Go Where You Feel Most Alive...

This statement made me stop and let it sink in.

The world can push us in so many different directions. There are countless choices about where we can go, what we can do, who we can become, and how we should live our lives.

Whether it's for fun, school, work, relationships, or simply how we spend our time, the choices seem almost endless.

And today, the world is constantly putting those choices right in front of us.

When I was growing up, we certainly had choices about what we wanted to do and where we wanted to go. But there weren't nearly as many influences pushing us in different directions as there are today.

Technology has changed almost every aspect of our lives.

There was no social media when I was growing up.

The only phone you had was attached to the wall in your home. If you traveled somewhere, you might call to let someone know you had arrived safely—but if it was a long-distance call, it was expensive.

There were no cell phones that allowed us to instantly call, text, or video chat with anyone, anywhere.

There were no cameras built into the phones we carried in our pockets, once those started becoming a thing in the 90's. If you wanted to take pictures or record video, you had to carry an actual camera with you. And those cameras were often large, expensive, and not something everyone owned.

If you wanted to know where you were going, you used a map.

Or, more likely, an atlas.

You mapped out your route before you ever left home. If you got lost or decided to change directions, you had to pull off the road, get out the atlas, and figure out a new route.

Today, all of that is right there in our phones.

We have maps that can instantly reroute us. Cameras that are always with us. News that reaches us the moment something happens. Social media that constantly shows us what everyone else is doing, where everyone else is going, and what everyone else thinks we should care about.

When I was growing up, you watched the news in the morning or in the evening. You didn't know about every single thing happening in the world the moment it happened. Unless something truly significant occurred, you waited for the next scheduled newscast.

Today, the world is constantly pressing in.

There is always another notification.

Another opinion.

Another story.

Another trend.

Another person telling us what we should want, where we should go, what we should believe, and what success is supposed to look like.

And if we aren't careful, we can find ourselves living a life that was shaped more by the world around us than by what truly matters to us.

We begin following the crowd without ever stopping to ask ourselves if that is actually where we want to go.

We chase things because everyone else is chasing them.

We make choices because they are expected of us.

We compare our lives to the lives we see online.

We follow the direction the world is moving simply because it is the direction everyone else seems to be going.

But what if the direction everyone else is going isn't the direction you are meant to go?

What if the place where you feel most alive is somewhere completely different?

Going where you feel most alive doesn't mean making irresponsible choices or simply doing whatever feels good in the moment. It doesn't mean ignoring wisdom, responsibilities, or the people you love.

But it does mean being willing to stop and ask yourself some important questions.

What brings you joy?

What gives you purpose?

What makes you feel like yourself?

What kind of life do you actually want to live?

Because sometimes, the life that makes you happiest won't look like the life everyone else is choosing.

Sometimes, going where you feel most alive means going against the flow.

And going against the flow isn't always a bad thing.

There is nothing wrong with choosing a different path if it leads you toward a life that is meaningful, fulfilling, and well lived.

You don't have to follow every trend.

You don't have to chase every opportunity.

You don't have to be constantly connected to everything happening in the world.

You don't have to live your life according to someone else's definition of success.

Sometimes, you need to put down the phone, step away from the noise, and listen to yourself.

Not the world.

Not social media.

Not the expectations of everyone around you.

You.

Because your life is yours to live.

And perhaps the best life isn't found by going where the world is pushing you.

Perhaps it's found by having the courage to go where you feel most alive.

To choose the things that bring you genuine joy.

To spend time with the people who matter most.

To pursue the things that give your life meaning.

To live a life that is truly your own.

The world will always be moving in one direction or another.

It will always have opinions about where you should go and what you should do.

But you don't have to follow every direction it points you in.

Sometimes the best thing you can do is step away from the noise, trust your own path, and go where you feel most alive.

Because a life well lived isn't necessarily the life that looks the best to everyone else.

It's the life that feels right to you.

For me, the places where I feel most alive are found in the things that matter most to me—my family, my relationship with God, and following wherever He leads me.

My hope and my faith are centered on the Lord Jesus Christ. So while the world may constantly try to push me in different directions, I want my life to be guided by something greater than the latest trend, opinion, or expectation.

I want to go where God leads me.

I want to spend my time with the people I love.

I want to pursue the things that bring meaning and purpose to my life.

And I want to live a life that is centered on the things that truly matter—not simply the things the world tells me should matter.

Because for me, going where I feel most alive isn't about chasing everything the world has to offer.

It's about being where God has called me to be, surrounded by the people I love, and living with my hope and faith firmly rooted in the Lord Jesus Christ.

That is where I feel most alive.

