A Recipe for Thankfulness

I debated on whether to write a Thanksgiving post, but I felt it necessary. Too often, this time of year is overshadowed by the hustle and bustle of other things happening. Yet, we are reminded in the Bible to be grateful every day for everything. "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you" (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

As I reflect on my journey, I realize just how much I have to be thankful for. The list of blessings in my life feels endless.

This past year alone, I’ve expanded my horizons in several ways. 

One major area of growth for me has been my independence, particularly through driving. I’ve mentioned this many times before, but every mile driven represents freedom and confidence. It’s a blessing I thank God for daily.

Additionally, I’ve been broadening my intellectual horizons. I’m learning new skills that I hope to utilize in the future as I continue on this journey of discovery and growth. I am reminded of Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." These words resonate deeply as I embrace these new challenges. While I’m grateful for the new skills and independence I’ve gained, I also treasure the familiar traditions that bring comfort and joy—especially those rooted in the kitchen.

Thanksgiving Traditions in the Kitchen

One of my favorite ways to celebrate Thanksgiving is spending time in the kitchen. Every year, I make my cranberry salad and sweet potato soufflé—two dishes that have become family traditions. Even though I can no longer eat by mouth, I take great joy in preparing these recipes for others. The cranberry salad is a simple yet delightful dish that even those who don’t typically enjoy cranberries seem to love. The sweet potato soufflé, topped with a delicious pecan crust, is another favorite.

When it comes to cooking, I believe in using fresh ingredients whenever possible. For the sweet potato soufflé, I always use real sweet potatoes—not canned yams—because fresh makes all the difference.

Sharing Recipes of Gratitude

Cranberry-Pineapple Salad

This super simple recipe is sure to win over even the cranberry skeptics.

1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
2 packages (3 oz each) raspberry-flavored Jell-O
1 can (16 oz) whole-berry2f2f2 cranberry sauce
2/3 cup walnuts, (or pecans) chopped
1 red apple, peeled and chopped

Instructions:

Drain the pineapple, reserving the juice. Add enough water to the reserved juice to measure 2 1/2 cups of liquid.

Pour the liquid into a saucepan and bring it to a boil.

In a large bowl, add the dry gelatin mixes. Stir in the hot liquid for 2 minutes, or until the Jell-O powder is completely dissolved.

Stir in the pineapple, cranberry sauce, nuts, and apple. Mix thoroughly.

Pour into two loaf pans.

Refrigerate until set. Enjoy and/or give to share!

 (Adapted from Kraft Foods.)

Cooking isn’t just about nourishment—it’s about joy, creativity, and sharing love with others. I enjoy taking recipes that might seem simple and transforming them into something special, like this next dish.

Sweet Potato Souffle with Pecan Crust

A holiday classic topped with a flavorful crunch.

Soufflé Ingredients:

3 cups sweet potatoes, (approx. 3 medium-sized; peeled & cubed, boiled, drained, and mashed)
1 cup sugar
3 eggs
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp orange extract

Topping Ingredients:

1/2 cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup self-rising flour
1 cup pecans, chopped

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

In a large bowl, mix the soufflé ingredients until well combined.

Grease a 2-quart baking dish with butter, and pour in the soufflé mixture.

In a separate bowl, combine the topping ingredients. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the soufflé.

Bake for 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the soufflé is set.

 (Recipe by Felicia.)

A Lesson in Gratitude

I often remind the kids in my Sunday School class that we are all equal in the sight of God. There’s no “big I” or “little you.” God is not a respecter of persons, and He loves each of us equally. "For there is no respect of persons with God" (Romans 2:11).

The preacher is not more important than me, and God loves me no less than He loved Moses—after all, He personally buried Moses (Deuteronomy 34:5-6). If God loves me that much, then He loves you just as much, too.

I share this because I feel so blessed—not just lucky, but truly blessed. And if God doesn’t love me more than He loves you, then you can feel that same gratitude and recognize the blessings in your life. Sometimes, you just have to take a moment to sit and reflect.

It’s easy to focus on the negative because the devil allows those things to pop out everywhere, just like how negative news seems to spread faster by word of mouth. Think about it—people often remember one bad thing about a company or a person rather than the ten good things they’ve heard. But when we actively choose to reflect on the positive and God’s goodness, it shifts our perspective. As Psalm 103:2 says, "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits."

