Woven by Grace: A Life of Faith in Every Season

For years, I’ve meant to write down my faith journey—but like many things, it kept getting set aside for “someday.” Finally sitting down to reflect and put it into words has been a sacred experience. Writing this testimony reminded me of how God’s presence has threaded through even the smallest details of my life. It’s far from a perfect story—because I am far from perfect—but it’s honest, grateful, and still unfolding. My hope is to revisit and add to this statement as I continue to grow, serve, and witness God’s work in my life. And I encourage you: if you’ve ever considered writing down your own faith journey, take the time. You might be surprised by the beauty you uncover.

Faith was not just spoken of in my childhood home—it was lived. My parents, equipped by God’s grace, ensured that faith was woven into our everyday: prayers at the dinner table, church potlucks, and steady participation in Sunday School and Bible studies. It was at a Christian summer camp that I first committed to following Jesus—a quiet decision that would shape the rest of my life in ways I couldn’t yet imagine.

God’s faithfulness has often been revealed to me through the people He placed in my path. My youth group leader modeled a life rooted in Christ (and remains a dear friend to this day), and a high school teacher encouraged me—a very introverted teen—to join student council. That experience ultimately led me to my husband, and God has used our marriage as a powerful force of transformation in my life.

When we lived in Pittsburgh,

a community of women in our church nurtured my faith during the tender years (⬅️ they were so little then!) of early motherhood.

Their wisdom and practical care—like babysitting so I could attend Bible study—was a gift I still carry with gratitude. As our children grew, I began to pray that God would place the right people in their lives, just as He had in mine.

Some people saw gifts in me

before I saw them myself. They introduced me to the rhythms of the church year and encouraged me to lead a team in creating worship banners (➡️ one of the first sets of banners).

That one act unknowingly paved the way for Carrot Top Studio to be born. Looking back, I can see how God was quietly at work in all of it—gently weaving a story of faithfulness, provision, and grace.

There have also been moments when God deeply unsettled me—calling me beyond comfort and into conviction. Learning about families living in extreme poverty, just miles from my home, forced me to re-evaluate how I spent my time. The first small act? Turning off afternoon soap operas. That gave me two extra hours each day to serve in more meaningful ways.

Eventually, that call led me to seven ministry trips to Haiti. The unfamiliar language, culture, and need could have overwhelmed me—but instead, I found deep joy in my Haitian brothers and sisters. They taught me what it means to live in community, to trust in God’s provision, and to rejoice with hearts full of praise. I went to serve, but I was the one transformed.

These days,

I find God not just in profound experiences but in the small, sacred rhythms of life. On the trail while hiking, in the wonder of our grandson’s growth, even while folding laundry—I sense God’s nearness. What once felt mundane has become holy ground, a quiet opportunity to worship and serve.

More recently,

the challenges of caregiving for aging parents have invited me into a deeper understanding of what it means to pray without ceasing. Whether it’s navigating hard conversations, such as the moment we took away my mother’s car keys, or simply sitting in the waiting room

—each moment has become a place to welcome the Holy Spirit. I am learning, slowly, that the sacred is not separate from life’s difficulties. It’s woven into the garden, the mountains, the laughter of a child, and even the hardest places.

Now, I can see how God has been shaping me all along. Through encouragement from others, the trials that stretched my faith, and the many quiet ways God has made Himself known in the everyday—I arrive here with a heart full of gratitude. I bring my gifts of administration, encouragement, and service, but most of all, I bring a willingness to walk alongside others in their joys and struggles.

Looking back, I see God’s hand in every chapter. Looking ahead, I trust He will continue to lead me where I am needed most.

🧵 Start Reflecting on Your Faith Journey

We’ve created a beautiful one-page journaling prompt—“Faith Threads: Reflecting on God’s Work in Your Story”—to help you pause, remember, and write down the ways God has been present in your life.

Whether you're just starting to reflect or continuing a long walk of faith, this printable offers a gentle nudge to put pen to paper.

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It's completely free—and as a bonus, you’ll receive occasional encouragement and creative inspiration from Carrot Top Studio.