, question., That was really sweet. Love you. You, did, not, answer, that.

Hi., Um,, I'm, super, excited, that, you, two are starting this new podcast. So, my question is, do you have any special Christmas traditions from when you were a kid that you feel you might also continue with your own kids? Thanks. Bye.

That's, cute. That's, so, sweet., That's, my, mom, and, she actually brought us sparkling apple juice and Lindor chocolates to celebrate today, which is so sweet. We love our supportive family.

Um,, Christmas, traditions., Okay,, this actually maybe is the time to implement my resolution that I forgot to put in.

Oh,, let's um, I'm, really, big, into, traditions,, but I'm also really big into weekly traditions because they truly shaped my childhood. So, I can think of several but like I knew that every Friday night oh, my, gosh,, I'm, going to, get, choked, up thinking about my grandpa. A

I, knew, that, every, Friday, night, I, was going to stay at my grandparents house and, every, morning, I, was, going to, wake, up and have blueberry egg waffles and hot chocolate with my grandparents and I was going to go to the library with my dad. Sometimes we go bowling. Like Wednesday nights we would get dinner with my grandparents. Sundays we had dinner at my grandparents. Like we had a lot of weekly traditions that truthfully are the things that stand out the most when I look back on being a kid. And it's not like I really loved our memories at Disney. I really loved our memories from traveling. But like when I think about like that nostalgic feeling of just like being a kid, it really always takes me back to like those Friday nights, those Sunday afternoons, like those weekly things. And so I have always, this has been something I've been really aware of the entire time we've had kids. I'm

like, especially because I don't live in my hometown and I we didn't have family out here when we first had kids. I was like, I want to have weekly traditions. And so I started doing Sunday dinner but so I have Sunday dinner on we host it, at, our, house, every, week, most, of the time unless something comes up, but I really try to stick to that.

And, then, um, I, want, to, instate, two, new weekly traditions, one or two new this year. That's very ambitious, but they don't have to be huge. Like I'm like Friday night we could get pizza and watch a movie or we could do like oh we play games on this night or something like that. cute.

But, I, had, a, lot, of, traditions, in, my, own household. We played games like every single night growing up. That's my mom right there. We played a lot of games. We play bananagrams. And I was like when I got married, I was like, we're going to play bananagrams all the time. Matt hates bananagrams.

Oh, no. So, this, is, part, of, starting, a, tradition. We play Monopoly Deal, the two of us. Oh, that's good marriage advice. If you're mad, find a game that you can play where you don't have to talk and you can like avoid the subject of whatever is making you mad. And by the end of playing the game

might, not, matter, so, much, anymore. Yeah,, it's, lighthearted. It's, lighthearted., It, helps, get, you distracted and you're like, "We're actually friends. This is our game that we put together."

Yeah,, it's, sweet. All, that, to, say,, Christmas, traditions, we had a lot of them, but I rem I remember so many like really fondly. Well, you start cuz I just talked a lot. Oh, well, I was thinking about it. I I think that's true, Abby. I like the idea of traditions and I that's an killer I've talked a lot about, too. For Christmas, I loved if the night before Christmas, obviously, we would put cookies out for Santa and carrots out for the reindeer. And that was always very fun and exciting. I would always make a big deal about it. So, I want to do that with CJ. And also, we did Staint Nick on December 5th, I think, which I didn't do that with CJ this year, but we'd put our shoe on our fireplace and Staint Nick would come and give us like a pre- gift for Christmas, which was so fun cuz, you know, the anticipation until Christmas Day is so crazy.

You, get, all, the, presents, at, once. Yes., And, so,, it, was, always, fun, having that little like taste of and it was kind, of the, intro, into, the, holiday season. And so I think that'd be cute to continue.

That's, really, sweet. Yeah. From, when, I, was, really, little, at, like the more traditional church we would go to as a kid, they did a Christmas pageant every year of like the Christmas story and they would always give the biggest candy bags.

I, remember, this, every, year., That's, what I remember. They gave the best like candy bags all the assortment. I really remember that. I also remember me and my brother both are very fixated on traditions. cuz I feel like Can you kind of feel like definitely it's that way.

Yeah,, we're, both, like, that., Um, we, would always get Taco Bell on Christmas Eve and play Monopoly.

A, that's, fun., We, did, that, one, year, and then the next year we're like we didn't even have to have a conversation like we're doing that again.

We're, going, to, do, this., We're, going, to do this often. And, so, now, every, year, on, Christmas, Eve I'm like this just feels kind of weird that we're not eating Taco Bell and playing Monopoly.

Well, that's, like, last, year, Blake, made, a roast for either Christmas Day or Christmas Eve and he's like so should I do a roast again? like he's like, "We did that last year, so are we like going to keep this going and it be a tradition?"

I, really, think, it, gave, us, such, a, sense of like stability. Yeah. I felt very safe as a kid and I feel like that played a role in that.

Yeah., I, think, I, always, hear, about, your guys' traditions. Like I know your traditions. Like I can tell you that on Friday nights you spent your night at your grandparents house and then you'd watch cartoons in the morning with the egg waffles. Like you didn't need to tell me that. Blake has told me that so many times.

Yeah., That's, sweet. We, like, really, locked, in, on, those., I think it was like our family though too. Like they really prioritized family time. It was nothing ex like extravagant. But like that just made me feel so safe as a kid. And like it also played into Christmas. Like also we would get Christmas this is a long one. We get Christmas Eve dinner with our Amish family. I love that.