Sharing Joy Through the Flavors of Life

Life has a way of presenting challenges, but there’s something special about sharing the little victories—like the comfort of a good recipe. Cooking and baking have always been a joy for me, even after my accident in 2009. In fact, my love for it deepened during my recovery. Whether it was finding solace in flipping through cookbooks or experimenting in the kitchen during therapy sessions, food has remained a source of creative expression and connection.

One of my proudest achievements was publishing a cookbook filled with recipes I personally tested and photographed. Each dish tells a story, and many bring back warm memories of family, friends, and the spirit of perseverance.

Cooking as Therapy

While recovering from my accident, cooking became more than just a task—it became therapy. It allowed me to focus on small steps, much like my physical recovery. Measuring ingredients, stirring batter, or rolling out dough gave me a sense of accomplishment, even on the most challenging days. One of my earliest outings after the accident was to a bookstore, where I picked up a cookbook, sparking hope that I could regain some independence and joy in the kitchen.

It’s amazing how cooking connects people, too. My co-workers even created a dessert cookbook to raise funds for my medical expenses. That kind gesture inspired me to pay it forward by creating a cookbook of my own, filled with recipes I love, each with its own story.

Finding Joy in the Good

It’s easy to let the negative overshadow the good. Whether it’s a recipe that didn’t turn out or something more profound, the enemy loves to amplify the bad. But I believe there’s always more good to celebrate—it just takes intentionality to seek it out.

Negativity spreads quickly. My journey—filled with ups and downs—reminds me of this. I’ve learned to focus on the blessings, no matter how small, and share those with others.

The Heart Behind the Cooking

I hope these recipes inspire you as much as they’ve blessed me. They’re not just about the flavors—they’re about the heart behind the cooking. Whether it’s a celebration or just a quiet moment in your day, I pray they bring a bit of joy and connection into your life.

Thanksgiving is a reminder to slow down, reflect, and praise God for His blessings. Whether in my journey toward independence, learning new skills, or simply sharing cherished family recipes, I see God’s hand at work. Let us carry gratitude in our hearts not just on this holiday but every day. As Psalm 107:1 says, "O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever."

I hope these reflections and recipes inspire you to embrace gratitude and enjoy the simple joys of this season.

What are your favorite recipes or traditions that remind you of joy and perseverance? I’d love to hear your stories. Share them in the comments! Let’s keep encouraging one another!

Be encouraged. 🧡

Hospital Life

In the aftermath of my motorcycle accident in 2009, life in the hospital was filled with challenges that shaped my path to recovery. Immediately after the wreck, I was unable to speak, breathe on my own, or move parts of my body. I even remember thinking my hips and shoulders were broken, they were so painfully bruised. It was a time of immense struggle, yet, even through these difficult moments, I could see God's hand at work in ways I never imagined.

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

Ventilator Dependency and the Alphabet Board

After the wreck, I was on a ventilator to assist my lungs in breathing. The ventilator was physically inserted into my neck through a tracheotomy (trach), and the machine followed me wherever I went. When I was well enough to go to the therapy gym or move around the hospital in my wheelchair, a mobile unit would accompany me to continue assisting my breathing.

With the trach in place, I could not speak. To communicate, I had to use an alphabet board—a grid with the letters A to Z in separate cells. I would point to letters to spell out words. This might sound simple, but at the time, it was a painstaking task. My muscle control was non-existent, so pointing to a single letter could take several tries. I also had no movement in my right arm, so the task was left to my one usable appendage.

I recall trying to spell out the word "is" on the alphabet board. After struggling for what felt like forever, I became so frustrated that I threw my hands up in defeat. My mom and stepdad gently encouraged me, "Please don't give up; we want to know what you're saying."

“I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.” (Psalm 121:1-2)

2009, tape on my glasses and NO trach

Vision Recovery

After my motorcycle wreck, my vision was greatly affected. Each eye pointed in a different direction, leaving me unable to see clearly. What made this even more challenging was that I couldn't verbally communicate what I was experiencing. I remember every morning, trying to memorize what the nurse told me—the day, the date, and the name of my nurse—because I couldn't physically read the board from my bed. I was afraid that if I gave them incorrect information, they might think I was losing my mind, and that was the last thing I wanted.

