Praises of a Wife and Mommy

I love the idea of simplifying my mornings, so when I tried the Hazelnut Protein Coffee from Naked Nutrition, I was excited about getting my protein and caffeine in one scoop. As someone who values clean ingredients and fueling my body well, this felt like a great option. First, the positives. I really appreciate Naked Nutrition’s commitment to simple, clean ingredients without a lot of unnecessary additives. The concept alone is a win, protein plus coffee saves time and makes busy mornings easier. Getting that extra protein boost alongside my caffeine is honestly my favorite part. Now for my honest experience. The first time I mixed it, I used water and just a spoon… and quickly realized that was not enough. It didn’t blend well and was a bit clumpy. I also tried adding it to already-made hot coffee, and that didn’t work great either — it turned chunky and didn’t dissolve smoothly.  I also realized I don't need more caffeine because this powder is comparable to a full cup of ...

 If you are looking for a NLT journaling Bible with wide margins, elegant design, and built-in study tools, the NLT Wide Margin Bible, Filament Enabled is a beautiful and meaningful option. Whether you want a Bible for note-taking, creative journaling, or as a Christian graduation gift, this one truly stands out. What’s Inside the NLT Wide Margin Bible (Filament Enabled) The NLT Wide Margin Bible, Filament Enabled is thoughtfully designed for readers who love to engage creatively with Scripture. This single-column Bible includes 2.25-inch lightly ruled margins on every page — making it ideal for: Bible journaling Writing prayers Note-taking during sermons Highlighting meaningful verses Recording personal reflections Creating a keepsake Bible Beautiful design details include: Access to the free Filament Bible App High-quality white Bible paper perfect for journaling Single-column, line-over-line typesetting Easy-to-read 8-point Lexicon font ...

Well, here is a quick picture and update as I haven't said much in a few weeks.   Healing takes time and I am learning to accept it!    

  One thing that has felt so amazing since returning to work from Christmas break is my coworkers. I didn’t fully realize how much support I would feel just by walking back into the building without my scooter.  So many people noticed right away. Almost every day someone stops me, claps, or cheers me on, telling me how good I am looking and how proud they are of the progress I’ve made. It honestly feels like I have my own cheering section in the halls. Those small moments make such a difference in my workday. Healing can feel slow and lonely at times, but being surrounded by people who notice, celebrate, and speak life into the progress changes everything. I truly feel seen, and that is such a gift in any workplace. “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11.... I know I have shared that verse a few times but it is so so important!  I am learning that encouragement is powerful. It reminds us how far we’ve com...

  At PT this week I got on the bike. And let me just say, it felt so freeing to move my body more. After months of slow steps, careful movements, and learning how to trust my body again, this felt like a new chapter in my healing. There was something so joyful about pedaling. It reminded me that my body is capable again.  Not pain free yet. But capable. Healing is happening. Now I get to increase by two minutes each time, as long as it feels good. I love that part. Listening to my body. Respecting the process. Trusting that slow progress is still progress. I am learning that healing is not about rushing the finish line. It is about honoring every small step that gets me closer to it. The Lord keeps reminding me that growth often comes in stages. Just like faith, healing is built little by little, moment by moment, step by step. “The Lord will guide you always; He will satisfy your needs in a sun scorched land and will strengthen your frame.” Isaiah 58:11 I am choosing to celeb...

  I had a student write a writing probe recently, and the entire piece was about wanting to be more like me. Now let’s be honest. The first thought that crossed my mind was, Is this student sucking up or is this genuine encouragement? Even if there was a tiny bit of a goody two shoes energy in there, I truly believe his heart was in the right place, and on that particular day, it was encouragement I didn’t even realize I needed. Teaching, especially in seasons where healing is taking place, can sometimes feel like you are pouring out more than you are taking in. But moments like this remind me that relationships matter. Seeds are being planted even when I don’t see immediate fruit. I love that I get to build relationships with my students. I love that they feel safe enough to express admiration, gratitude, or even just honesty in their writing. Those connections matter far more than test scores or perfectly polished essays. “Therefore encourage one another and build one another...

  Well, PT sent me home with a bright pink band to do more exercises at home.   I noticed right away that when I use the band I get a much better stretch. And the biggest win of all is that when I walk afterward there is less pain with each step. How wonderful is that? It feels like such a simple thing, but it has made a noticeable difference. Stretching hurts in the moment, but it brings relief afterward. That feels like such a good picture of this entire healing journey. Sometimes the uncomfortable work is exactly what leads to freedom. This season keeps teaching me that healing is not just about rest. It is also about showing up, doing the work, and trusting the process even when it feels slow or awkward or uncomfortable. That little pink band is reminding me that progress often comes through consistency, not intensity. “Stretch out your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes.” Isaiah 54:2 I am learning that stretching creates...