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