We Didn't Get Everything Right… But We Got This Right...

As parents, it's easy to replay the things we wish we had done differently.

There are moments we wish we had been more patient. Days we wish we had handled a situation better. Decisions we might change if we could go back. No parent is perfect, and if we're honest, we all have moments we'd like a do-over.

We've certainly had ours.

But every now and then, we take a step back and look at our son, and one thought rises above all the rest:

We may not be perfect, but when we look at our son, we know we got something in our life perfectly right.

Not because he's flawless—he isn't. None of us are.

But because of the kind of young man he has become.

He's respectful when no one is watching. He works hard without complaining. He keeps his commitments. He honors his family. He treats people with kindness and dignity. He loves the Lord. He has learned that success isn't handed to you—it comes through discipline, perseverance, and character.

Watching him grow into adulthood has been one of God's greatest blessings in our lives.

There were years filled with early mornings, late nights, long drives, sacrifices, difficult conversations, homeschooling, practices, competitions, disappointments, victories, and countless prayers. There were moments when we wondered if what we were pouring into him was taking root.

Now we see the fruit.

Parenting isn't about raising children who make us look good. It's about raising adults who will honor God long after they've left our home. 

The world tells parents to be their child's best friend.

God calls us to be their guide.

That means saying "no" when it's unpopular. It means teaching responsibility instead of making excuses. It means correcting with love, modeling integrity, and pointing them toward Christ even when it's hard.

Children learn far more from what they see than from what they hear.

They watch how we treat our spouse.

They watch how we respond to adversity.

They watch whether our faith is genuine or just something we talk about on Sundays.

Our example often becomes their foundation.

Psalm 127:3 reminds us:

"Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from Him."

What an incredible responsibility—and what an incredible privilege.

Looking back, we realize that while we made mistakes along the way, God was faithful. He filled in the gaps where we fell short. He gave wisdom when we asked, grace when we failed, and strength when we felt inadequate.

Any success we see in our son is ultimately a testimony to God's faithfulness far more than our parenting.

As he continues to chase his dreams, work hard, and follow the path God has for him, our prayer remains the same as it has always been:

That he would love Jesus more than success.

That he would value character more than recognition.

That he would lead with humility.

That he would never stop pursuing the purpose God has placed on his life.

No, we haven't been perfect parents.

Far from it.

But if raising a son who loves God, respects others, works hard, stays humble, and lives with integrity is any indication...

Then by God's grace, we got something beautifully right.

And for that, we'll be forever grateful. 

One Year Without You, Nan...

It's hard to believe it's been a year since you left us, Nan.

Losing you just a little over a year after Pop passed has left a hole in our family that can never truly be filled. Family gatherings aren't the same anymore. There are empty chairs where laughter once echoed. There are stories we wish we could still tell you in person. There are moments when we still instinctively think, "I can't wait to tell Nan," before remembering you're no longer here.

People often say time heals all wounds. I don't think that's entirely true.

Time teaches us how to carry the loss, but it never erases the love.

So much life has happened this past year.

Tim turned 18 and five days later he graduated from high school. He got his full class c driver's license. He started a new chapter of adulthood working with his dad. But perhaps the biggest milestone of all was becoming a USA Weightlifting Junior National Champion.

We couldn't help but think of you and Pop that day.

Scot and I can still picture how proud you both would have been. You watched Tim work toward that dream for years. You saw the countless hours of training, the setbacks, the disappointments, and the determination that never wavered.

When he stood on that podium as National Champion, our hearts were overflowing with joy—but there was also an ache.

We wished you were still here to share it.

We wished we could have called you afterward.

We wished we could have seen the smile on your face and heard you tell him how proud you were.

But even in the middle of that bittersweet moment, we found comfort knowing that while you weren't here with us, you are safely in the presence of the One you loved most, watching and smiling from heaven.

Scripture reminds us:

"To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord." (2 Corinthians 5:8)

That promise doesn't erase the pain, but it gives us hope.

There have been birthdays, holidays, celebrations, and ordinary days that have all looked different without you and Pop. We miss your laughter, your hugs, your wisdom, and simply having you here.

Grief has a way of reminding us just how deeply we loved someone.

And what a gift that love was.

I'm so thankful for the years we all had together. Thankful for the memories you've left us. Thankful for the example you lived before us. Thankful that our goodbye isn't forever.

Because for those who know Christ, death isn't the end of the story.

It's simply "see you later."

Until that day, we'll continue living the lives you and Pop encouraged us to live—loving God, loving each other, working hard, celebrating life's victories, and trusting the Lord through every season.

We miss you every single day, Nan.

Not a day goes by that you and Pop don't cross our minds.