To begin correcting my vision, the medical team started by using tape on the lens of my glasses. Depending on the progress of my eye muscles, they would place the tape on either the left or right side of the lens, and sometimes it would cover part or all of the lens. This process helped my eyes gradually return to their normal position, but I had to wear the tape for several years.

Afterward, I transitioned to using a stick-on prism, which had lines that went directly on my glasses lens to correct my double vision. This helped bring my vision back into a single view. Now, I'm blessed to have that prism ground directly into my glasses lens, so it looks like regular clear glass—no more stick-on prisms with visible lines. The journey with my vision was long, but it's another testimony to the slow and steady process of healing.

Even today I try to do five minutes of exercises where you follow your finger (pursuit eye exercises). These help improve eye coordination and the ability to smoothly track objects, as my eyes have a nystagmus (tendency to jump) due to head trauma. 

2009, strapped in a walker

Physical Therapy: Learning to Stand Again

Physical therapy was one of the most intense parts of my recovery. Since I had lost weight and all of my muscle function, I had to relearn how to use every part of my body. This was frustrating because mentally I knew what I wanted to do, but making my body do it wasn't so simple. Much of the therapy was focused on helping me stand and move again.

One of the early exercises involved using a tilt table, which gradually helped me adjust to standing upright. At first, every time they raised the table, my blood pressure would bottom out, and I felt like I was going to pass out. It took days to reach a full 90-degree vertical position. Each step was a triumph, though it required immense patience. Achieving this milestone was huge!

I’m reminded of my initial visit to outpatient therapy in NC, the therapist wanted to see my condition, and asked me to stand up. I remember thinking, “okay, I hope she’s prepared to catch me before I contact the floor.” (She did)!

“He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.” (Isaiah 40:29)

Occupational Therapy: Relearning Basic Tasks

In occupational therapy, the focus was on fine motor skills, like arm movement, finger movement, and learning to grasp objects. We worked on daily tasks such as zipping up clothes, buttoning a shirt, and other similar activities. These tasks were especially challenging because I had to do everything one-handed with my left hand—the hand that had been my least dominant.

The therapists tried to make therapy as engaging as possible. For example, one time in occupational therapy, we assembled banana pudding and made ham and cheese croissants, which was both therapeutic and enjoyable. I also participated in therapeutic recreation activities like painting flower pots, which allowed me to create gifts for my family.

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13)

2009, working my right arm; "R2-D2," the ventilator 

Speech Therapy: Finding My Voice Again

Speech therapy was about gaining muscle control of my mouth, throat, and tongue. Even though I couldn’t speak due to my trach, my therapist would practice mouth movements with me—working on saying words whether I could produce sound or not. It was frustrating, but every little bit of progress was significant. Sometimes, the therapist would temporarily "let down" my trach, allowing me to try to speak faintly (a barely audible whisper), though the effort was exhausting.

“O Lord my God, I cried unto thee, and thou hast healed me.” (Psalm 30:2)

The Struggle to Breathe Without a Ventilator

One of the most difficult and pivotal moments came when I had to learn how to breathe on my own again. My respiratory therapist often referred to my ventilator as "R2-D2" and was eager for the day I could get rid of it. However, the head doctor didn’t believe I would be able to do without the vent.
When he went on vacation, his assistant took over and decided to pull the ventilator off me during the day to force me to breathe on my own. The basic message was that I would either learn to breathe or I wouldn’t make it. I hadn’t breathed on my own in almost three months, so it was a terrifying experience.

My mom stayed by my side the entire time, coaching me through each breath. “Breathe in, breathe out. Breathe in, breathe out.” I spent the days trying to breathe without the vent, and at night, they would hook me back up to it. After several days, I spent a night in ICU to be monitored without the ventilator. By the time the doctor returned, I no longer needed it. VICTORY!

