A Little Dirt, A Little Sunshine, and A Lot on My Heart

This week was full of ordinary things that somehow felt extra meaningful.

We’ve been putting in some serious time trying to get the yard cleaned up.

A wooded area with bare trees and a pile of wood chips, scattered rocks, and a tarp-covered structure. Sunshine streams through the clear blue sky onto the leaf-blanketed ground mixed with dirt and wood chips, adding warmth to this serene setting.

If you’ve ever tackled a big outdoor project, you know it’s a process.

There’s still quite a bit to do in the way, way back—where things tend to get a little wild—but it’s slowly coming together.

The sun is setting over a small waterway framed by trees and two houses, casting a golden glow on the leafless branches and lightly leaf-covered ground. The scene, touched by the gentle embrace of sunshine, captures nature's serene heart.

Honestly, it’s come a long way thanks to all the hard work Rich has done out there over the last few years.

I’m constantly amazed at his quiet determination.

That man can move a mountain of mulch and still have energy to burn.

Sunset view through bare trees reflects on a small pond, with sunshine casting a warm orange and yellow glow across the sky, touching the heart with its beauty.

One evening, we wrapped up work just in time to catch the most breathtaking sunset.

The kind that makes you stop mid-step, breathe a little deeper, and remember why you’re thankful.

The light danced through the trees and reflected off the water in a way that just felt like a gift.

I snapped a few photos, but let’s be honest—there’s nothing like being in that moment.

God’s artwork never disappoints.

Three women smiling, standing indoors near a window with orange curtains that let in streams of sunshine. Ceiling beams and decorative plates add charm to the background.

Earlier in the week, I got to enjoy a belated birthday lunch with my mom and sister.

Life doesn’t always make space for slow meals and long conversations, but we made it happen and it was just what my heart needed.

I’m so grateful for these two women and the laughter we shared over lunch (and lots of breadsticks and chocolate mousse cake, of course).

Two hands form a heart as sunshine filters through, casting a warm glow over the mossy ground adorned with small purple flowers.

I’ve also been sitting with a verse that’s been on my heart—the one where Jesus heals the blind man in stages in Mark 8:22-25.

He touches his eyes once, and the man sees people looking like trees walking around.

Then Jesus touches him a second time, and his vision becomes clear.

That story has been resonating with me so deeply.

It reminds me that sometimes healing—especially spiritual healing—isn’t instant.

Sometimes, the journey with the Lord is a process. A slow clearing. A second touch.

But Jesus didn’t leave the man until his healing was complete!

I feel like I’ve been living in that space lately—the space between first touch and full clarity.

And instead of rushing through it, I’m trying to lean in and let Him work.

Anyway, that’s life lately. Some dirt, some beauty, some grace.

A person in a white shirt and blue jeans is running up a dimly lit staircase towards the camera. A patterned rug adds character behind them, while the closed door with an oval glass window allows a sliver of sunshine to peek through.

Weekly Wins

Okay, this week’s win absolutely goes to my April Fools’ Day success.

After years of waiting for just the right moment (and the right setup), I finally pulled off a prank on Rich—and it was glorious.

I’ve had this one in my back pocket for a while, just waiting for the perfect time.

And let me tell you, it was worth the wait.

Without giving too much away… it involved a very convincing problem, some pretend bathroom drama, and the most hilariously confused reaction from my husband.

I still can’t stop laughing when I think about it.

You can see the full thing here.

So yes, this week’s biggest victory wasn’t in the yard or the kitchen—it was in the fine art of an April Fools’ prank.

Three woven baskets on a countertop: a blue bunny, a yellow chick, and a white unicorn with pink accents, bringing sunshine to the kitchen in the background.

Favorite Find

Okay, I couldn’t not share this one—my favorite find this week has to be these absolutely adorable Easter baskets I picked up at Aldi for just $4.99 each!

I mean… how could I resist?

A bunny, a chick, and a unicorn—each one cuter than the next.

I grabbed one for each of my grandkids, and I can already picture their sweet little faces lighting up when they see them.

They’re the perfect size, super soft, and honestly just too fun to pass up.

Aldi for the win again!

If you’re on the hunt for Easter goodies, keep an eye out for these—you never know what treasures you’ll find in those middle aisles!

A person holds a green hardcover book titled "Footprints for Pilgrims," its cover shining with ornate gold lettering as if kissed by sunshine.

What I’m Watching/Reading/Listening to:

This little gem has been sitting on my shelf for a while, and I recently picked it back up—and I’m so glad I did.

It’s called Footprints for Pilgrims, and it’s such a beautiful old book that it doesn’t even have a copyright—just timeless truth and sweet encouragement for the weary Christian.

The pages are full of quiet wisdom and comforting reminders, the kind that speak straight to your heart, especially when you’re walking through uncertain or tender seasons.

It’s not the kind of book you race through—it’s one you sip slowly.

A little here, a little there.

Just enough to lift your eyes and remind you that you’re not walking this road alone.

A woman with long brown hair, wearing a floral red top and green jacket, stands indoors. Her smile radiates warmth like a touch of sunshine, capturing the heart effortlessly as she gazes at the camera.

That’s a little peek into my week—some hard work, sweet family time, a well-earned April Fools’ laugh, and a quiet reminder that God is still working, even when things feel a little blurry.

One verse that’s been staying with me is this:

“He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 1:6

What a comforting promise, especially on the days when we’re still waiting for that second touch.

Thanks so much for spending a little time here with me.

I’d love to hear how your week has been—feel free to leave a comment and share something that made you smile, something you’re learning, or even your own favorite find!

Until next time,