Recently I was sitting at Starbucks doing some planning when I overheard a conversation at the table next to me. A teenage girl was talking with her friend about the dynamics of her family.
I tried not to listen, but certain phrases caught my attention.
“My dad doesn’t really know how to love.”
“He isn’t kind.”
“I think my mom’s favorite is my sister… she doesn’t really talk to me.”
My heart broke as I listened.
What struck me most was not that she sounded sad. Instead, she spoke as if she had already accepted this as normal, as if this was simply what family was supposed to be like. That’s what made my heart ache the most.
I sat there trying to gather the words I might say to her. I knew I couldn’t just let her leave thinking she was unlovable or that this was simply the way life had to be.
Quick words have never been my strength , so as I was trying to figure out what to say, I prayed a silent prayer.As she stood up to leave, I found the courage to speak.
“I’m so sorry but couldn’t help but to overhear part of your conversation. I just wanted to say I’m really sorry for what you’ve experienced.”
I apologized to her for the way she had been treated, even though I wasn’t the one who hurt her. I told her that sometimes people simply don’t know how to love well. But that she is worthy of love.
I told her she has the opportunity to learn something different through this pain and to become someone who loves well, even if she didn’t receive it herself.
She thanked me and was very kind.
But as she walked away, I immediately thought of all the things I should have said.
I should have asked if I could give her a hug.
I wish I had shared my faith more clearly.
Instead, I tried to find a way to connect with her without sounding like some strange woman inserting myself into her life in a random moment .. but then it made me think.. why? Why was I worried over that instead of looking at it as an opportunity to love?
Why is it sometimes so hard to encourage others or show love , especially to people we don’t know?
There so many people who have accepted the lie that they are unlovable and for so many reasons . Sometimes it’s because of circumstances.Sometimes it’s self-preservation.Sometimes it’s simply the story they’ve been told long enough to believe.
But what if we chose to love people and to step out of our comfort zones ?
Even strangers.
What if one small moment of kindness could change the direction of someone’s life?
Recently I’ve been reading about D.L. Moody, and one story about him stood out to me. Early in his life, an elderly man gave him a single penny just for walking with him, listening, and encouraging him in his faith.
It was such a small interaction.
Yet Moody never forgot it.
I’ve also been reading the book The Body Keeps Score, which discusses how early environments shape behavior. One study described two groups of mice: one raised in a nest with warmth and plenty of food, and another raised in a poor, stressful environment.
When both groups were frightened by a loud noise, they ran back to their nests ,whether the environment was good or bad.
It made me pause.
Even when something is unhealthy, we often return to what feels familiar.
Maybe that teenage girl has learned to run back to the only “home” she knows …even if it isn’t the love she deserves.
And maybe that’s why small moments of kindness matter more than we realize.
A word.
An apology.
A reminder that someone is worthy of love.
Perhaps those moments plant seeds that grow later.
And maybe the next time I feel the nudge to speak kindness into someone’s life, I won’t hesitate.
Because sometimes a single moment of love or kindness can echo far longer than we could ever imagine ❤️
“Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” 1 John 3:18
Have you ever had a moment where you felt prompted to encourage a stranger? Or where a stranger’s kindness impacted you?
A simple moment at Starbucks turned into a powerful reminder about kindness, encouragement, and the impact of speaking life into someone else. This faith filled reflection explores why small moments of love and courage can plant seeds we may never see grow.
We’re on a mission to visit every American Girl store in the U.S.! Come along as we explore the beautiful American Girl Dallas store—from the doll salon to the adorable café and interactive displays. Perfect inspiration for a mother-daughter day or family travel stop.
Watching whale sharks glide past the massive viewing windows at the Georgia Aquarium is a moment that leaves both kids and adults in awe. Read about our family experience visiting this incredible Atlanta attraction
We’ve been on a mission to visit all of the American Girl stores across the United States, and on our recent trip we were able to check the American Girl Dallas location off our list.
Oh my goodness—it was such a beautiful store! I mean, who am I kidding? They are all beautiful. But right when you walk in, you’re greeted by a bright, open space with the café off to the left. This was actually the first time we’ve seen the café positioned so openly near the entrance. When the store was still in Seattle, the café was on the same floor but still felt a little more tucked away.
