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