xoxo, lissa.

This morning, as I sipped on my coffee while watching the sun peek through the curtains, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of gratitude wash over me. It’s such a simple pleasure, really—sitting in the warmth of my home with my sweet Missy curled up at my feet and Boom keeping a watchful eye out for any signs of adventure. There’s something so cozy about these mornings, don’t you think? It’s like a little reminder from Heavenly Father that He’s here with me, preparing me for what’s to come.

I spent some time scrolling through Pinterest, as I often do, and I stumbled upon the most beautiful photos of homesteads. I could practically smell the fresh bread and hear the laughter of children running around in the yard. It’s funny how those images can stir something deep in my heart. There’s a part of me that believes those dreams were placed there for a reason, and I feel a calling to cultivate that future.

Jake walked in just as I was getting lost in my daydreams, and I could see a slight smirk on his face. He always teases me about my Pinterest boards, filled with homes I don’t own and gardens I can’t quite manage yet. But I think he secretly loves hearing me dream out loud. I caught myself sharing my vision of our future—children, a vegetable garden, and maybe even a few chickens. I could see him chuckling at the thought of me chasing after them with a basket in hand. There’s something so special about those moments of hope and planning together.

Of course, there are days when it feels harder to be in this season of preparation. I mean, scrolling through social media can sometimes bring up those feelings of reflection. So many of my friends are already taking steps into marriage and motherhood, and I find myself quietly pondering God’s timing. I trust that He knows what He’s doing, even when I can’t quite see the whole picture.

Sometimes I wonder if I’m doing everything right. I look at others who seem to have it all together, and I can’t help but think about my own journey. It’s easy to slip into that comparison trap, especially when I see engagement announcements or family photos that tug at my heart. And yet, I remind myself that my journey is uniquely mine, filled with its own purpose and blessings. I know that preparing for my future means learning to be the woman I envision—someone who creates a warm and welcoming home.

One of the ways I’ve been preparing is by diving deeper into my homemaking skills. I recently tried my hand at baking bread from scratch. Let me tell you, there’s something deeply satisfying about kneading dough and watching it rise. The smell that fills the house is just heavenly! I can almost picture my future children gathered around the kitchen table, eagerly waiting for a slice of that warm bread. It’s those little moments that fill my heart with hope.

And while I don’t have my own homestead yet, I’m learning about gardening. I’ve been researching ways to grow herbs in tiny pots, and I can’t wait to bring that fresh flavor into my cooking. I know it’s all part of that slow and seasonal life I crave—a life grounded in simplicity and purpose.

I think about the kind of wife and mother I want to be, and it motivates me to keep working on myself. I want to honor the body Heavenly Father gave me, so I stay active and make healthy choices. I want to be strong enough to chase after those little feet someday and energetic enough to create a loving home filled with laughter and warmth.

Jake and I have been talking about family traditions lately, and it’s been so sweet to dream about our future Christmases together. I picture cozy evenings with lights twinkling, the smell of pine filling the air, and the sounds of our children excitedly unwrapping gifts. I want our home to be a place where memories are made—where holidays feel special, not stressful.

I’m grateful for Jake, even if he does have a different perspective on some things. He’s a vegan bodybuilder, and while I might prefer hearty family meals, I admire his discipline and kindness. I can’t help but think that one day, once we’re married, he might just embrace a more traditional lifestyle along with me. Maybe I’m dreaming a little, but I have faith that Heavenly Father has a plan for us.

As I reflect on all of this, I feel a gentle nudge in my heart to keep preparing. I’m learning not to see this season as waiting but as a beautiful time of becoming. Each day is an opportunity to grow, to cultivate my skills, and to deepen my faith. I’m excited about the future, and I trust that Heavenly Father is guiding me on this path.

So here’s to cozy mornings, dreaming big, and preparing for the life that’s waiting for me. I’ll keep baking bread, practicing my gardening skills, and cherishing these moments with Jake and our fur babies. After all, every little step I take now is a step toward the beautiful life I believe Heavenly Father has promised me.

With love and hope,

Lissa

Today started off so lovely. I brewed my favorite coffee blend while watching the sunrise spill golden light across our little kitchen. I sat at the table, with Missy curled up in my lap and Boom happily bouncing around the room, trying to figure out what kind of trouble he could get into next. Honestly, it’s moments like these that make me feel like I’m holding onto something very special, even if my future still feels a bit like a dream.

