Beyond the Mess
Celebrating Joy and Laughter with Jenny and Dave Marrs
“Life is busy, chaotic, and messy,” Jenny Marrs aptly describes. Yet, in this whirlwind, she finds something deeper, something more profound – it is “abundantly joyful and full of laughter.” This heartening perspective from Jenny, shared alongside her husband Dave during their interview with Family Life Radio, offers their very real but refreshing view on balancing the complexities of life. We hope their insights inspire you to navigate through your own bustling days, to find joy and laughter amidst the chaos.
The Marrs’ unique experiences as a couple working together in a “strange job,” as Jenny puts it, offer valuable perspectives for anyone juggling multiple roles in life.
Jenny begins by acknowledging the challenges they face, but also the benefits of working together. “It’s hard, I think, but it’s good,” she says. This shared professional journey allows for a deeper understanding between them. “If we were to come home at the end of the day and try to explain our day to the other, it would be very confusing,” Jenny explains. This mutual understanding is a cornerstone of their relationship, helping them empathize with each other’s fatigue or stress.
Navigating Professional and Personal Roles
Traveling for work, a common aspect of their professional life, brings unique challenges, especially as parents. “We both have to go together. And it’s really hard,” Jenny admits. They rely on a trusted nanny to manage things at home, but the logistics of ensuring everything is in order before leaving are complex. Yet, they also find joy in these trips. “When we do go, we try to have fun as well,” Jenny adds, emphasizing the importance of making these moments count.
Bringing their children along on trips is another way they blend their work with family life. Jenny recalls a trip to San Diego where they brought their daughter, Silvie. “It was such a sweet memory,” she says. These experiences are not just about work; they are about creating special one-on-one time with each of their children.
Dave reflects on the constant struggle to balance time and responsibilities. “We don’t do it well. We figure it out as we go,” he candidly admits. This humility and recognition that they’re learning and growing in their roles as parents and partners is something you can probably relate to.
Their approach to managing time together is pragmatic. “We don’t do a lot of date nights,” Jenny says. Instead, they find moments during the day, like lunch, to connect. This adaptation to their busy schedule is a testament to their commitment to both their relationship and their role as parents.
Prioritizing Faith, Family, and Work
For Jenny and Dave, their faith plays a crucial role in their decision-making. “God’s got this,” Jenny asserts, discussing how they handle opportunities and publicity. They pray about their decisions, ensuring that their choices align with their faith and benefit their family.
Dave emphasizes their priorities: “Faith, family, work.” They’ve established boundaries with their production company and network, asserting that Sundays are off-limits, for example. “We have boundaries where, no, you can’t film on Sundays,” Dave says.
Differences That Strengthen
The Marrs also acknowledge their differences and how these contribute to their dynamic. Jenny describes Dave as someone who could “run for mayor” because of his love for interacting with people. Dave, in contrast, sees Jenny as someone who needs time to recharge. “Jenny starts at 100, and every interaction takes a little bit out of her,” he observes. Recognizing and respecting these differences is part of what makes their partnership work.
Saying No When Necessary
An essential part of their balance is the ability to say no. “There are a lot of business involved where people are telling us, ‘You’ve got to go do this,'” Jenny shares. But they have learned to decline when it doesn’t align with their priorities. “We have to say no, a lot of things,” she adds, emphasizing the importance of staying true to their values.
While perfection is unattainable, striving for balance, maintaining priorities and embracing each other’s differences can create a fulfilling and harmonious life. Like the Marrs, you’re probably figuring it out as you go, and that’s perfectly okay.
Read an excerpt from Jenny’s new book, House + Love = Home here.
Jenny Marrs is a vibrant soul, a designer, author and a heartfelt advocate for community transformation and orphan care worldwide. Alongside her husband Dave, she breathes new life into historic homes in Northwest Arkansas on their HGTV show, “Fixer to Fabulous.” At home, Jenny’s life is a beautiful tapestry of family love with five children and a bustling farm life. Her heart extends beyond her doorstep, leading to the creation of The Berry Farm. This project not only delights local families with berry-picking and events but also supports vital initiatives in Zimbabwe, turning local actions into global impacts. Jenny’s journey is a testament to living a life filled with purpose, creativity, and compassion.
Learn more at https://www.daveandjennymarrs.com/
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