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