Jake was still asleep, and I couldn’t help but think about how much I adore our life together, even in the chaos. I mean, who else could I share my Pinterest boards with, filled to the brim with cozy homes and beautiful gardens? I often wonder what he thinks when I go on and on about my dreams of a homestead filled with children and chickens. He’s so practical and often teases me about my “farmer fantasies,” but I think deep down, he enjoys seeing me dream. Maybe it’s because he knows I’m preparing, even if it doesn’t look like what most people envision.

As I was sipping my coffee, I felt a nudge of gratitude for this season of preparation. I’ve been reflecting on how Heavenly Father has placed certain desires in my heart, and I’m convinced He’s preparing me for something beautiful. I know I’m not quite there yet—there are still days when I scroll through Instagram and see my friends engaged and starting their families, and I can’t help but wonder why our journeys look so different. But I’m learning that every moment is part of His plan.

Sometimes I think about the life I envisioned for myself in high school, where everything seemed to align perfectly. I was head cheerleader, dating the football captain, and everyone assumed I’d be the first to walk down the aisle. Yet here I am, 26 years old, still waiting for that ring and the white dress. And while I’m genuinely happy for my friends, I can’t help but wonder if I’ve somehow missed the boat.

But then I pray about it and remember that it’s all about God’s timing. Maybe the waiting isn’t about being impatient; maybe it’s about preparing my heart and home for the family I’ve always dreamt of. It’s about creating a cozy space filled with love and warmth, even if it’s just the three of us—me, Jake, and our two dogs—at the moment.

I’ve been inspired to dive deeper into homemaking lately. I’ve taken up baking bread from scratch, which has quickly become one of my favorite things. There’s something so fulfilling about kneading the dough and watching it rise. I can almost picture my future children racing into the kitchen, excited to smell the fresh bread cooling on the counter. I love the thought of creating those memories, even if they’re just in my mind for now.

And gardening! Oh my goodness, I can almost feel the dirt under my nails. I’ve been researching plants that thrive in Southern California, and I can’t wait to start my little vegetable garden. Who knows? Maybe I’ll surprise Jake with a homemade dinner featuring fresh veggies from our backyard someday. I know he’s a vegan bodybuilder, and while I’m still hoping he’ll embrace a more traditional lifestyle eventually, I love that he supports my dreams, even if he teases me about them.

Reflecting on these dreams brings me so much peace. I want our future holidays to be cozy and full of family traditions, where we gather around the table and enjoy homemade meals. I picture a home filled with laughter, where every corner is a reminder of love and intentionality. I want people to feel welcomed the moment they walk through our front door, just like I feel welcomed in our church community. There’s something so beautiful about that, don’t you think?

Of course, I know I still have a lot to learn. Some days, I catch myself feeling a twinge of insecurity, especially when I see my friends sharing engagement photos or baby announcements. It’s not jealousy, but rather a gentle reminder that we all have different paths. I trust that Heavenly Father knows what He’s doing, even when I can’t see the bigger picture. I’m actively preparing for my calling as a wife and mother, and I believe all these little moments of homemaking are part of that journey.

And as I’m getting better at caring for my home, I’m also focused on caring for myself. I’ve been prioritizing fitness and health because I want to be strong enough to chase after little feet someday. I want to be energetic and healthy so I can fully embrace the life I believe God has planned for me. Sometimes, I think people mistake that for vanity, but for me, it’s all about stewardship. Taking care of the body Heavenly Father gave me feels like honoring Him, and I genuinely believe it’s part of my preparation.

Even in the little things, I can already feel the blessings pouring in. Whether it’s decorating for the seasons or planning cozy coffee dates with my girlfriends, I’m learning to cultivate a life filled with intention and purpose. I feel like every day is an opportunity to reflect on what matters most and to be grateful for the blessings I’ve been given.

As I wrap up my thoughts for today, I’m reminded that this journey of preparation is ongoing. Each prayer, each moment spent in the kitchen, and each dream I hold close to my heart is just another step towards the future I believe is waiting for me. I may not have everything figured out yet, but I trust that I’m becoming the woman I’m meant to be—little by little.

So, here’s to the cozy moments and the everyday preparations. I’ll keep dreaming and nurturing the desires placed in my heart. One day at a time, I’m cultivating the life I know Heavenly Father has in store for me.