“The Spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life.” (Job 33:4)

2010, right arm movement exercises

Regaining Movement in My Right Arm

While I was still in Georgia, I met with specialists about my right arm, which had not moved at all since the accident. They determined that I would likely need a nerve graft to restore movement. Upon returning to North Carolina, I prepared to undergo the procedure. However, while attending outpatient therapy, my occupational therapist noticed a flicker of movement in my bicep. From that small flicker, the arm slowly began working again—no surgery needed.

The progress was slow, but it was there. My right arm, though still weaker and less coordinated than my left, gradually became more functional. It was an incredible reminder of God’s faithfulness and the power of perseverance.

“But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)

The New Me: A Journey of Relearning

The truth is, after my accident, I had to relearn how to do almost everything. Walking, breathing, talking, writing—it was all a process of starting from scratch. Even now, my handwriting is nothing like it was before the accident. It’s much more laborious, and the muscles required for writing get tired quickly. Yet, with time and practice, my writing has improved, even if it will never be the same.

I've been told that this is the "new me." And while I’ve had to accept that, I can also see how God has carried me through this journey. Through every challenge, every small victory, He has been there, providing strength I didn’t know I had. My journey is a testament to His faithfulness, and I am grateful for every step forward.

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

Final Thoughts

Recovery is a long and winding road, but with God’s grace, I’ve made it through each day. Every challenge has taught me perseverance, and every triumph, no matter how small, has been a gift. I hope that sharing my story encourages others who are facing their own battles to keep moving forward, trusting that God is with them every step of the way.

“The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.” (Psalm 28:7)

“Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” Jeremiah 32:27 is a powerful reminder of God’s unlimited power and ability to work in any situation, no matter how impossible it may seem. So, the question remains, is there?

Be encouraged. 🧡

Turning the Page - reflections

 As I’ve recently celebrated another birthday, I find myself reflecting not only on the year behind me but also on the journey of life itself. Every birthday is a reminder that, from the moment we’re born, we all begin our march toward life’s end. It may sound a bit grim, but I believe this truth brings an urgency and preciousness to each moment we’re given. Death is no respecter of persons - young and old experience it. Life itself is a gift from God, and this day reminds me to cherish that gift.

“So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12)

An Alternative to Eating Cake

Acknowledging Life’s Dual Nature: Growth and Mortality

This birthday marks a milestone—a chance to celebrate being alive and to honor the journey. I remind myself, and others, that as we age each year, we’re also drawing closer to the day when we’ll meet our Creator. Yet, each year is an opportunity to add purpose to this life, to impact others, and to make our lives and communities better. Time, it seems, moves both quickly and slowly. Some days stretch out, testing my patience and faith, while other days pass like the blink of an eye.

 “Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” (James 4:14)

Rediscovering and Reclaiming Independence

This past year, I’ve found myself rediscovering what it means to move freely, in more ways than one. After years of coordinating pickups and syncing my schedule with others, it’s been surreal to suddenly not have to ask or wait. I vividly remember one moment in the kitchen when my mom casually asked if I wanted to go somewhere. When I mentioned my plans, she just looked at me with a smile and said, “You don’t have to ask permission. How old are you? You’re a grown woman.”

In that moment, it really struck me—I could go wherever I wanted, whenever I wanted, just like anyone else. For the first time in a long time, I felt normal. Not having to rely on others, not needing to wait or plan…this new freedom reminded me that I could live a bit more on my terms, reclaiming pieces of myself and my independence, journey by journey.

Reflecting on the past year, I’m thankful for the obstacles I’ve overcome—especially my progress in driving. For me, driving has been more than just getting from one place to another. After fourteen years without it, reclaiming this ability has felt like reclaiming my independence. This is a privilege I don’t take for granted. I’ve been able to go to the local gym, visit nearby relatives, even drive myself to my own doctor’s appointments!

Who Needs Edible Cake?

When I first began driving again, I only felt comfortable on secondary roads during the day. My trips were short, maybe twenty or thirty minutes. Then I began daytime interstate driving, increasing the distance I travel, and the time behind the wheel for a single trip. Recently, I’ve begun to tackle nighttime interstate driving. This is a fear I plan to fully conquer. I pay close attention to staying in the right lane, observing the speed limit, and watching the road ahead. I try to avoid looking directly at headlights or taillights, as they might impair my vision. With each journey, I gain a little more confidence than before. I pray many times, as I travel, for God to protect me and help me navigate safely to my destination, and He has not failed to help me do the best I can. He is the friend who is always in the car with me.