Thank you for loving us so well.

We'll carry your memory in our hearts until we're together again.

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain..." (Revelation 21:4)

Until we see you again, We love you, Nan.

A Godly Wife Begins with a Godly Heart...

Now you didn't think I was going to write a husband post and not do a wife one did you???

A Godly Wife Begins with a Godly Heart...

There are countless opinions today about what a woman should be.

Culture tells women to chase success, independence, status, or approval. Others reduce a woman's worth to appearances or accomplishments. But God's Word paints a much more beautiful picture.

A godly wife isn't defined by perfection.

She is defined by her pursuit of Christ.

Scripture says it this way:

"Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised." (Proverbs 31:30)

God isn't looking for a woman who has it all together. He's looking for a woman whose heart belongs to Him.

As I looked over this list, I smiled—and then I laughed a little. Not because I disagree with it, but because I know just how often I fall short.

I've been married to Scot for nearly twenty years, and if there's anyone who knows my flaws, it's him. I'm not always patient. I don't always say the right thing. I get frustrated. I make mistakes. Sometimes I let stress get the best of me. I have to apologize. I have to ask for forgiveness.

I'm far from being the "perfect Proverbs 31 wife."

But every day I ask God to make me a little more like Jesus than I was the day before.

That's the goal.

Not perfection.

Faithfulness.

---

She Loves God Above All Things

Everything starts here.

Before I'm a wife.
Before I'm a mother.
Before I'm a business owner...

I'm first a daughter of the King.

I've learned that when I neglect my relationship with the Lord, every other relationship suffers. I become less patient, less gracious, and much more focused on myself than on serving others.

The closer I stay to Christ, the better wife I become—not because I'm trying harder, but because He's changing my heart.

---

She Loves Her Husband and Children

Love isn't merely a feeling—it's a daily choice.

Marriage isn't always easy. Raising children certainly isn't easy. There are seasons of joy, exhaustion, celebration, and disappointment.

As Scot and I approach twenty years of marriage, I can honestly say our marriage hasn't been sustained because we're perfect people. It's been sustained because God has been faithful.

There have been times when I've needed far more grace than I've deserved, and Scot has extended it anyway. I'm thankful that our marriage has always been built on forgiveness rather than keeping score.

---

She Shows Self-Control

If I'm honest, this is one God continues to work on in me.

Sometimes I react before I pray.

Sometimes I speak before I think.

Sometimes my emotions try to lead instead of the Holy Spirit.

Thankfully, God's mercies are new every morning.

He's still teaching me that self-control isn't about willpower—it's about surrender.

---

She Is the Keeper of the Home

This doesn't mean my house is always spotless.

Anyone who's dropped by unexpectedly can probably testify to that!

It means I want our home to be a place where people feel welcomed, loved, encouraged, and where Christ is honored.

A peaceful home isn't created by perfect decorating or perfect housekeeping.

It's created by people who continually choose love, forgiveness, and grace.

---

She Is a Servant

Serving doesn't always come naturally.

Most of the time I'd rather be served.

These days, more often than not, I'm tired.

There's lots of times that I'm selfish.

Yet Jesus continually reminds me that greatness in His Kingdom looks very different than greatness in the world.

Every opportunity to serve is really an opportunity to become more like Him.

---

She Is Grateful

One lesson God keeps teaching me is gratitude.

It's easy to notice what's wrong.

It takes intentionality to notice what's right.

When I stop and count my blessings, I realize just how much God has done.

A husband who loves Jesus.

A son who loves the Lord.

A growing family business.

A home filled with memories.

God has been incredibly good to me.

---

She Is Modest

Modesty isn't just about what we wear.

It's about humility.

It's about pointing people toward Christ instead of ourselves.

The older I get, the less concerned I am with impressing people and the more concerned I am with pleasing God.

That's a much better way to live.

---

She Is Kind

Kindness is something the world desperately needs.

I don't always get it right.

Many times my words are sharper than they should be.

Sometimes I'm impatient.

But God faithfully convicts me, softens my heart, and reminds me that people are drawn to grace far more than criticism.

---

Progress, Not Perfection

If this list feels overwhelming, remember this:

God isn't looking for perfect wives. 

If He were, none of us would qualify.

He's looking for women whose hearts are fully surrendered to Him.

I'm still learning.

I'm still growing.

I'm still failing at times.

And I'm still amazed that God's grace meets me every single day.

One of the greatest gifts God has given me is a husband who extends that same grace. Scot has loved me through my strengths and my weaknesses, celebrated my victories, forgiven my failures, and continually pointed me back to Christ. I thank God often for the man He gave me, because he reminds me what unconditional love looks like.

