LIFE LATELY, LESSONS LEARNED, and TRUSTING GOD in a NEW SEASON
Hi Friends,
It’s been a while since I’ve written here. So much has happened, and I wanted to take a moment to catch you up, share what God’s been teaching me, and hopefully encourage your heart if you’re walking throught changes of your own.
Life Lately
The past year has been full—-and a little bit of everything!
Celebrating 31 Years of Marriage
This past March, my husband and I marked 31 years of marriage together. Through every high and low, God’s grace has been the anchor in our marriage, and I’m more convinced than ever that His love is what makes ours possible.
Family Milestones
In July, our son got married in Atlanta in the most beautiful ceremony. Watching him begin this new chapter reminded me of God’s faithfulness to our family through every stage. Since Aaron was born I have prayed that he would marry a passionate follower of Jesus. Lana is all that and so much more. Ephesians 3:20.
Attending the Inauguration
In January, Todd and I had the opportuity to attend the Inaguration and an Inagural Ball, an incredible and memorable experience, reminding me how important it is to pray for our leaders and our nation. I serve on the NFAB (National Faith Advisory Board) and am encouraged to see how God is answering prayer in America.
Health & Wellness
Since January, Todd and I have been working toward better health. I’ve learned that caring for my body is not vanitiy—it’s stewardship, and allows me to serve and Iive with energy and joy.
Saying Goodbye
My wonderful father-in-law passed last September. Now both sets of our parents are gone. Many of you know it is difficult to say goodbye to your parents. Todd and I have learned new things about grief and how God meets us there.
Adjusting to the Empty Nest
With both my sons grown and living hours away for a while now, the house still feels different…quieter. I’ll be honest—-some days it’s lonely, and I miss the daily life we used to share. But God has been gently showing me that this new season is not an ending, but an opportunity to grow closer to Him and to discover fresh purpose.
Gallery Life
At Gallery by the Bay, it’s been a blessing to meet people from near and far, to share the beauty of original art, and to see how creativity opens doors for converstions and connections.
Lessons Along the Way
Here are a few truths God keeps bringing to mind in this season:
1. God’s timing is perfect, even when it’s different from mine. He knows what I need before I do.
2. Loneliness can be an invitation. It’s an open space where God meets me, fills me, and reminds me that He is enough.
3. Each Day Has Purpose. Whether it’s a big family event or a quiet Tuesday morning, every moment of my life can be lived for His glory.
4. Fulfillment comes from aligning my life with God’s plan.
A Word of Encouragement
If you’re in a season of change—-maybe the kids are grown, or your days don’t look like they used to—you’re not alone. God’s Word tells us, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). He is faithful in every chapter, and he delights in walking with us through new beginnings.
We don’t have to rush to figure it all out. Just take the next step in faith and trust that He’s already in tomorrow.
Looking Ahead
I plan to write here more often again—-sharing life updates, faith reflections, and glimpes into gallery life. My prayer is that when you visit this space, you leave feeling lighter, hopeful and reminded how deeply you are loved by the Lord.
Until next time,
DuAnne