Reflecting on this progress reminds me of a memory shared by a friend who knew me before my accident. Upon hearing that I had regained my license, he referenced a time I drove a 1965 Mustang Fastback in front of a group of people. He described that moment in a way that made me feel adequately equipped, saying, in essence, that it was clear I had been through so much, and if anyone deserved their license back, it was me. His words resonated deeply, lifting me during times when I struggled with feelings of inadequacy. I had often questioned if I was capable of driving again, wondering if I truly belonged on the road. At one point, I even thought the driver’s license examiner gave me my license out of pity. But as I reflected on that, I realized she would not have issued it to me if I were a danger to myself or others. That was her job—to give me my license because I had earned it.

“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” (Isaiah 41:10)

Finding Encouragement and Remembering the Past

Every action we take contributes to the legacy we’ll leave behind. Whether or not we realize it, there are people watching us—our words, our actions, our choices. As I reflect on the past year, I recognize that even the smallest of actions contribute to the person I’m becoming and the impact I have on others. I want to live with intention, making each day count and leaving behind a legacy that honors God and brings light to others.

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)

Embracing the Privilege of Love

I’m reminded that love is one of life’s greatest privileges, a gift we should never take for granted. Not everyone has the opportunity to both give and receive love, and I consider it a blessing to experience it in my life. Love is a bond that strengthens us, motivates us, and keeps us moving forward. I want to embrace this privilege fully, cherishing the relationships I have and striving to love others the way God loves us.

“Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.” (1 John 4:7)

Faith in God’s Purpose and Plan

Reflecting on another year gone by, I realize that God has a unique path for each of us. His purpose is not always what we envision, but His plan is perfect, even when it’s beyond our understanding. I often refer to Jeremiah 29:11, which has been a comforting reminder in my life: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” This verse was given to me during my hospital stay on a little cross in my room. I still have the cross, and it serves as a daily reminder of the hope I have for my future and the expected outcome God has for me.

The verses that follow—Jeremiah 29:12-13—also resonate deeply with me: “Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.” These verses encourage me to continually seek God and trust that He is listening, guiding me every step of the way. I’ve had to let go of certain dreams, but I’ve gained others, each a blessing in its own way. I trust that my life is unfolding according to His design, and I know that whatever challenges come, He is with me. I believe that my life is not only a journey but a testimony of God’s faithfulness.

God has faithfully allowed me to encounter people and things at the precise time I needed to. The direction provided has been exactly what was needed because God is always right on time.

Reflecting on Eternity

Birthdays remind me not only of the years I’ve lived but of the eternity that awaits. Life on earth is temporary, a stepping stone toward something greater. As I celebrate another year, I’m grateful for each moment but also mindful of the hope of heaven. I look forward to the day when all our struggles will cease, and we’ll be with God forever. Until then, I strive to live in a way that brings glory to Him, knowing that my days are in His hands.

“For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come.” (Hebrews 13:14)

Celebrating the Journey, Not Just the Years

Another year has passed, a milestone marked by yet another birthday. While it’s a moment to celebrate being alive, it’s also a reminder that, as we age each second, we are ultimately moving toward the end of our earthly journey. As I reflect, however, I find comfort in this thought: "Life is not measured in years, but by the deeds of man." This truth reminds me that the real value of life is not in the years I’ve counted, but in the steps I’ve taken, the challenges I’ve faced, and the victories I’ve celebrated along the way.

While this year may not have brought all the accomplishments I once dreamed of, it’s been rich with meaningful moments. Every drive I take, every visit to the gym, every moment I’ve spent working to rebuild and redefine my independence is part of a story that goes beyond any measure of time. These are the deeds that shape my journey and the legacy I leave behind.

How do you measure your milestones?                     Listen to these lyrics: Praise and With Lifted Hands

Be encouraged. 🧡

What Next - life unknowns

After nearly a decade of teaching, the decision to close my homeschool was not an easy one. Reflecting on that season of my life, I see God’s hand guiding me through each step. From completing my degree against all odds to running a homeschool from my mom’s basement, each phase seemed arranged to meet my needs and prepare me for what was to come. Even in the unknowns I face now, I trust He is still leading me forward.