Everything felt bright and inviting. We loved the wall filled with picture frames of past dolls and books—it was such a fun way to celebrate the history of the brand.
It was also fun exploring all the different themed rooms throughout the store. One of our favorite discoveries was a party room set up for a special gingerbread house event. It looked like the perfect place for a doll-themed celebration.
Gingerbread house decorating
One of the things that makes the Dallas store extra special is that it’s part of the newer American Girl experiential store design. The two-level space is about 14,700 square feet and even includes a stunning floor-to-ceiling dollhouse display that stretches between the floors. Between the full café with tea trays and treats, the Doll Salon where girls and dolls can get matching hairstyles, and all the fun photo spots throughout the store, it really feels like stepping into a unique doll world.
Floor to ceiling doll house✨
One of my girls’ absolute favorite parts was the oversized book seat. We seriously need one of those in our house! It looked like a giant open storybook that you could actually sit on, which made for such a fun photo moment.
Book bench! It’s a Samantha book 📕
Next, we headed up the staircase, which was again lined with beautiful framed images of the dolls and their books. On the second floor is where you’ll find the doll hair salon, which is the perfect stop to have your doll styled while you continue shopping.
Love this wall!!
There were so many fun things to choose from—it was honestly hard to decide. But I think that’s always the case whenever we visit one of the American Girl Doll stores!
Such a glam elevator
As I watched my girls explore the world of American Girl —from the dolls and stories to the little details that spark imagination—it reminded me how special these moments of childhood are. There is something beautiful about watching kids step into stories, dream big, and create their own adventures.
Book love
Sometimes as parents we get busy planning the trip, managing the schedule, or figuring out the next stop. But moments like this remind me to pause and simply enjoy watching them experience wonder.
Childhood is such a gift, and these little adventures—whether it’s a hike, a road trip, or even a visit to a doll store—become memories that stay with our families for years to come.
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights.” James 1:17
If you’re planning a visit to the American Girl store in Dallas, here are a few tips that can help make the experience even more special.
🫖 Make Café Reservations
The in-store café is a popular spot for families. If you plan to enjoy tea, lunch, or a special treat with your doll, it’s a good idea to reserve a table ahead of time. The tiered trays with tea sandwiches and desserts make it such a memorable experience for girls and their dolls.
💇 Bring Your Doll for the Salon
Upstairs you’ll find the Dolled Up Salon, where dolls can get their hair styled. From simple brushing and braids to more elaborate looks, it’s a fun experience that makes the visit feel extra special.
⏰ Plan Enough Time to Explore
Give yourself at least 1–2 hours to explore the whole store. Between the displays, the dollhouse area, the salon, and all the shopping options, there’s a lot to see.
🎉 Check for Special Events
The Dallas location sometimes hosts seasonal activities and themed events, like crafting or holiday celebrations. If your trip lines up with one of these, it can make your visit even more memorable.
📸 Bring Your Camera
There are so many adorable photo opportunities throughout the store, especially if your kids love capturing memories with their dolls.
🧳 Bring an extra suitcase
We learned this lesson the hard way! If you are planning to shop then make sure you can fit what you purchase in your luggage . It’s always good to have some extra space just to be sure.
Best Photo Spots in the American Girl Dallas Store 📸
If your kids love photos (or if you’re a blogging mom like me!), there are several fun spots throughout the store that make perfect picture moments.
📚 The Oversized Storybook Bench
One of our favorite spots was the giant open book seat. It looks like you’re sitting inside a storybook and makes such a fun and unique photo.
🏠 The Two-Story Dollhouse
The large two-level dollhouse display is one of the coolest features of the Dallas store. It’s colorful, detailed, and a great backdrop for photos.
🎨 The Dear Giana Mural
The bright mural by local teen artist Dear Giana adds so much personality to the store. It’s colorful and fun and makes a great backdrop.
💇 The Salon Area
If your doll is getting a hairstyle at the salon, be sure to snap a photo of the transformation!
