From "Clair de Lune" to Cowboy Boots: How Habits Shape Hearts
Your quiet habits are shaping your family (even if you don’t see it yet)
Last week, I came home from work and before I even reached the front door, I heard my 12-year-old son at the piano. The melody was unmistakable—”Clair de Lune,” by Debussy.
Before you jump to any romanticized ideas about my offspring, let me assure you—this boy is 100% a little Texas ruffian. He wears cowboy boots everywhere (often without socks unless I catch him first) and just hung a “Fart Zone” sign on his bedroom door. 🫣
So when I walked in to find him playing Debussy, I was stunned.
“Where did you learn that?” I asked as he replayed the stanzas with a proud grin.
“You always listen to it when you’re resting,” he shrugged. “I hear it all the time, so I looked it up.”
Two things you should know: Caleb starts piano lessons this week to nurture that musical streak. And most afternoons, I take 20 minutes to rest—sometimes just listening to my playlist or guided prayer app.
Here’s the truth I want you to carry into your week: your children are noticing. Your husband is noticing. Your friends are noticing.
Even if no one says a word, they see the little ways you honor your rest, protect your peace, nurture your faith, savor beauty, and pour yourself into meaningful work.
Those small rhythms shape the atmosphere of your home—and the hearts within it.
Some days it feels like what we do in private doesn’t matter. But then—at the most unexpected moment—you step into a scene and suddenly see the fruit of your quiet, faithful stewardship.
A son learning to play the song you listen to when you rest.
A daughter making tea the same way you do on a slow morning.
A spouse taking a deep breath before responding in a hard conversation.
A friend mentioning how calm and steady you seem, without knowing the little practices that help you get there.
These are the echoes of your presence.
As you start this week, I want to invite you to choose one small habit that brings peace to your heart. It could be a morning walk, an evening prayer, or a midday pause with your favorite music.
You may not see it right away—but your family, friends, and even strangers are catching the overflow of that peace.
And if you need somewhere to start, here’s the playlist I love to play during my rest time—including “Claire de Lune.” I hope it gives you a few minutes of calm today.
With grace,
Kristy 💐