Navigating Big Life Changes: Embracing Unexpected Blessings and Inner Growth

Six months ago, if you’d told me we’d be standing in our very own home, I would have laughed—and maybe even cried a little. The reality is, homeownership felt like a far-off dream for us. We were deep in talks about downsizing, thinking a tiny home might be our best option. But life has a way of surprising us, and here we are, navigating this unexpected blessing with gratitude and a touch of disbelief.

For me, I honestly thought I'd never be a homeowner. I couldn’t imagine a scenario where we’d buy an entire house. Countless times, it feels like God has laughed at my plans and nudged me in a completely different direction. Right now, I’m trying to trust and go with the path that’s unfolding.

I won’t lie—it’s hard. Any big life change brings its share of triggers, challenges, and forced growth. It feels raw, exposing old wounds I’ve spent years working through. Even with all the inner work, those wounds are still present, and I’m more aware than ever when they surface. That awareness is good, but it’s no less painful.

Yesterday, I had a good conversation in therapy about how trauma and wounds linger with you. While I've done so much to process these shadows, the leap has been in accepting that they’ll always be a part of me. Sometimes, that realization brings me sadness still, but I can see now how they once served to protect me when I needed it most. My goal isn’t to eliminate these wounds or hope they vanish but to accept them, integrate them, and gradually let them take a back seat when life gets intense. Right now, though, they feel sharp, fighting to stay in the driver’s seat—and that’s the real struggle. In the midst of this transition, it's a daily challenge.

I shared that with this huge transition, I sometimes feel like I’m swatting flies—each representing a different trigger, wound, or insecurity. My focus is on trying to enjoy this new chapter while coping in a way that’s healthy.

Becoming aware of these wounds and triggers is a step toward healing, but awareness is just one part of the journey as life unfolds. Now more than ever, I’m taking it all in and embracing the ride from the driver’s seat. I’ve had my moments of breaking down, but I haven’t lost sight of what a beautiful blessing this is for us and our growing family.

When I think about this home, I feel a deep sense of happiness. I love seeing how much joy it brings to Ben, too. I picture us feeling healthier, enjoying the extra space, staying close to family, and building a community in this place that feels like home.

Ahhh, stay tuned! Next week, I’ll be sharing some pictures from our big renovation project, complete with before-and-after shots. Plus, you’ll get a first peek at my new art studio—I can’t wait to set it up!