Being a godly wife isn't about checking every box on a list.

It's about waking up every day and saying, "Lord, make me more like You today than I was yesterday."

That's a prayer God delights in answering.

A Godly Husband Leads Like Christ...

The world has done a great job confusing what it means to be a man.

Some believe leadership means being in charge. Others think it means demanding respect, getting your own way, or having the final say. But when we open God's Word, we see something completely different.

Biblical leadership has never been about power—it has always been about responsibility.

Jesus, the King of kings, didn't come to be served. He came to serve. He washed His disciples' feet. He laid down His life. He sacrificed everything for those He loved.

That is the model God gives husbands.

As I was reading through this list, I couldn't help but smile because it immediately made me think of my husband, Scot. We've been married for nearly twenty years, and while neither of us would ever claim to be perfect, I have been incredibly blessed with a husband who genuinely strives to honor Christ in the way he loves our family. Watching him over the years has given me a front-row seat to what biblical leadership really looks like.

Love Her Sacrificially

"Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her." — Ephesians 5:25

That's an incredibly high standard.

Jesus didn't love only when it was convenient. He loved completely, selflessly, and sacrificially.

A godly husband asks, "How can I serve my wife today?" instead of "What can she do for me?"

Scot has modeled this in countless ways over the years. Whether it's working long hours to provide for our family, helping around the house without being asked, supporting me through difficult seasons, or simply putting our needs ahead of his own, he's shown me that real love is found in sacrifice—not selfishness.

Real love gives.
Real love serves.
Real love protects.
Real love sacrifices.

Lead Her Spiritually

One of the greatest responsibilities a husband carries is setting the spiritual tone of his home.

That doesn't mean having all the answers or pretending to be perfect.

It means pursuing Christ first.

It means praying, opening God's Word, living it out, asking forgiveness when you've failed, and leading by example.

One of the things I've appreciated most about Scot is that our home has always been rooted in faith. Whether it was supporting our decision to homeschool, encouraging Tim in his walk with Christ, or reminding our family that God comes first, he's consistently pointed us toward Jesus instead of himself.

Honor Her Consistently

Respect isn't something reserved for church or when other people are watching.

It's shown in everyday conversations.

How you speak to your wife...
How you speak about your wife...
How you respond when you're frustrated...

Those moments reveal your heart.

I've never had to wonder if Scot respected me. Whether we're at home or out in public, he treats me with kindness, dignity, and love. That kind of consistency builds trust and strengthens a marriage.

Provide Faithfully

Providing is much more than bringing home a paycheck.

It's showing up every day with integrity.

It's carrying responsibility without complaining.

It's making sure your family knows they're loved and cared for.

For nearly twenty years, Scot has faithfully carried that responsibility. Through busy seasons, uncertain seasons, and seasons of blessing, he has worked hard to provide for our family. I don't take that for granted.

Listen Attentively

Listening is one of the greatest expressions of love.

A wise husband values his wife's heart, thoughts, burdens, and perspective.

Sometimes we don't need someone to fix our problems—we simply need someone to hear us.

I'm thankful that Scot has always been willing to listen, even when life gets busy. Feeling heard is one of the greatest gifts a spouse can give.

Protect Her Tenderly

Protection isn't about control.

It's about creating a place of safety.

A godly husband guards his wife emotionally, spiritually, and physically.

He doesn't use fear, manipulation, or intimidation.

He uses strength with gentleness.

I've always known Scot would stand between our family and anything that threatened us. His strength has never been about demanding authority—it has been about providing security, stability, and peace. That's the kind of protection God intended.

Christ Is the Standard

A godly husband does not rule through intimidation.

He doesn't lead by fear.

He doesn't demand submission while refusing sacrifice.

He leads through humility.

He leads through service.

He leads through love.

He leads by following Christ.

I know there are many women who long for this kind of marriage, and my heart truly goes out to them. No husband is perfect—Scot would be the first to tell you he isn't—but I thank God that he has always desired to become more like Jesus. That has made all the difference in our marriage.

As we approach twenty years together this November, I find myself more grateful than ever. God knew exactly who I needed. Scot has been my partner, my encourager, the father of our son, and one of God's greatest blessings in my life.

The world doesn't need more men who seek power.

It needs more men who seek Christ.

Because when a husband follows Jesus wholeheartedly, his family experiences the love of Christ through him.

And to my husband—thank you for loving me the way Christ has called you to. I thank God for you every single day.

Standards Aren't Selfish...

"I don't have expectations. I have standards."

At first glance, that statement may sound harsh. Some may even think it's prideful. But after thinking about it, I realized there's a big difference between expecting perfection and having healthy standards.