📖 The Doll & Book Wall
The wall filled with framed pictures of American Girl dolls and their books is both beautiful and nostalgic—especially for longtime fans of the brand.
Love the star seats!
These moments of laughter, imagination, and time together truly are gifts.
Check out our review of the American Girl Los Angeles store ⬇️
The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere and home to the only whale sharks in the United States. We were so excited to have the opportunity to add this stop to our travel plans.
Located in downtown Atlanta near Centennial Olympic Park, it’s one of the most popular attractions for families visiting the city.
From massive ocean exhibits to interactive experiences and live shows, it offers a unique opportunity to see marine life up close while learning more about ocean conservation.
Manta ray gliding through the water 💦
The whale sharks are definitely a highlight. They are massive, and it was beautiful to see their spots reflecting in the water as they swam by. Watching them glide past the enormous viewing windows was a reminder that creation doesn’t need to shout to show God’s power—you see it in the gentleness and the quiet moments that leave an unforgettable impact.
Beautiful whale shark …look at the hand pointing in the left corner to get a glimpse of the comparison of size of these gentle giants
There was something incredibly humbling about standing still while these gentle giants moved so effortlessly through the water. It was breathtaking.
The Georgia Aquarium is one of those places that invites awe and wonder for both kids and parents alike. It slows you down in the best way.
I’m so thankful we had the opportunity to experience it as a family. What a wonderful blessing this stop on our trip turned out to be.
We arrived later in the day, so unfortunately we missed several of the live shows. If you’re planning a visit, I definitely recommend arriving earlier so you can experience everything the aquarium offers.
One of our absolute favorite parts was the underwater tunnel, where you walk through as manta rays, sharks, and stingrays glide overhead. We could have sat right there in the middle for hours just watching them. They were massive—and completely mesmerizing.
Moments like that make it impossible not to reflect on how creative and intricate God is. The diversity, the size, the beauty — all of it points to a Creator who delights in detail.
“How many are your works, Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.”
Psalm 104:24 (NIV)
After spending a day exploring the incredible exhibits, watching whale sharks glide by, and imagining what a sleepover underwater would be like, it’s easy to feel inspired and amazed. But planning a visit to the Georgia Aquarium can feel a little overwhelming if you’re bringing the whole family.
To make your trip smoother and more enjoyable, here are some practical tips and recommendations for families, including what to see, when to go, and how to make the most of your day.
Practical Tips for Visiting Georgia Aquarium With Kids
Best Exhibits for Families
Ocean Voyager
Start here. It’s the most jaw-dropping and can get crowded later in the day.
Cold Water Quest
Beluga whales are always a hit with younger kids.
Shark Gallery
Great for older kids learning about predators and ecosystems.
Tropical Diver
Bright, colorful, and perfect for littles who love finding “Nemo” style fish.
What Makes It Special
Whale sharks (the largest fish in the ocean) Massive floor-to-ceiling viewing windows Beluga whales Manta rays and sharks Interactive touch pools Dolphin presentations (check schedule in advance)
Best time to go
Go early for calmer crowds Start with Ocean Voyager before kids get tired .Try planning around the morning or evening hours.
Take breaks—there are quiet, dark rooms that help regulate sensory overload
Bring snacks (or plan a food stop nearby)
Strollers are allowed, but baby carriers are easier in crowds
Where to park
Georgia Aquarium has a main parking garage located at 357 Luckie Street NW. This multi-level deck includes general parking in addition to spots dedicated to electric vehicle charging and disability parking. There are also elevators on every level for easy access to the main entrance.
Purchase your parking in advance to save time
Behind the Seas Tours
This tour gives visitors a chance to see what happens behind the scenes of the aquarium.
During this guided tour, guests can explore areas that aren’t normally open to the public and learn more about how the aquarium cares for its animals and maintains the massive habitats throughout the facility. It’s a fascinating opportunity for anyone curious about marine life, conservation, and the work that goes into running such an incredible place.
For those who enjoy learning more about marine science or simply want a deeper look at the aquarium beyond the exhibits, the Behind the Seas tour offers a unique perspective and a greater appreciation for the care and effort that goes into protecting these animals.
