Surrounded By Family

For the past 14 years, I've had the privilege of being married to my husband who is in the Army. This life has taken us on quite a journey, and we've moved six times, learning to adapt to new places and new seasons. While I grew up in church, there was a time in my life when hurt caused me to step away from my faith community. For several years, church no longer felt like a place where I belonged.

Everything changed when the Army brought our family to Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Deep down, I knew something in my life had to change, and I realized that only Jesus could bring the healing and purpose I was searching for. I started attending church faithfully each week and eventually joined a Bible study.

That decision changed my life. Through Bible study, I became involved in Stitching Sisters and MomCo. These ministries welcomed me with open arms and surrounded me with women who encouraged me, prayed for me, and pointed me toward Christ. They helped me grow in my faith in ways I never expected and reminded me of the beauty of genuine Christian community.

We've now been in Washington for four years— the longest we've lived anywhere during our marriage. Surprisingly, this has become the first place that has truly felt like home since I left Alabama. Home isn't just a place on a map; it's where God plants you, grows you, and surrounds you with people who become family.

Looking back, I can clearly see God's hand in every step of our journey. What once felt like another military assignment was actually part of His perfect plan. I know He brought us to Washington through the Army for a reason, and I am incredibly grateful that His plan led us here, where He restored my faith, gave me community, and reminded me that He is always faithful.