I don't expect people to never make mistakes. I don't expect them to always say the right thing or never disappoint me, my son, or my husband. We've made enough mistakes ourselves to know we're all imperfect.

But I do believe there are certain qualities that every healthy relationship should be built upon.

Respect my time.

Time is one of God's greatest gifts. Once it's gone, we can never get it back. When someone consistently values your time, they're showing they value you.

Match my effort.

Relationships were never meant to be one-sided. Whether it's a friendship, teammate, marriage, family relationship, or even working together in ministry, healthy relationships require both people to invest. One person shouldn't always be carrying the entire load.

Keep your word.

Your word is your reputation. Jesus said, "Let your 'Yes' be yes, and your 'No,' no." (Matthew 5:37). Integrity is shown not by the promises we make but by the promises we keep.

Tell the truth.

Truth builds trust. Lies destroy it.

Honesty isn't always easy, but it's always better than deception. A difficult truth may sting for a moment, but a lie can damage a relationship for years.

Stay consistent.

Anyone can be kind when life is easy.

Character is revealed through consistency. Faithfulness isn't about grand gestures—it's about showing up day after day with the same integrity and the same heart.

Take ownership.

We're all going to fail.

The difference is what we do after we fail.

Mature people apologize without excuses. They learn, they grow, and they take responsibility instead of shifting blame. That's what humility looks like.

Protect my peace.

This isn't about avoiding difficult conversations or pretending life is perfect.

It's about refusing to allow unnecessary chaos, manipulation, or constant drama to have a permanent place in our lives.

God has done too much work in our hearts for us to willingly hand our peace over to someone else's dysfunction.

Philippians 4:7 tells us that God's peace "will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."

If God values our peace enough to guard it, shouldn't we?

These aren't unrealistic expectations.

They're healthy standards.

Standards aren't walls built to keep people out.

They're guardrails that help keep healthy relationships healthy.

Jesus loved everyone, but He didn't entrust Himself to everyone (John 2:24). He forgave freely, but He also walked away from those who continually rejected the truth. He served others with humility, yet He regularly withdrew to spend time with His Father and wasn't controlled by the demands of the crowd.

That tells us something important.

Having boundaries isn't unloving.

It's biblical.

We are called to love everyone, forgive freely, extend grace generously, and pray for those who hurt us.

But loving people doesn't mean accepting dishonesty.

Forgiveness doesn't require tolerating repeated disrespect.

Grace doesn't eliminate accountability.

And protecting your peace doesn't make you selfish—it makes you a wise steward of the heart God has entrusted to you.

So no, we don't expect perfection.

But we do have standards.

Not because we're better than anyone else.

Because healthy relationships require honesty, respect, integrity, responsibility, and peace.

Those aren't unreasonable expectations.

They're simply the foundation upon which lasting relationships are built.

Freedom With Purpose...

(Picture from You Version Bible App)

Freedom With Purpose...

As our nation celebrates 250 years of freedom this Fourth of July, it’s a time to reflect on the sacrifices made so we could live in liberty. Freedom has always come at a cost. Brave men and women fought, sacrificed, and gave their lives so generations after them could experience it.

But while we celebrate national freedom, there’s an even greater freedom we should never overlook—the freedom we have in Christ.

God’s Word reminds us in Galatians 5:13:
“Don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.”

That verse carries weight.

In America, freedom gives us rights, choices, and opportunities. But spiritual freedom gives us something far greater—deliverance from sin, shame, fear, and bondage.

The truth is, freedom without wisdom can lead to destruction.

Just because we can do something doesn’t mean we should.

Christ didn’t set us free so we could live however we please. He set us free so we could live differently—loving deeper, serving others, forgiving quicker, and walking closer with Him.

As I think about this, I’m reminded of our own family journey. Watching Tim step away from taekwondo after 11 years and walk into a completely new path with Olympic weightlifting took courage. He had freedom to choose what was next, but that freedom came with responsibility, discipline, and sacrifice. And now, seeing him become a Junior National Champion reminds me that freedom used wisely can lead to incredible growth.

That’s true in life.
That’s true in faith.
And it’s true for our nation.

As we celebrate 250 years of America, may we remember that freedom is not just something to enjoy—it’s something to steward.

May we use our freedom to honor God, love others, and serve with humility.

Because the greatest freedom isn’t found in independence from people—
it’s found in dependence on Christ.

So today ask yourself:
Am I using my freedom to serve myself… or to serve others in love?

Happy 250th Birthday, America—May we never take freedom—both earthly and eternal—for granted.