For homeschool families especially, this tour could be a wonderful opportunity to see the science and care behind maintaining such a large marine environment.
Sleepover: Sleep under the Sea
One experience we thought sounded especially unique was the Sleep Under the Sea program. Instead of counting sheep, guests get the chance to fall asleep while watching fish glide by the massive aquarium windows.
During this overnight experience, guests arrive in the evening and enjoy special access to the aquarium after hours. The sleepover includes admission beginning around 6:45 p.m. the evening of your stay, along with access to the aquarium again the following day.
Throughout the evening, participants can enjoy presentations, guided tours, activities, a bedtime snack, and even a complimentary breakfast the next morning. One of the most memorable parts is rolling out your sleeping bag right in front of one of the aquarium’s incredible gallery windows and drifting off to sleep while the marine life moves quietly through the water.
If we get the opportunity to go back, this is the one we would do! What an amazing opportunity!!
Animal Encounters
For families looking for an even more memorable experience, they also offer several animal encounters that allow visitors to get closer to some of the aquarium’s most incredible marine life.
These experiences are guided by staff and give guests the opportunity to learn more about the animals while seeing them up close in a unique way.
Dolphin Encounter
One of the most popular experiences is the dolphin encounter. During this program, visitors can step into shallow water and interact with the dolphins while learning about their behaviors, training, and conservation efforts.
Sea Lion Encounter
The sea lion encounter allows guests to go behind the scenes and see these playful animals up close while learning about how the trainers care for them and the important role aquariums play in protecting marine life.
Beluga Whale Encounter
This is a truly special opportunity to see the beautiful beluga whales up close. Guests can observe and interact with the whales alongside trained staff while learning about their unique characteristics and natural habitats.
Shark and Ray Experiences
The aquarium also offers experiences where guests can safely get closer to sharks or rays while learning about their role in ocean ecosystems and the importance of protecting these misunderstood animals.
Tips for Booking Animal Encounters
Animal encounters are separate experiences and require an additional reservation and fee beyond general admission. These spots can fill up quickly, especially during weekends and holidays.
If you’re interested in one of these encounters, it’s best to reserve your spot in advance through the aquarium’s website or guest services when planning your visit.
Even if you don’t book an encounter, simply watching these animals in their exhibits is an unforgettable experience ✨
Although we didn’t book an animal encounter during our visit, it’s definitely something we would consider on a future trip because it would be such a unique experience for kids.
Swims & Dives
For those looking for a truly unforgettable adventure, they even offer the opportunity to SCUBA dive with whale sharks and manta rays inside the Ocean Voyager habitat.
This incredible experience allows certified divers to enter the massive tank and swim alongside some of the aquarium’s most impressive animals, including the gentle whale sharks and graceful manta rays. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see these animals from a completely different perspective.
The aquarium’s Dive Immersion team guides participants through the entire process, providing instruction, answering questions, and ensuring safety throughout the dive.
Because this program is very popular, reservations are limited and spots can fill up quickly. If this is something you’re interested in, it’s best to check availability and reserve in advance when planning your visit.
For those who aren’t certified divers but still want a closer experience with the animals, the aquarium also offers a snorkeling program inside the same Ocean Voyager habitat.
Live Shows
In addition to the exhibits, the Georgia Aquarium also offers two popular live shows: the dolphin show and the sea lion show. These performances are a fun way to see the animals’ intelligence and personalities up close, and they are definitely worth planning your visit around.
Show times vary throughout the day, and the final show is usually scheduled sometime between 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., depending on the day. During most visits, the last show tends to be around 4:00 p.m., but schedules can change, so it’s always best to check the daily schedule when you arrive.
The shows are included with general admission, but you will need to reserve your seats through the aquarium’s app or reservation system once inside the aquarium. Spots can fill up quickly, especially during busy travel seasons, so it’s a good idea to book your show as soon as you arrive.
Unfortunately, we arrived later in the day and missed the shows, but it’s definitely something we would plan around on our next visit.