XOXO,
Lissa

This morning, I found myself sipping my coffee while watching Boom and Missy tumble around the living room, and I couldn’t help but smile. They have such different personalities—Boom, with his rambunctious energy, always getting into something he shouldn’t, and Missy, who’s just the sweetest little spaniel, always looking for cuddles. It’s moments like these that fill me with gratitude, reminding me that even in this season of preparation, my life is already full of blessings.

It struck me how much I love this little chaotic family we have created, even if it’s just the three of us and two fur babies for now. I was chatting with my girlfriend Trysta the other day, and she commented on how my home feels so cozy. I think that’s all part of cultivating a space where love and intention can flourish, don’t you? I often catch myself dreaming about what our home will look like one day when it’s filled with children and maybe even a few chickens running around. I can already picture the vegetable garden and fresh bread cooling on the counter, with the smell of cinnamon wafting through the air. Those thoughts bring me so much joy, and I know deep down that Heavenly Father has placed those desires in my heart for a reason.

Jake always laughs at me when I talk about our future homestead. He teases about my Pinterest boards filled with dreamy farmhouse kitchens and perfectly arranged gardens. But I think he secretly loves hearing me dream out loud. Sometimes I wonder if he sees it too—the life I picture for us, filled with warmth, laughter, and cherished family traditions. I can’t help but feel like I’m preparing for something beautiful, even if it’s not here yet.

The other day, as I was scrolling through Instagram, I stumbled upon a post of one of my high school friends who just got engaged. My heart did that little flutter, you know? I’ve been reflecting on how so many of my friends are moving into the next chapter of their lives while Jake and I are still figuring things out. I know everyone’s journey is different, and I truly believe in God’s timing, but sometimes it makes me wonder why I’m still waiting for that proposal. I frame those thoughts as prayerful reflections because I trust that what’s meant for me will come in due time.

There’s this little voice in my heart that tells me I’m not just waiting; I’m preparing. I think about all the homemaking skills I want to learn—baking bread from scratch, creating seasonal decorations, and maybe even canning some of our homegrown produce one day. I may not have kids asking me what’s for dinner yet, but I can still practice now, right? There’s something so intentional and fulfilling about it.

Speaking of cooking, I’ve been trying a few new recipes lately. Last week, I made a hearty vegetable soup that felt so comforting. I was so proud of myself for using fresh veggies from the farmers market. I can’t wait to have a garden of my own someday, where I can grow everything I need right in my backyard. I imagine little hands helping me plant seeds and pick tomatoes, and it fills my heart with hope. There’s something incredibly special about nurturing a garden, just like I want to nurture my future family.

Sometimes I think about how my faith guides me through all of this. As a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I genuinely feel that Heavenly Father has a plan for me. It’s not always easy to see that plan unfold, especially when I see my friends achieving milestones I thought would be part of my story by now. But I remind myself that we’re all daughters of our Heavenly Father, and He knows what each of us needs. I trust that He’s preparing me for my future calling as a wife and mother, even if I can’t see the bigger picture yet.

Jake and I have such different perspectives on life. He’s all about his vegan lifestyle and fitness, while I often dream of a more traditional homemaking role. I admire his discipline and kindness, and I believe there’s a place for both of our values in our future. I pray that one day, he’ll embrace a little more of that homesteading life I long for. I can envision us sitting on the porch in the evenings, watching our kids play in the yard while we share a meal made from our garden’s bounty. I know it might sound naive, but I believe that love and faith can bridge those differences.

Being part of a community that shares similar values is such a blessing, too. My friends and I, affectionately known as “The Blondies,” often get together to discuss our hopes and dreams. We inspire each other, even if we sometimes unintentionally fall into the comparison trap. I’ve been praying for guidance on how to encourage others without feeling that subtle competitive edge creeping in. I want to uplift my friends and celebrate their journeys without letting my own desires cloud my heart.

As I sit here reflecting on everything, I can’t help but feel that this season of preparation is beautiful in its own right. I’m learning to cultivate gratitude in the small moments, from the laughter of my dogs to the warmth of our home. I know that each day brings me closer to the life I’ve always envisioned, and I’m excited to see how it all unfolds. So, here’s to preparing—one homemade meal, one prayer, and one cozy moment at a time.

Until next time, keep dreaming and preparing, my friends.

XOXO,
Lissa

This morning, I found myself in the kitchen, the sunlight streaming through the window, and I was just thinking about how lovely it is to start the day with a little intention. I made my usual cup of coffee, but this time I added a sprinkle of cinnamon, and oh my goodness, it was like a warm hug in a mug! It made me smile, thinking about how such small things can bring so much comfort to our everyday lives.