250 Years of God’s Faithfulness Over Our Nation 🇺🇸

250 Years of God’s Faithfulness Over Our Nation 🇺🇸

Today we celebrate 250 years of the United States of America—a nation that has been held together not only by courage and sacrifice, but by the mercy and grace of God.

From the very beginning, our history has been marked by prayer, dependence on the Lord, and the belief that true freedom comes from Him. As a nation, we have faced trials, wars, victories, and seasons of uncertainty—but through it all, God has remained faithful.

As we celebrate today with family, friends, and fireworks lighting the sky, may we also pause and remember the One who has sustained this country through every generation.

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.” – Psalm 33:12

Freedom is a gift—and one that should never be taken lightly. It is something to steward with gratitude, humility, and prayer for the future of our children and grandchildren.

Today we honor those who sacrificed for our liberty, those who serve still, and the God who has carried this nation through 250 years of history.

May we continue to seek Him. May we continue to stand for what is right. And may we never forget the source of our true freedom.

Happy 250th Birthday, America. 🇺🇸
Lord, we ask You to continue to bless and guide the United States of America.

#America250 #IndependenceDay #FaithAndFreedom #GodBlessAmerica

Me and My House...

There are certain verses in Scripture that seem to become part of your heart. For me, Joshua 24:15 is one of those verses.

It's more than a beautiful plaque hanging on a wall. It's more than a verse stitched onto a decorative pillow or displayed above a doorway. It's a declaration. A commitment. A decision that affects every part of life.

When Joshua spoke these words, he was addressing the people of Israel after reminding them of all God had done for them. God had rescued them, protected them, provided for them, and fulfilled His promises. Joshua challenged the people to choose whom they would serve. Then he boldly declared that regardless of what others decided, he had already made his choice.

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

I think that's what makes this verse so powerful. Joshua wasn't waiting to see what everyone else was going to do. He wasn't taking a poll. He wasn't following the culture around him. He had made up his mind.

In today's world, that's not always easy.

We live in a culture that constantly pulls our attention in a hundred different directions. There are endless distractions competing for our time, our energy, and our hearts. The world tells us that success, achievement, popularity, and possessions should be our highest priorities. But Joshua's words remind us that our greatest purpose is to know God and serve Him.

Serving the Lord isn't just something we do on Sunday mornings. It's a daily choice.

It's choosing prayer before panic.

It's choosing faith over fear.

It's choosing forgiveness when holding a grudge would be easier.

It's choosing obedience even when it costs us something.

It's choosing to trust God's plan when we don't understand what He's doing.

For our family, this verse has been lived out in countless ways over the years.

When Scot and I married nearly twenty years ago, we made a commitment that Christ would be at the center of our marriage. Have we done everything perfectly? Absolutely not. But through every season—the good times and the hard times—we've tried to keep our eyes on the One who brought us together.

When we chose to homeschool Tim, it wasn't simply about academics. It was about discipleship. We wanted him to know that his identity is found in Christ before anything else. Long before he became a weightlifter, a graduate, or began planning for college, he was a child of God.

Now, watching him step into adulthood has given me an even greater appreciation for this verse.

As parents, there comes a point when you realize that all the lessons, prayers, conversations, and examples you've tried to set are being carried forward into the next generation. You pray that the faith you've lived before your children becomes a faith they embrace for themselves.

My prayer has never been that Tim would simply be successful. Success comes and goes. Trophies collect dust. Records get broken. Achievements fade with time.

My prayer has always been that he would love Jesus and follow Him wherever He leads.

Because at the end of the day, that's what matters most.

The older I get, the more I realize that serving the Lord isn't about having a perfect family. Every family has struggles. Every family faces challenges. Every family experiences heartbreak and disappointment.

Serving the Lord means choosing Him in the middle of those moments.

It means trusting Him when the diagnosis isn't what you hoped for.

It means trusting Him when you're grieving the loss of someone you love.

It means trusting Him when your plans change.

It means trusting Him when you're stepping into an unknown future.

I've seen God's faithfulness through seasons of joy and seasons of loss. I've seen Him provide when I didn't know how things would work out. I've seen Him comfort when my heart was broken. I've seen Him guide our family through decisions that seemed overwhelming at the time.

Looking back, I can honestly say that God has never failed us.

Not once.

That doesn't mean life has always been easy. It means God has always been faithful.

As our family enters a new season, my commitment remains the same as it was years ago.

The world may change.

Circumstances may change.

Children grow up.

Seasons come and go.

But our foundation remains unchanged.

As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.

Not because it's popular.

Not because it's easy.

But because He is worthy.

