As the year draws to a close, I find myself looking back with a heart full of gratitude. 2024 has been filled of immense change for our family, but through it all, we have felt God’s steady hand guiding us. From the challenges we’ve faced to the joys we’ve celebrated, He has been our constant source of strength and hope.
From Loss to Renewal
This year began with a sense of loss that I never imagined we would face. Losing our old house in a fire was devastating. It wasn’t just a building—it was a home, a place where memories were made, where Samson took his first steps, and where we dreamed about the future. The grief of that loss was overwhelming, and yet, in the midst of the ashes, God’s faithfulness shone through.
Building our new house has been about more than just constructing walls and a roof. It’s been a process of trusting God’s plan, leaning on Him for provision, and pouring our faith into the foundation of this new chapter.
Before the sheetrock went up, we wrote scriptures on the walls, reminding ourselves that this house is built not just on physical ground, but on the promises of God. Those verses are now hidden, but they remain a reminder that our family stands firm on His Word, no matter what comes our way.
Leaning Into Change
Change isn’t always easy, but it’s often where God does His greatest work. This year has also been about stepping into new roles and embracing new opportunities. From continuing to grow my herbal business, Balance and Bloom, to expanding my offerings with acute homeopathy consultations, I’ve seen God use my passions to serve others. I also started this blog. Launching Simple Country Living felt like stepping out in faith, sharing pieces of my life in a way that I hope encourages others. It’s a space where I can connect with like-minded people and celebrate the beauty of simple, intentional living.
Even in the midst of transition, I’ve felt a deeper calling to slow down and focus on what truly matters: our family, our faith, and the simple, intentional life we’re working to create. Whether we’re helping in Mimi’s garden, gathering eggs from the chickens, or spending quiet moments in prayer, these small, daily acts remind us that God’s work is often found in the ordinary.
As we reflect on this year and the ways God has guided our family through seasons of change, I’m reminded of the beauty found in simplicity. This reflection has inspired me to launch The Year of Living Simply, a 12-month journey to embrace a slower, more intentional way of life. Each month, we’ll focus on simplifying a specific area—whether it’s decluttering our spaces, deepening our faith, or finding joy in the little things. Through monthly newsletters filled with scriptures, tips, and journal prompts, I hope to encourage others to join us in seeking the abundant life God promises when we let go of distractions and make room for Him to work in our hearts and homes.
Finding My Word for the New Year
During this season of change, one thing has become clear: God is calling me to be more present. That’s why my word for 2025 is presence.
After a year filled with transition and busyness, I want to embrace stillness, attentiveness, and gratitude. I want to be fully present with my family in every moment, whether it’s the laughter of playing with Samson, the quiet of baking sourdough in the kitchen, or the deep conversations that draw us closer together.
I also want to be present in my work, offering my best to the people I serve through Balance and Bloom and my blog, and in my time with God, seeking Him in prayer and scripture. Presence feels like an invitation to slow down and live intentionally, and I’m excited to see how this word will shape the year ahead.
A Season of Gratitude
This year has been a testament to the beauty of trusting God’s timing. There were moments when it felt like the weight of everything—the loss, the rebuilding, the uncertainty—was too much to carry. But in those moments, we’ve seen His grace at work. He’s provided peace when we needed it most, strength when we felt weak, and joy in the little blessings that often go unnoticed.
As we prepare to step into a new year, I want to hold onto the lessons we’ve learned during this season of change:
Trust in God’s plan, even when it doesn’t align with our own.
Look for His hand in the small, quiet moments.
Celebrate the progress, no matter how slow it feels.
Looking Ahead With Faith
The journey isn’t over—far from it. We’re still building, still dreaming, still working toward the vision we have for our family and our homestead. But as we close out this year, I’m reminded that every season has its purpose. This one has taught us resilience, deepened our faith, and shown us that with God, nothing is wasted.
To anyone reading this who may also be navigating change, I encourage you to lean on God. He’s not just present in the big moments; He’s there in the quiet, in the waiting, and in the rebuilding.
As Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, “To everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” May we trust Him in every season and step forward with hope into the new year.
If you are interested in joining The Year of Living Simply challenge, make sure to subscribe to the blog to receive the monthly newsletters!