Conservation Efforts
We really appreciated how much the aquarium emphasizes conservation efforts throughout the exhibits. Caring for our oceans and wildlife is something that affects all of us, yet there aren’t always many opportunities to learn about it in such a meaningful way. Seeing these incredible animals up close while learning how we can help protect them was a powerful reminder of the responsibility we have to care for creation❤️
Here are just a few ways they are doing this ⬇️
Marine Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation
The aquarium works with partners to help rescue and rehabilitate injured or stranded marine animals. For example, they have assisted with the care and treatment of stranded sea lion pups and sea otters before the animals are returned to the wild whenever possible.
They also partner with conservation groups to support sea turtle monitoring and protection programs along the Georgia coast.
Whale Shark Research
Because the aquarium houses whale sharks, scientists are able to study their health, genetics, and behavior in ways that would be nearly impossible in the open ocean.
Researchers track whale sharks in the wild using satellite tags and have studied over 1,000 whale sharks in the Yucatán Peninsula to better understand migration and feeding patterns.
This research helps scientists learn more about a species that is still largely mysterious.
These are just to name a few . Check out their website for more ways they are helping ✨
Our visit to the Georgia Aquarium was truly unforgettable. From the majestic whale sharks to the playful manta rays and the behind-the-scenes learning opportunities, it’s a place that invites awe, curiosity, and plenty of family memories.
If you’re planning your own trip, you can find more information, book tickets, and check daily show schedules here ⬇️
And if you can’t make it in person—or just want a sneak peek before your visit—be sure to check out the live feed below. Watching these gentle giants glide through the water is mesmerizing and a great way to share a little bit of the aquarium magic with the whole family from home✨
No matter how you experience it—online or in person—the Georgia Aquarium is a place where wonder and learning meet, and it’s perfect for kids, homeschoolers, and families who love exploring the natural world together ✨
Before the responsibilities start calling our name.
Psalms 143 reminds me that the first voice I need to hear each day is not the voice of the world — but the voice of the Lord. David’s prayer is simple and honest: Let me hear of your unfailing love. Not productivity. Not success. Not answers to every question. Just love.
Isn’t that what our hearts truly need?
When we begin the day grounded in God’s steadfast love, everything shifts. Our worries shrink. Our plans loosen their grip. Our striving softens. Trust grows.
And then comes the second request: Show me the way I should go.
Not five years from now. Not the full blueprint. Just the next faithful step.
That’s how walking with God works. Daily dependence. Morning by morning mercy. Guidance that meets us in real time.
Psalm 143:8 is a posture prayer. It’s surrender before strategy. Trust before timeline. It is choosing to entrust our lives — the messy, unfinished, beautiful whole of it — into faithful hands.
So tomorrow morning, before your feet hit the floor, whisper it:
“Lord, let me hear of Your unfailing love. Show me the way I should go.”
Today is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent ,a season in the Christian calendar that invites us into reflection, repentance, and remembering our need for God.
I didn’t grow up observing Ash Wednesday. In fact, I never even heard much about it. But as I’ve grown older in my faith, I’ve come to deeply appreciate what this season represents ,especially the practice of lament.
One of my new favorite resources this past year has been The Worship Initiative. A friend shared it with me, and recently they’ve been doing a series on lament. In one episode,Mark Vroegop (author of Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy) shared a powerful definition:
“Lament is a prayer in pain that leads to trust.”
Pause on that for a moment.
A prayer.
In pain.
That leads to trust.
Not a denial of pain.
Not pretending everything is fine.
Not rushing to a quick spiritual answer.
Lament gives us language for the hard things ,the unanswered questions, the disappointments, the grief, the confusion. It teaches us that we can bring all of it to God.
Psalm 13: A Pattern for Lament
In the Book of Psalms chapter 13, David begins with raw honesty:
“How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever?”
He asks questions.
He expresses sorrow.
He feels forgotten.
But the psalm doesn’t end there.
It ends in trust:
“But I trust in your unfailing love…”
That’s the movement of lament.
From pain → to prayer → to trust.
Not because circumstances changed instantly.
But because the heart turned toward God.