And after all He has done, all He has carried us through, and all the blessings He has poured into our lives, I can think of no greater purpose than to serve the One who has been faithful every step of the way.

Lift Day...

Lift Day...

Today, in Colorado Springs, Tim lifts at 2:00 PM local time (4:00 PM Eastern) for all of you back home cheering him on. The event will be available to stream online, though there may be a viewing fee—please check for the official broadcast details at USA Weightlifting National's Event page. There is a link as you scroll down the page for livestreaming. 

We’ll continue to update this blog with how Tim performs once his session is complete, so stay tuned for results and highlights.

As a first-year Junior, Tim is excited for the opportunity to compete alongside some incredible lifters today. More than anything, he’s looking forward to learning from the experience—watching how other competitors do, and continuing to grow in the sport he loves.

Now the Work Begins...

After days of traveling across the country, we finally arrived yesterday in Colorado Springs for USA Weightlifting Nationals Week.

As exciting as it is to get here, the reality is that the competition doesn't start the moment you arrive. In many ways, this is where the real work begins.

Over the next couple of days, Tim will focus on getting his body acclimated to the elevation, adjusting to the environment, and spending time in the training hall preparing for competition day. Every athlete has their own routine leading up to a meet, and these days are an important part of the process.

It's always impressive to watch the level of dedication these athletes have. Most people only see the few minutes they spend on the competition platform, but they don't see the months and years of training, early mornings, sore muscles, sacrifices, and discipline that got them there. They don't see the countless hours spent perfecting technique, chasing personal records, and pushing through days when motivation isn't easy to find.

As parents, we're incredibly proud of the work Tim has put in to reach this point. His journey into Olympic weightlifting began after closing the chapter on a sport he had spent over a decade pursuing. Watching him embrace a new challenge, commit himself fully, and continue growing as both an athlete and a young man has been a blessing.

Now we wait for competition day.

Lift Day is June 24th at 4:00 PM Eastern, and we're excited to see all of his hard work put to the test. No matter what happens on the platform, he's already accomplished something special by earning his place here among the nation's best.

We're grateful for the opportunity to be here, grateful for the coaches, teammates, and supporters who have encouraged him along the way, and grateful for the memories we're continuing to make as a family.

The travel is done.

The preparation continues.

Now the work begins.

#USAW #USAWeightlifting #AthleticLabWeightlifting #CarolinasWSO #Nationals2026 #RoadToNationals #WeightliftingFamily #ProudParents

We Have Arrived in Colorado Springs...

Well, we did it again—we drove all the way to Colorado Springs for USA Weightlifting Nationals with Tim!

Thankfully, this trip got a little easier this year now that we can divide the driving between the three of us. I can still remember the days when Tim was competing in Taekwondo and Scot and I had to split all of those long drives ourselves. There were plenty of early mornings, late nights, countless hotel stays, fast-food meals on the road, and more miles than I could ever begin to count.

Looking back, I wouldn't trade a single one of those moments.

Those years gave us so many memories together as a family. Some of our best conversations have happened while traveling down the highway. We've laughed together, prayed together, dreamed together, and watched our son pursue the goals God has placed before him.

One of my favorite parts of road trips is seeing parts of the country that we'd never experience otherwise. Last year and this year are no exception. As we crossed through the Midwest, we saw what felt like endless fields and some of the largest windmills I've ever seen—it's impressive to see. Pictures truly don't do them justice. Standing hundreds of feet in the air, they seemed to stretch endlessly across the landscape. It's amazing to think about the engineering behind them and how small they make everything else look by comparison. They are a reminder of just how vast and beautiful God's creation really is.

Now we're settled in and looking forward to an incredible week together. We love supporting Tim on this journey he's on with Olympic weightlifting. Watching him grow—not just as an athlete, but as a young man—has been one of the greatest blessings of our lives.

This will be Tim's first Nationals as a Junior lifter, and we're excited to see what he accomplishes. More than the medals, records, or rankings, we're proud of the discipline, perseverance, and character he's developed along the way. Those things will serve him long after the competition platform is gone.

And yes, we still have a dream tucked away in our hearts. We can't wait for the day when we see "USA" across his chest. Whether that day comes or not, we're incredibly grateful to be along for the ride and to have a front-row seat to this chapter of his story.

Here's to another road trip, another competition, and more memories we'll cherish for years to come.

❤️🏋️‍♂️🇺🇸🚗

Happy Father's Day...

I know we are in the midst of traveling to Nationals with Tim but I didn't want to let this day go by without making this blog post.

Babe, There are so many things I could say about the kind of father and husband you are, but one thing is certain—you are such a blessing to our family.

