Another year, another birthday. I’ll be honest—38 has me feeling unsure. I don’t really love the idea of creeping closer to 40 (and I know there’s nothing even dreadful about 40). But I have to remember that not everyone gets the privilege of reaching 38 or even another tomorrow. I never want to take that for granted. This year, instead of focusing on the number, I want to focus on gratitude and celebrate all the good in my life.
3 Blessings I’m Most Grateful For
1. God and His Promises – In the joyful, uncertain, or hard—God has been faithful. I’m grateful for His presence, for the peace that comes from knowing He’s in control (although I can admit that I have a hard time accepting that peace), and for the grace He gives me daily. His promises remind me that I’m never alone, that He has a plan, and that my life has purpose. It’s highlighted in the fact that I’m a year older today.
2. My Family and My Friends – The people in my life mean everything to me. John, and our girls, Hope and Faith, are my heart, but I’m also truly thankful for my extended family and the friendships that feel like family. Through every season (easy or rough), these are the people who love, encourage, and support me.
3. The Gift of Life – I am here, living, breathing, and able to celebrate another year. I don’t take this lightly.
8 Joys I’m Celebrating This Year
1. A Fresh Start – I joked with some of the people who know me well that my birthday marks the beginning of my 2025. There has always been this idea that on January 1st, you have to kick off the new year perfectly. Goals all set and diving in. That fresh start rarely goes as planned. I didn’t even begin my Bible in a Year plan in January like I originally intended, but that’s okay. I gave myself grace and started it now—on my birthday. I’m embracing my birthday as my own reset.
2. The Gift of Staying Home and Homeschooling – It’s a huge sacrifice, not always smooth, and some days are a struggle, but I’m thankful I get to be present with my girls every day. I get to watch them learn, grow, and explore the world, and that is something worth celebrating.
3. Music That Feeds The Soul – Music is a big part of our lives, especially because the girls and I are on the go so much. Lately, we’ve been loving The Truth by Megan Woods and Real Help by Patrick Mayberry. There’s something so powerful about finding songs that speak to our hearts, into our lives, and become reminders that we need.
4. Growth & Grace in Motherhood – I’m celebrating the fact that I’m learning to give myself grace. Being a mom is full of ups and downs, but I’m growing in patience, in love, and in the ability to embrace the imperfect days.
5. Everyday Joys – The little things are beautiful if we take the time to slow down and notice it—morning coffee, belly laughs with my girls, warm hugs, and sunsets (just to name a few). What meaningful gifts that we overlook sometimes.
6. The Freedom to Keep Dreaming & Creating – No matter how busy life gets, I’m celebrating that I still like and want to create. Whether it’s writing blog posts like these or sharing glimpses of our life through content in stories or posts, I really do love the process. I haven’t been consistent, and there have been times where I’ve felt stuck or uninspired, but blogging and content creation has given me a way to keep my creativity flowing. I love looking back at what I’ve written and seeing how much I’ve grown, how God has worked in my life, and how even the little things are worth remembering.
7. Lessons That Led to Growth – Not everything this past year has been easy, but even in the tough moments, I can see how God was working. The challenges I’ve faced have made me stronger, wiser, and more reliant on Him.
8. Another Year of Purpose – I’m celebrating the fact that I am here. That God isn’t done with me yet. It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of life (I have to admit, this is ME), the expectations, and the goals we think we should have reached by now. I have to remember that every day is another opportunity to love my family, grow in my faith, and even learn hard lessons.
So here’s to 38—I don’t want to rush this season or wish this time away. As I look ahead to what this year holds, I wonder about the lessons and growth coming my way.
What are you celebrating this year? What little moments or big dreams are you holding onto? I would love for you to share in the comments!