It’s funny because Jake often jokes about my little rituals. He says I act like I’m already living on a farm, with my love for fresh flowers, homemade meals, and dreams of a big garden. Maybe I do! But, honestly, I think there’s something special about cultivating the life you envision, even if you’re not quite there yet.

As I stood there sipping my coffee, I couldn’t help but reflect on what it means to prepare for the future. I believe Heavenly Father places certain desires in our hearts for a reason. Some people feel called to travel or climb the corporate ladder, but for me, it’s always been about homemaking and nurturing a family. When I picture my future, it’s not in high-rise offices or bustling city streets. Instead, I see a cozy kitchen filled with the smell of fresh bread, children laughing in the backyard, and a husband coming home to a warm, welcoming space.

Sometimes, I wonder if other little girls dreamt of these things too. I think back to high school, where I was surrounded by friends who seemed to be racing ahead with engagements and wedding plans. I was the head cheerleader, the girl with a bright future ahead, and I genuinely thought I would be the first to walk down the aisle. Yet here I am, still dreaming and preparing.

It’s not that I’m waiting for my life to begin. I’ve been actively preparing. I spend my weekends learning to bake bread from scratch, even if it’s just for Jake and me. I’ve been working on my gardening skills, imagining a time when I might have a big, beautiful vegetable garden. And of course, my Pinterest boards are filled with home decor ideas that are probably a bit more ambitious than what our current apartment allows, but a girl can dream, right?

Jake sometimes teases me about those boards, but I think he secretly enjoys listening to me share my visions. He’s so different from me, being a vegan bodybuilder and all, but I admire his discipline and kindness. I can’t help but hope that one day he’ll embrace the idea of hearty family meals and perhaps even a few chickens in the backyard. I mean, wouldn’t that be the dream? I imagine us sitting on a porch, sipping lemonade, watching our kids run around. It’s a beautiful picture that fills my heart with hope.

Even though we’re in a season of waiting—or should I say preparing?—there are days when I feel a little twinge of concern. I see friends posting engagement photos, and while I’m genuinely happy for them, I can’t help but reflect on God’s timing. I’ve been praying about it, really seeking guidance. I trust that Heavenly Father knows the desires of my heart, even when I don’t quite understand His timing.

And I want to be clear: I’m not judging those who seem to be moving ahead faster than I am. It’s just something that’s been on my heart lately. I wonder sometimes why our journeys look so different. But then I remind myself of the importance of stewardship—not just over our homes, but over our lives. Heavenly Father has entrusted me with this time, and I want to honor Him with it.

It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of life, especially in a world that feels so fast-paced and disposable. I crave something slower, something more intentional. I want my home to be a sanctuary, a place where people feel welcomed and loved. I want my future children to have memories of cozy family dinners and holiday traditions that feel special instead of stressful.

As I think about all these things, I realize that I’m not just preparing my home; I’m preparing my heart. I want to be a good steward of my body and spirit too. I take care of myself not out of vanity, but out of gratitude for the health I’ve been given. I want to be energetic enough to chase after little feet someday, strong enough to tend a garden, and vibrant enough to love my family well.

So, little by little, I’ll keep cultivating those dreams. I’ll keep learning new homemaking skills and filling our home with warmth and love. I’m not where I want to be yet, but I’m so grateful for the journey. I’m excited about what’s to come, and I’ll continue to pray for guidance as I prepare for the life that Heavenly Father has promised me.

As I finish this post, I feel a sense of peace. Life is a beautiful journey of preparation, and I’m exactly where I need to be, one day at a time.

Sending love and light your way!

XOXO,
Lissa

I almost didn’t write this because I know people are going to assume I’m judging them.

I’m really not.

If anything, I think we’ve become so afraid of hurting someone’s feelings that we’ve stopped encouraging each other to become the very best versions of ourselves.

Please hear my heart before you get upset with me.

I genuinely believe that taking care of your body matters.

Not because your worth comes from your appearance. Our worth comes from our Heavenly Father, and nothing can ever change that.

But I also believe He gave us these bodies to care for, not to neglect.

Maybe this is an unpopular opinion, but I don’t think we should pretend that being healthy and fit isn’t a blessing.

I don’t think we should pretend attraction doesn’t matter in marriage.

I don’t think we should pretend discipline doesn’t matter.

Those things aren’t shallow to me.

