Praises of a Wife and Mommy

Another wedding… and honestly, it felt a little strange even thinking about it. You all know my injury happened at a wedding, so just the thought of going to one again stirred a few emotions. Thankfully, there was no wedding dance this time, which made it easier on the nerves and the ankle. But let’s rewind a bit. The night before the wedding, I was at a CD release party where there was dancing. And I made up my mind that I would not let fear win. I wasn’t going to let that moment from my injury define me. So yes, I danced, carefully, joyfully, and still with my crutches nearby. Then came the wedding morning. And oh boy… not the kind of battle I expected. It was cold outside, and I couldn’t find anything that felt right to wear. The beautiful dark green dress that looked perfect in my head? It felt like it was suffocating me. Dress pants? Nope, not with this boot. So there I was, standing in front of the mirror, wearing blue jeans and a sweater, feeling completely self-conscious. And ...

This weekend was another milestone moment for my daughter’s senior year. She auditioned for All-State Choir! It’s a big deal because not many high school students make it in, and the process is intense. On Saturday, she and her group sang beautifully together, and then came the exciting (and nerve-wracking) moment: she got a callback to sing individually. And guess what? She got in!  When she told me, my heart just about burst with pride. I’ve watched her pour her heart into music, balancing practices, academics, and cross country, and to see her hard work and determination recognized like this is such a gift. But what really made me pause was a phone call I received from one of her friends that day. She said, “Your daughter is so calm. She doesn’t seem nervous at all. She’s just sitting and waiting for her call back with her binder on her lap. No one else is like that.” And I smiled because I knew exactly why. My daughter carries the peace of Jesus. She knows Jehovah Shalom, the L...

Hebrews 10:36 has been my anchor lately. I’ve written it on photos of my scar and legs, because I need the constant reminder: “Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.” — Hebrews 10:36 (NLT) Those two words, patient endurance, carry so much weight. They sound so simple until you’re in the middle of the process. Healing has a way of showing us what those words really mean. It’s the patient part that stretches me, waiting for progress, waiting for strength, waiting for normal. And it’s the endurance part that builds me, pushing through the pain, the swelling, the setbacks, and still choosing to believe that better days are coming. This season has reminded me that both can exist together. I can be grateful and frustrated. Strong and sore. Hopeful and tired. Healing is not linear, but it is purposeful. God is using every ache and every delay to shape me into someone stronger, not just physically bu...

Taking a little break from my own healing journey today to simply admire my two kiddos.  Selah sent me a side-by-side picture, one from this week and one from last year and I can hardly believe the difference. In just one year, so much has changed! Selah’s hair might be a little wild from running her big race on a windy day, but that’s part of her beautiful spirit — determined, joyful, and strong. And Titus? Gone is that little boy face… he’s truly stepping into manhood. My heart just swells when I see how they’re both growing, not just physically, but in faith and character. Their names carry such meaning:  Selah — “to pause and reflect.” She reminds me to slow down and notice God in every moment.  Titus — “defender.” He carries a strength and compassion that shows what it means to protect, to serve, and to love. Watching them grow is a reminder that these two are not just mine, they belong to the Lord, and He has incredible plans for their lives. “The Lord will fulfill ...

Well, Monday brought another doctor appointment. He looked at my scar and seemed pleased. He asked about weight-bearing and again seemed pleased. Then he said the words I knew were coming but still made my stomach drop a little: “It’s time to start physical therapy.” Three times a week for six weeks. Whew. That’s a whole lot! I know it’s necessary, and I know it’ll help me get stronger, but I also know it’s going to hurt. How does one prepare for that kind of “good pain”? How do I wrap my brain around the fact that something that’s going to be uncomfortable is actually exactly what I need?  (When I got to the PT place to make appointments they actually only scheduled me two times a week and said the PT would discuss if we needed a 3 one.) So, I’ve asked for prayers — and I treasure every single one.  I’ve noticed I’m starting to bear more than 50% of my weight now, which feels amazing. At school last week, I found myself using my crutches more and scooting less. Every small v...

Oh boy, what a day! This was the last time as a high school cross country runner that I’ll see my girl race on that tough, hilly course. What a mix of emotions — joy, pride, nostalgia, and awe. Earlier this season, I was still being wheeled around in a wheelchair. But this time, victory! I was able to use my knee scooter and make it from spot to spot, cheering Selah and her teammates on. That freedom felt amazing, another reminder of how far God has brought me in my healing. And the victories didn’t stop there. Selah and her team crushed the competition and are heading to State next week! 🙌 Selah met her individual goal of qualifying, and I could see her determination in every stride. She’s focused, grounded, and surrounded by such an incredible group of teammates. As they prepare for this next big race, my heart is full of prayer: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not...