And in just a few weeks, we’ll be celebrating another senior—our oldest son. 🎓

My handsome high school grad.

Lately, I’ve found myself mentally moving from one thing to the next, checking off a box and immediately tackling another.

And did I mention I got my first driving ticket a few weeks ago? (Yes… at 45.) So now I’m spending some of my free time in defensive driving courses. 😅

This time of year is always a busy stretch as a full-time working, part-time homeschooling mom. I’m not trying to win any awards for being the busiest, but sometimes it does feel like I’m punching a time clock—coming and going.

But this year feels a little softer.

For the 45th time welcoming the beautiful, busy month of May, I’m learning—slowly—to stay present. To lean into the moments. To notice what I’m feeling, what I’m looking forward to, what I’m actually enjoying…

Not just what I’m doing (or what I need to do next).

And in the middle of all of it, here’s what’s been bringing me joy lately…

📖 What I’m reading

• “It Rained the Day He Left”
  A heartfelt Substack post written by my friend Kris. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to release your child into military service… 🇺🇸

✨ What I’m loving

• Shimmer Eyeshadow Trio
  These silky eyeshadow sticks glide on easily and are travel-friendly and water-resistant. I’m always up for a bit of shimmer.

🌿 What I’m learning

• I’m learning to give myself permission to enjoy the good, simple things—rest, food, comfort, being loved, and loving in return… and to release what keeps me anxious and stuck.

📬 If you missed it . . .

• “A Gentle Reminder That God is Kind”

  A short, devotional read to remind you: God is not distant. And He is not disappointed in you. Read now.

Have a beautiful weekend, sweet friend! And happy May.

Veritas et Gratia,
Kristy 💐

This morning, I’m writing from my dining room table, fogged windows framing a grey, wintry world outside. I’m wrapped in a blanket, laptop open, getting the final edits in on my chapter for the Hope*Writers collaborative book. It’s due for submission in just a few days.

Last week, I asked if you’d read an early draft. Honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But the outpouring of encouragement and thoughtful reflections you sent in?

It undid me, in the best way.

Here’s just a glimpse of what some of you shared:

“I love how you were very real and vulnerable about your struggles. I think that will really speak to women who are battling anxiety.”

“Thank you for being so vulnerable and willing to share this. I found that it really resonated with me.”

“It is very relatable! Again, thank you for your bravery and honesty.”

“Thank you so much, you’re brave to be that honest.”

“I wept as I read.”

“I could totally relate. What a sense of relief.”

“There were several moments of, ‘Me too!’ It felt good to have my own issues acknowledged, and then followed up with encouragement and backed up by God’s word.”

Your words reminded me of something I’ve been holding in my heart lately: “Heal out loud so that others don’t have to suffer in silence.” Maybe that’s part of my calling as a writer.

I even wrote a prayer for the woman who has suffered in silence. If you missed it on the blog this week, you can read it here:
👉 A Prayer for the Christian Woman Who Has Suffered in Silence

Thank you again for reading, for responding, and for walking this journey with me. I’ve got a list of lovely friends to reply to by email, and I’m soaking in every word as I finish up these edits this weekend.

If you’re iced or snowed in like we are, I hope you stay warm and safe.

With so much gratitude,
Kristy 💐

As a reader of Friday Reads, you’re part of the heartbeat behind my writing.

This week, I’m excited (and a bit nervous) to share something deeply personal—a first draft of a chapter I’ve written for a new collaborative book with Hope*Books.

Before I send it to the editing team at the end of the month, I’d love your honest feedback.

If you’re up for reading the chapter and sharing a few thoughts, just hit reply and say, “I’m in.” I’ll send it your way.

I’m hoping to gather feedback by next Friday (Jan. 23), so there’s a short window—but even a few quick reactions would mean so much.

Thanks for being here with me! I can’t wait to hear from you.

With gratitude,
Kristy 💐