Watching you be a dad to Tim over these past 18 years has been one of the greatest joys of my life. From the big milestones to the quiet everyday moments, you have always been there for him with love, wisdom, patience, and support. The way you have guided him, encouraged him, and shown up for him year after year cannot truly be measured.

You are the kind of father every child deserves and the kind of husband every wife prays for. Through every season of life, you have loved us faithfully and sacrificially. Your strength, steadiness, and devotion have helped shape our home into a place of love, security, and encouragement.

As I look at the amazing young man Tim has become, I know so much of that is because of the example you have set before him. He has grown up watching what it means to work hard, love deeply, lead with integrity, and put God and family first.

We are incredibly blessed to have you, and I never want you to doubt how deeply appreciated and loved you are.

Happy Father’s Day to the best dad in the world and the best husband I could ever ask for. We love you more than words can say.

There are so many things I could say about this amazing man who is no longer with us, and somehow words still never feel like enough.

You were the kind of father-in-law every girl hopes to have. In so many ways, you were a better dad to me than my own father ever was. You welcomed me into the family with love, kindness, and acceptance, and from the very beginning, you made me feel like I truly belonged.

You loved your family deeply, and everyone who knew you could see it in the way you showed up for us year after year. You were always there with help, guidance, encouragement, and support whenever any of us needed you. No matter what was going on in life, we knew we could count on you.

You celebrated every milestone, every holiday, every birthday, and every special family moment with us. Your presence brought strength, stability, laughter, and comfort to our family. You were truly the heart of so many of our gatherings.

You were the best patriarch a family could ask for, and your absence is felt more deeply than words can express. There will always be a place in our hearts that only you could fill.

Though Father’s Day looks different now, we still celebrate the incredible man you were and the legacy of love you left behind. We carry your memory with us every single day.

Happy Father’s Day in Heaven, Pop. You are loved, honored, and missed beyond measure.

Losing a parent leaves behind so many emotions, memories, questions, and reflections that seem to grow deeper with time. It’s been 24 years now since you passed away, Dad, and there are still moments when it feels hard to believe how much time has gone by. 

You’ve missed so much over the years—the births of your grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including my son, Tim. There are so many moments I wish you could have witnessed and so many memories I wish they could have made with you.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to understand so much more about your life than I did when I was younger. You loved your family the best way you knew how, shaped by the difficult and painful examples you were given growing up. Life was not kind to you in many ways, especially during your childhood, and I can only imagine how deeply those experiences marked your heart and followed you into adulthood.

You didn’t always know how to express love, but looking back now, I can see the ways you tried. Sometimes love is shown imperfectly through broken people carrying wounds no one else can fully see. You worked hard to make sure we had food on the table, clothes to wear, and a home to live in. You carried responsibilities and burdens that I understand far more clearly now than I ever could back then.

None of us are perfect. We all carry pieces of the lives we were raised in, and so much of how we move through life is shaped by the examples we were given growing up. But despite the imperfections, one thing never changed—you were our dad, and all seven of us loved you deeply because of that.

Time has softened some of the harder memories and brought greater understanding in their place. There is grace now where there once may have only been hurt or confusion. And even after all these years, you are still missed by all of us.

In many ways, pieces of you still live on. We see you when we look into the eyes of our children because so many of your grandchildren inherited your eyes. It’s a quiet reminder that even though you are gone, part of you remains woven into the generations that came after you.

Twenty-four years later, you are still remembered, still loved, and still missed. 

I hope and pray that I will get to see you in heaven someday—while I'm not certain if you ever made a profession of faith to God, I certainly hope and pray in those last moments of your life that you did.

There are truly not enough words to say about this incredible man—my mentor, my father figure, and one of the greatest blessings God ever placed in my life—John Gordon.

God brought you into my life when I was just 8 years old because He knew I needed someone I could look up to, learn from, and feel safe with. From such a young age, you became the steady, godly influence that helped shape so much of who I am today.

All these years later, the impact you had during my formative years is still influencing my life every single day. The love, support, wisdom, encouragement, and godly example you gave me helped mold me into the person I became. So much of the strength, faith, and perspective I carry through life was shaped by your presence and influence.

You showed me what consistency looked like. You showed me what kindness, faithfulness, and integrity looked like. You were there with guidance when I needed direction, support when life was hard, and encouragement when I doubted myself.

Having a strong and loving male role model like you in my life is something I will never stop being grateful for. The value of that kind of influence on a child cannot truly be measured in words. It changes the course of a life.

You were one of the biggest and best blessings I could have ever had growing up, and I thank God for you more than you will probably ever know.

Some people leave fingerprints on your life that never fade, and you are one of those people for me.