Why Lament Matters
Ash Wednesday reminds us that we are dust. That we are fragile. That we are not in control.
And lament gives us permission to bring that fragility to God.
We don’t have to only pray polished prayers.
We don’t have to only thank Him when things are good.
We can say, “How long?”
We can say, “I don’t understand.”
We can say, “This hurts.”
And still — we can trust.
Check out The Worship Initiative on the link below and go to Monday 16 to hear this beautiful psalm in song form. It’s one of my new favorites ✨
Snowshoeing at Crystal Mountain was quite the adventure for our family. We arrived early and found parking in the lot where the snowshoe routes start which was a huge blessing!
We geared up and then headed toward the Bullion Basin snowshoe route. We decided to do the Blue Bell Loop since it was our first time snowshoeing this area.
As we climbed higher, the views began peeking out everywhere. Openings in the trees revealed layers of snow-covered ridgelines, and on clear days you can catch breathtaking glimpses of Mount Rainier rising in the distance like we did …amazing!!Each clearing felt like a reward for the work it took to get there.
Bullion Basin isn’t a flat winter stroll. It’s a steady uphill climb that definitely gets your heart rate up. But that’s part of what made it feel like an accomplishment. The higher we climbed, the better the views became.
Near the top, parts of the route connected with ski terrain, so the trail became shared with skiers descending. Staying alert added a layer of awareness that kept us moving and paying attention.
And then came the descent.
It was steep — especially with packed snow underfoot. We took our time, used trekking poles, encouraged each other, and carefully made our way down. Snowshoeing downhill can sometimes feel trickier than the climb up, but slow and steady wins.I switched to my spikes and was much more confident going down.
By the time we reached the bottom, our legs were tired, our cheeks were cold, and we were ready for a warm cup of Cocoa and /or Coffee.
Crystal Mountain operates a reservation-based parking system during peak winter season (especially weekends and holidays).
Parking fees typically range from $10–$40 depending on demand and lot location.
Carpool vehicles (4+ people) may qualify for free parking in select lots.
Reservations should be made online in advance.
Arriving early is highly recommended.
What to Bring
Snowshoes
Trekking poles (very helpful for descent)
Waterproof layers
Warm gloves and hat
Snacks and water
Microspikes for icy conditions or for descending
Winter adventures like this stretch everyone — physically and mentally — but they also build confidence and shared memories that last long after the snow melts.
If you’re looking for a Washington winter adventure that feels both challenging and rewarding, Bullion Basin at Crystal Mountain is absolutely worth adding to your list.
Between Us: A 52-Week Devotional for Moms and Daughters is one of the devotionals my daughter and I are working through this year, and it has been such a meaningful addition to our homeschool rhythm.
What I love most about this devotional is how interactive it is. Each week includes a short devotional followed by intentional conversation prompts. There are moments where my daughter asks me a question and I respond while she records my answer, and then the roles reverse—I get to ask her a question and hear her heart. Those simple exchanges have opened the door to deeper conversations and sweet connection that I didn’t even realize we were missing.
This devotional has been a gentle, faith-filled way to slow down, reflect, and grow together. It’s not overwhelming or time-consuming, which makes it easy to weave into our homeschool days, and it encourages both spiritual growth and meaningful communication.
Have you ever done a devotional with your daughter? I’d love to hear what has worked well in your home. Share in the comments or send me a message—these conversations encourage so many other moms walking the same journey ❤️
If you haven’t done one or you’re looking for a devotional that strengthens faith while also nurturing your relationship with your daughter, Between Us is one I highly recommend.
Deuteronomy 6:6–7 reminds us:
“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” Deuteronomy 6:6-7 NIV
We had a short window to visit Waco and an opportunity to visit Magnolia, and I’m so thankful we made it work! I hadn’t been to Waco for over 20 years, and setting my feet back on Texas soil reminded me that I’m every bit Texas as the day I left , even with my Washington roots now. It’s funny how travel can make you reflect on where you come from and where you are now⭐️
So much history ⭐️ Travel + Field Trip
This city holds a rich history and it’s so deep in my roots that all of it came flooding back as soon as we landed in Dallas. So many memories of growing up here , and so many new adventures waiting to be discovered with Magnolia being at the top of our list .