They’re part of becoming the kind of wife I’ve always hoped to be.

I’ve dreamed about marriage for as long as I can remember. I want my future husband to know that I’ll never stop choosing him. I want to keep putting effort into our relationship. I want to stay active with him, dress up for him, surprise him with date nights, and yes, I want him to think I’m beautiful.

I don’t understand why that’s controversial.

People joke all the time about women “letting themselves go” after they get married.

I don’t ever want that to be me.

I don’t think taking care of yourself should stop because you finally got the ring. If anything, I think that’s when the real work begins. Marriage deserves our best.

Maybe that’s because I’ve watched so many relationships fall apart, and I can’t help wondering if somewhere along the way people just stopped trying.

I know everyone has different circumstances, and I’m not talking about illness or things outside our control. Life happens.

I’m talking about making the choice every day to care.

To move your body.

To nourish it.

To be intentional.

To become the healthiest version of yourself.

I truly believe that’s part of honoring Heavenly Father.

I also believe it’s part of honoring your spouse.

Sometimes I think our culture has confused acceptance with encouragement. We tell people they’re perfect exactly as they are, but shouldn’t we also encourage each other to grow?

To become stronger?

Healthier?

More disciplined?

Closer to the people God created us to be?

Maybe I’m old-fashioned.

Actually…I know I am.

But I believe wives should keep pursuing their husbands long after the wedding day. I believe husbands should keep pursuing their wives too. Love isn’t something we earn once and then stop investing in.

So no, I’m not writing this to shame anyone.

I’m writing it because I honestly believe we can all become better stewards of the gifts Heavenly Father has given us.

If that makes me sound traditional, I’m okay with that.

I’d rather encourage women to become strong, healthy, joyful wives and mothers than pretend those things don’t matter.

That’s just what I believe, and I hope you’ll know it comes from a place of love, even if you don’t agree with me.

I’ve been doing a lot of thinking lately, and I have a feeling some of you might understand exactly what I’m talking about.

When I was in high school, everyone seemed to think they knew how my life was going to turn out. Honestly…so did I.

I was the head cheerleader. I dated the football captain. I was involved in just about everything, and I always imagined I’d be one of those girls who graduated, got married, started a family, and spent my days making a beautiful home.

That picture felt so clear in my mind.

Sometimes it still does.

Now I’m twenty-six, living in Southern California with Jake and our two spoiled pups, Missy and Boom, and while I have so much to be grateful for, life hasn’t unfolded quite the way I expected.

Don’t get me wrong—I love Jake with my whole heart. He’s thoughtful, funny, incredibly disciplined, and somehow manages to juggle bodybuilding, party planning, and veganism all at once. If you’d asked seventeen-year-old me what my future husband would be like, I don’t think I would’ve described him quite that way. God definitely has a sense of humor sometimes.

Still…

Every Christmas.

Every anniversary.

Every birthday.

There’s always that tiny little part of me that wonders if this will finally be the day.

I don’t think that’s a bad thing to hope for.

I’ve always believed Heavenly Father placed the desire to become a wife and mother on my heart for a reason. I don’t see those dreams as something I’m chasing—I see them as something I’m preparing for.

That’s why I’ve been learning to bake from scratch, collecting recipes, reading everything I can about homemaking, pinning ideas for my future garden, and dreaming about the little homestead I hope we’ll have someday. I may not have the farmhouse yet, but I can become the kind of woman who’ll fill it with love.

Sometimes, though, I’ll be scrolling through social media and another engagement announcement pops up.

Another baby.

Another family photo.

Another couple moving into their forever home.

And if I’m being honest…it can be hard not to wonder why my season looks different.

I have to remind myself that comparison isn’t where peace comes from.

Purpose comes from becoming the woman Heavenly Father is calling me to be, even if I don’t understand His timing yet.

Maybe that’s what this season is really about.

Not waiting.

Preparing.

Preparing my heart.

Preparing my home.

Preparing myself for the life I’ve been praying for ever since I was a little girl pretending my bedroom was a farmhouse kitchen.

I still believe that life is out there.

Maybe not on the exact timeline I imagined.

But I trust that if Heavenly Father placed those dreams in my heart, He’s also preparing me to receive them when the time is right.

Until then, I’ll keep baking the bread.

Saving the recipes.

Dreaming about chickens.

And believing that every small step I take today is helping me become the wife, mother, and homemaker I’ve always known I was meant to be.

XOXO,

Lissa