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.” Psalm 37:23

A Decade of Purposeful Teaching

In 2010, after my recovery journey brought me home from Georgia, I returned to college to finish my degree, through East Carolina's online degree completion program that I had begun before the wreck. Before my accident, I had only completed about half of the requirements, so with much still left, the challenge felt overwhelming. Yet God provided a way. Through vocational rehabilitation, my remaining tuition costs were covered, and I only had to pay for textbooks. This unexpected blessing allowed me to focus on completing my degree and preparing for the future. I believe this was part of God’s plan, knowing that the skills I would acquire and the income supplement would be helpful later on. I completed student teaching at my local elementary school, which opened the door to operating my own homeschool program for ten years.

Teaching from home was more than just a job—it was a perfect fit for my unique circumstances at the time. Being close to home meant I didn’t have to rely on transportation, a major hurdle back then, and I could work within my physical limitations. It was also a season that allowed me to continue recovering, building both my teaching skills and physical strength in a familiar environment. It became a time to grow and move forward with God’s provision, right where I was.

Reflections on Teaching: Memorable Classroom Moments

Pottery Creating Field Trip

Some of my favorite teaching memories come from the unique ways we celebrated learning together. Each morning, we’d open our school day with prayer, taking prayer requests and sharing a brief devotional to start us off on the right foot. One devotional about Jesus as the Good Shepherd had a lasting impact. Later that day, one of my students shared this story with her mom, who was touched. She realized that while her daughter might not experience everything that traditional schooling offered, she was gaining something far more meaningful—faith and spiritual growth.

Spirit Week's "Asylum Warden" and Her Gang

Our Spirit Weeks were also a highlight. Each day had a theme, and my students and I would dress accordingly, capturing the fun with a group photo. Every spring, we commemorated the year with a Field Day and a day to tie-dye T-shirts. The students loved these traditions, and so did I. Several field trips throughout the year took us to places like apple orchards and local attractions, where we made memories that we’d cherish for years to come.

Field Day Shenanigans 

God’s Leading to Close This Chapter

In March 2024, I sent a letter to each of my nine students, letting them know I planned to teach one more year before closing the school. Little did I know, God had other plans. During spring break, a family with three of my students requested a meeting. I had been praying for direction, asking for confirmation from the Lord, and on that Monday, I received an answer. The family shared that, with one of their children starting kindergarten in the fall, they had decided to teach their children at home as well. I completely understood this; it made sense to avoid any confusion for their kindergartener adjusting to formal schooling.

“And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.” Isaiah 30:21

For me, this family’s decision felt like the confirmation I needed from God to end my teaching in May 2024 rather than May 2025. This would leave me with only two in-person students, both with a six-year age gap and of opposite genders—a combination that didn’t feel appropriate or beneficial for anyone. With a sense of peace, I notified the rest of my families that the school would be closing sooner than planned. Although this decision was difficult after ten years, I trusted that God was guiding me forward.

Embracing the Unknown with Faith

Letting go of teaching was a bittersweet choice. I loved the daily joys of teaching—watching my students grow, hearing their questions, and sharing in their accomplishments. Yet, with my newfound freedom of obtaining a driver’s license, I felt it was time to step beyond the basement and out into the world. This freedom symbolized a new season of growth and independence. I knew God was calling me to move forward, to step out in faith, and to explore new opportunities.

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” Jeremiah 29:11

Now, as I close this chapter, I don’t yet have a clear plan. Every day, I feel a bit more of the uncertainty that comes with waiting on God’s next step. To ease that sense of anxiousness, I am focusing on learning new skills, particularly in technology, which I believe could be useful as I look toward the future. I am not idle, and I am certainly not giving up. Instead, I am using this time to refine my skills, work on my blog, and offer motivational talks. In these talks, I share my testimony of God’s grace and faithfulness throughout all the trials I have endured. The thing about a personal testimony—it’s just that. No one can refute it and convince you otherwise because it has been your experience.

“Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.” Psalm 27:14

Seeking Guidance Through Vocational Rehabilitation

Recently, I reached out to a vocational rehabilitation job counselor, hoping to explore options I may not have previously considered. This counselor is helping me evaluate possibilities for my next steps and what I might be able to pursue in this new season. I am praying that God will reveal His will for me through these new resources and opportunities.

I know I am not alone in feeling unsettled about an uncertain future, but I also know that God is with me. He has carried me through so much already, and I believe He will continue to guide me. Even when the way ahead seems unclear, I am reminded of His promise to provide and direct.

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

New Skills and Personal Growth

Since stepping away from teaching, I’ve been working on new skills that have opened up paths I hadn’t considered before. In many ways, it’s been like cultivating a garden, adding to my "box of goodies" with things like coding (HTML, etc.) and automation exploration. I’ve also been honing my writing, especially through this blog—a skill I hadn’t really used since college.

Sharing My Testimony at a Ladies' Bible Study

Public speaking has been another area of focus, with an emphasis on enunciation and projection, which has been a great challenge and growth experience. Each new skill is another tool that I can use to share my journey and connect with others, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to learn and grow.

Honest Frustrations in the Waiting Season

At times, I want to yell out in frustration that I need a plan—that I need to know what to do. I sometimes feel like I'm floundering, not advancing, not moving forward in any way. It’s as if I’m just drifting in some unknown space, uncertain of what comes next.

“Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.” Psalm 55:22

Maybe you feel the same way, like life is pushing you forward without a clear path. I just want to get these thoughts out of myself. Perhaps as I let them go, they’ll start to make sense, and something will come of them. I believe God hears every cry and knows every worry, and that one day, clarity will come.

I've questioned my decision, wondering if I made the right choice. I've questioned what I'm doing; at times, it feels like nothing. But if I believe there’s a purpose in everything and that there are no coincidences—something I hold dear—then I have to believe this is a time to shape myself and my skills for what lies ahead.

Lately, I've been realizing the importance of opening up, not only for my own healing but for those who might feel the same struggles in silence. Truthfully, seeing other couples or families sometimes brings a twinge of envy. I deeply loved being a wife, and there’s a sense of loss in that. But in those moments, I remind myself of God’s promises. He knows my heart and the future, even when it’s not visible to me. I keep coming back to the words in Joshua 1, where God calls us to be strong and courageous, not afraid or dismayed. I hold onto that truth when I pray, asking God to help me find contentment and satisfaction in what I have right now. Because we’re told to seek Him first, and He promises to provide for us.

It’s so easy to fall into the trap of comparison, yet we’re reminded in 1 Corinthians not to compare ourselves with others because it’s not wise. That’s a hard truth to grasp, but ultimately, it frees us to compare ourselves to Christ alone. He’s our true example, the One we should strive to mirror in words, actions, and love – not looking around at others but fixing our gaze on Him.

I once thought I had my life mapped out – a high school diploma, marriage, a home, a steady job. It all seemed secure, and then suddenly, it was gone. That left me questioning where to go from here. A dear friend helped me see this differently: to view this chapter as a precious chance for a do-over, something few people ever get. A blank canvas, a fresh start. Now, I’m slowly learning to see it as an opportunity to rewrite my story with faith and a heart open to wherever God leads me.

Stepping Forward in Faith

In this season of waiting, I am learning to embrace each small, faithful step. Each new skill I learn, each story I share, brings me closer to whatever God has planned. Although I sometimes feel anxious about the future, I take comfort in knowing that God has already mapped out the path ahead of me. Through this transition, I hope to encourage others to trust in God’s timing and to find peace, even in the midst of life’s unknowns.

“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31

Dear Lord, help me to want what You want for me, whatever that might be. You know my heart and my desires, but I trust that You know what’s best. Guide my steps, even when I feel uncertain, and fill me with the courage to follow wherever You lead. Thank You for Your grace You’ve shown me, and may my journey inspire others to lean into Your promises, finding peace in Your perfect plan. Amen.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. I am grateful for each of you, and I pray that by sharing my story, you may find encouragement in your own transitions. Remember, God’s plans are always for our good, even when we don’t fully understand them. Hold onto His promises, take small steps, and trust that He is guiding you every step of the way.

Share your heart with me.

Be encouraged. 🧡