Ways I Lower My Stress
I used to think stress was unavoidable.
Part of adulthood.
Part of motherhood.
Part of widowhood.
Part of rebuilding.
Life felt heavy, so of course I felt stressed.
But over time, God helped me see something I hadn’t noticed before.
Some stress was inevitable.
But much of it was self-imposed.
Not intentionally. Not foolishly. Just habitually.
I had been living as though everything was urgent. Everything mattered equally. Everything required my immediate attention.
And that way of living was exhausting.
Slowly, I began building simple rhythms that lowered the noise — not by controlling life, but by creating margin.
Read more...Ways I Steady My Mornings
There was a time when my mornings began in urgency.
My eyes would open and my mind would immediately start racing — responsibilities, worries, decisions, what-ifs. It felt like I was already behind before my feet even hit the floor.
But somewhere along the way, I realized I didn’t want to live like that anymore.
Now I try to begin my mornings with intention.
Not perfectly.
Not rigidly.
But gently.
I don’t rush into my day anymore. I steady myself first.
Read more...This post begins a new series I’m calling Simple Rhythms — small, sustainable habits that have helped me move from survival mode into steadier, more peaceful living. None of them are dramatic. But together, they’ve changed the way I experience my days.
Things That Help Me Sleep Better
Sleep hasn’t always come easily for me.
There were seasons after Jon passed when I would fall asleep quickly, only to wake at midnight with my mind racing. The house would be quiet, but my thoughts were loud. Fear often feels louder at night.
Over time — slowly and imperfectly — I’ve learned that good sleep doesn’t start at bedtime. It starts much earlier in the day.
Here are a few simple rhythms that have helped me sleep more deeply.
Read more...Stepping Into 50 with Joy and Trust
As 2025 came to a close, you might have felt a lot of different things.
Maybe it was incredibly hard year, and you’re more than ready to leave it behind. Maybe it stretched you in ways you didn’t expect, or required more strength than you felt you had. Or maybe it was a good year — one that brought healing, growth, or renewed hope — and you’re curious about what 2026 might hold.
Wherever you find yourself, before rushing into the new year, I want to invite you to pause.
Not to dwell on the past.
Not to replay every mistake or painful moment.
But to reflect.
Not to replay every mistake or painful moment.
But to reflect.
What did 2025 teach you?
What did it reveal about your heart, your needs, your limits?
What do you want to carry with you into 2026 — and what might you gently lay down?
What did it reveal about your heart, your needs, your limits?
What do you want to carry with you into 2026 — and what might you gently lay down?
A Simple, Heartfelt Holiday Gift Guide (With Easy DIYs You’ll Actually Enjoy Making!)
If you’re hoping to give gifts this year that feel thoughtful, meaningful, and a little more personal, this guide is for you. Whether you love getting crafty or you simply want ideas that spark joy and support wellness, I’ve gathered a few of my favorite DIY projects along with some gifts you can purchase and wrap in minutes. These are simple, doable, and perfect for busy moms, friends, teachers, neighbors – anyone who could use a little extra encouragement this season.
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