Magnolia was absolutely delightful! We tried to take it all in and enjoy every part of it—soaking in all the decor, shopping, treats, and the many Insta-worthy spots. Walking around, it felt like stepping into a modern version of history, where every detail—from the buildings to the vintage-inspired decor—tells a story.
Magnolia Market The Holiday Shop Homebody
One of our first stops was the church right in the middle of it all. It was beautiful, steeped in history, and reminded me of how faith has long been a cornerstone of communities here and in my own life . Standing in that space, I couldn’t help but pause and reflect on the generations who had gathered there before us .
A beautifully restored Chapel ❤️So beautiful at night ⭐️
The shops were all decorated for the holidays and so welcoming. I loved that they offered a ship-to-home option, so I could shop without worrying about packing everything into my luggage—a little luxury that made travel feel so smooth.
The bakery was a sweet little highlight! My little one picked out a gingerbread cupcake, and just the smell of the fresh baked goods was enough to make us pause in delight. Moments like these remind me that travel isn’t just about the sights—it’s about the wonderful smells of fresh baked goods, brewing coffee and so many other little joys along the way.
I was most excited to try Magnolia Press. I ordered an iced Americano, and it hit the spot. If you’re planning on shopping as well, be sure to look for deals in the stores—they had a free drink with the purchase of a mug, during the time we visited.
So many Insta-worthy Stops
One of the unique collaborations I discovered was the Silos Watercolor book by Emily Lex . I loved it! My littles love her watercolor books ❤️ And with her being from Washington, it made me reflect on my own journey—how life and travel can connect distant places and memories, tying together past, present, and faith in unexpected ways.
Love these watercolor workbooks! Perfect for Homeschool Art Classes
Washington is my home now—and for as long as God keeps me there—but Waco will always be part of my story. Years ago, when I packed up my life and moved west, I had no idea how it would all unfold. Looking back now, I can see Gods hand in every step, every transition, and every place that shaped me along the way. I’m deeply thankful for the way God continues to orchestrate the details, faithfully writing a story far greater than I could have planned myself ❤️
If you’ve ever returned to a place that shaped you, I’d love to hear your story. What city, season, or moment did God use to grow you—even if you didn’t understand it at the time? Share in the comments or save this post as a reminder that He’s still writing your story ❤️
“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.” Psalms 143:8 NIV
“Real courage is when you know you’re licked before you begin, but you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what.” — Harper Lee, To Kill a Mockingbird
How fitting as we step into month two of twelve.
It’s easy—almost exciting—to write goals down on paper at the start of a new year. Fresh pages. Big intentions. Hope feels abundant. But I recently heard something that stopped me in my tracks: by day nine of the new year, most people have already given up on their goals. Day nine. That’s barely enough time to break in a new planner.
There’s even a name for it. The second Friday of January is known as Quitter’s Day. Anyone else not know about this?
Only about 8–9% of people actually stick with their goals all year. That’s less than one out of ten!
Wow! That sounds exactly like the kind of courage Atticus Finch was talking about.
Real courage isn’t loud or flashy. It’s not the perfectly executed plan or the viral success story. It’s choosing to keep going when motivation fades, when progress feels slow, and when you already know this won’t be easy.It’s continuing—not because you’re confident—but because you’re committed.
You don’t have to be in the top 1%. You just have to begin… and see it through. Real courage isn’t rooted in confidence—it’s rooted in obedience. Scripture reminds us that perseverance is formed through endurance, not ease. We don’t keep going because we’re certain of the outcome, but because we trust the One who called us to begin.Say that last sentence again ,write it down and remember it❤️
Faithful steps—especially the unseen ones—matter. God honors consistency more than perfection, and He meets us in the quiet decision to stay the course, one ordinary day at a time.
As we step into month 2 of 12, I created a simple Courage Check-In Reflection Sheet to help you pause, reset, and gently refocus—without guilt or pressure.
It’s not about doing more.
It’s about staying the course in what truly matters.