Made, great, food., I, believe, it. Okay., I, have, two, more, and, they're, each directed towards each of you. One of you.

Hello., Always, here, ladies., I, have, a, a comment and a question. Oh for, Abby., Uh,, first, off, want, to, say, I'm so proud of you and the woman you are and the mom you are.

He's, talking, about, me,, right? Excited, for, your, guys, podcast, and, and journey. Um, excited to see where this goes. So, my question is, what is something that I do sometimes but wish I did more frequently in marriage. So, I'll leave it with that. Love you.

That, is, so, sweet., Caleb, is, so, tender., It was just my birthday and he sent the like probably the nicest text I've ever

he, read, it, to, me, and, said, oh, my, gosh that was nicer than what I sent her. That was so sweet. I was like that's amazing.

So, nice. I, know., I, love, that, he, sent, that., Okay. That's cute. Something that he does in marriage I wish he did more.

That's, a, good, question. A, I, don't, want, to, like, put, him, on, the spot. Hey, he invited it. I think he should write me more love notes. He used to write me love notes all the time and I have like I have pages of them. I I save them like Matt does. And yeah they're getting a little stale, babe.

Refresh. We, need, a, little, refresh, on, the, notes. Thanks, for, asking. Okay,, last, one.

Hey, cutie,, it's, your, husband,, Matt., Um, I just wanted to call in and first of all, say how insanely proud I am of you for launching the show. This is a really big deal and I just I actually can't believe you're doing this. I know you've talked about doing your own show with Abby for actually years now. So, I'm so proud of you. I'm so proud of you guys. But my my question for you is what does it look like for a husband to adore his wife in a way she can feel every day right? Because I think there's big gestures that we can make as husbands to make our wives feel adored and loved but you know what's what's maybe like a small thing, a daily thing that goes a long way and something maybe that really matters to you. So I love you. Uh I'm so proud of you and I can't wait to listen to the first episode. Go you.

A that's, sweet., It's, so, sweet. I, thought, of, two, things,, but, one, of, them is just so like why is it a big deal? But why do I like feel so taken care of when he makes my coffee in the morning?

I'm, like, that, just, makes, me, I, don't, know about adored I but like I don't know take I think it's I'm a service girl. So like your words of affirmation are you?

I'm, all, of, all, of, them. Okay. Yeah., There's, quality, time, is, my, biggest one.

Okay., Well, um, like, he's, made, my, coffee the past like several mornings. Like he just comes in with it. I'm like, "You knew I needed that." But it just makes me It feels like a movie whenever that happens. I'm like "I feel like I'm just living in a romcom where I just wake up and my husband super hot and makes me cough."

Um,, but, another, one, I, think, um, that, I also want to do more of myself is just like acknowledging efforts because sometimes I feel like with the daily life, especially as a mom and a wife like your role it's just easy. It's just it becomes routine and so it just becomes like okay like this is what I do and this is what you do but like I think it goes both ways like okay yes this is an expectation that we do this every single day basically or every week but just acknowledging it every single time or like a lot of the times

still, makes, me, just, feel, really, seen, and like appreciated and ultimately adored when that happens. He's like gosh this dinner is delicious like thank you so much. I'm like

thanks, you're, welcome. Thanks., Yeah. I've, made, it, for, you, 500, times. You, love, it.

That's, really, sweet. Yeah. Oh,, we, love, you, guys., I, love, your husband. I, can't, believe, we, did, this.

I, feel, I'm, sweaty., So I, am, sweating, as, well. I, I, am, excited., This, is, like, the, biggest thing I've committed to in a really long time. And I feel very honored that you asked and that you trusted me with this. And that I feel like you're right. This timing was perfect. And I'm excited to go on this journey with you guys. Yeah. And I just shout out to everyone for all of the work that came.

A, lot, of, work, for, everyone. Yeah., A, lot, of, work, going, in,, especially Addie. Like, thank you so much. We'll get, some, of the, kinks, worked, out, as future episodes go, but this was really fun and just really appreciate y'all supporting the show and tuning in to our first episode. Call the number if you feel so inspired and we'd love to listen to you on the show.

And, remember,, we're, always, here.

Questions about this episode

Who speaks in "Our origin story, marriage advice, & 2026 resolutions"?

Abby Howard (Host), Abigail Howard (Host), Addie (Guest), Amber (Guest), Unidentified Caller (Bride-to-be friend) (Guest), Unidentified Caller (Abigail's mother) (Guest), Unidentified Caller (Abby's mother) (Guest), Caleb Howard (Guest).

What is "Our origin story, marriage advice, & 2026 resolutions" about?

The content explores the dynamic between two friends who share the same name, reflecting on their initial perceptions of each other and their journey together. It touches on themes of marriage advice, companionship, and setting resolutions, all while blending humor and heartfelt moments.

What is mentioned in this Always Here episode?

27 people, works and ideas are mentioned, including James CJ, Abby, Addie, Always Here, Always Here, Abigail. Each one on this page links to its own page with every episode that mentions it.

How long is "Our origin story, marriage advice, & 2026 resolutions"?

The episode runs 1 h 9 min; the transcript is about 15,987 words in 430 timestamped sections.

More from Always Here

About this transcript: the episode's spoken words as captioned on YouTube, split into timestamped sections. Reclip.Me locates every person, work and idea in the text, keeps the time it is first named, and quotes the words around it verbatim. Last updated January 24, 2026.