Wherever We Land

Let’s be real—life doesn’t come with a manual, just a whole lot of trial and error, prayers, and maybe a few mosquito bites along the way. But as I journey through life with a Bible in one hand and a campfire stick in the other, there are some things I know for certain. And I’m talking the kind of for certain that doesn’t budge—not even during a thunderstorm with no signal and wet socks. So here are 10 truths I hold tight, in no particular order… except the first few, which are solid rock.

1. Serving God Comes First—No Debates, No Detours

I’ve learned that when I start my day with Him—whether it’s in prayer, a verse, or a quiet moment before the house wakes up—everything else falls into place. He’s my compass in this wild, beautiful adventure. No amount of hustle, social scrolling, or even coffee (yes, I said it) can replace putting God first.

2. Family is Second, But Definitely Not Second-Rate

My family is my safe space, my belly laughs, and my real-life sitcom all rolled into one. Loving them, supporting them, and making memories—whether it’s around the kitchen table or a smoky fire pit—is what fills my heart. They come right after God, and they’re the greatest blessing I get to live with every day.

3. Nature and Camping Make My Soul Sing

Something holy happens when I unzip a tent and inhale the scent of pine and promise. Nature is one of God’s finest sermons—no pulpit required. Whether I’m out with my husband Snatcher or soaking up the silence under a starlit sky, the great outdoors resets me in a way that Target runs and takeout just can’t.

4. Comfort Over Flash—Give Me Cotton and Clouds

I used to think stylish meant stiff shoes and tight jeans. These days? If it doesn’t breathe, stretch, or feel like a hug—I’m not wearing it. You can keep the glitter boots; I’ll be over here in my camp-friendly cotton hoodie, feeling fabulous and friction-free.

5. Boggle Is Serious Business

It’s not just a word game in our household—it’s a full-blown competition. Snatcher always wins (annoyingly), but every time I get a four-letter word like “holy” or “tent,” I feel like a champion anyway. Life lesson: it’s okay to lose, as long as you’re having fun—and spelling real words.

6. There’s Joy in the Little Things

The smell of fresh air, the sound of birds at dawn, a perfectly toasted marshmallow—these aren’t background noise. They’re front-row blessings. I used to overlook them, but now I know: the little things are the big things.

7. A Good Meal Can Heal Almost Anything

When in doubt, cook. Preferably something cheesy, like my spaghetti casserole or a pot of campfire chili. Food brings people together, and when you’re gathered around a meal you made with love (and maybe a little Italian dressing), problems shrink and spirits rise.

8. You Don’t Need WiFi to Feel Connected

Sure, I love YouTube and sharing our adventures, but the most powerful connections come without a signal. A quiet walk, deep conversation, or watching the sunrise? That’s real connection. And you never have to worry about your battery dying.

9. Mornings Are Better With “I Love You”

Before coffee. Before chaos. Before checking the weather or the to-do list. Hearing “I love you and have a great blessed day in Jesus’ name” from Snatcher every morning is a reminder of what matters most—and it beats any alarm clock I’ve ever had.

10. You Don’t Need to Know Everything to Know Enough

I’m not an expert in everything (still figuring out how to use half the buttons on our van), but I do know this: keep God first, love your people, step outside often, and let grace carry the rest. Life doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful. And I’m perfectly okay with that.

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So, there you have it—10 things I know for sure. It’s a short list in a big, wide world, but it keeps me grounded, grateful, and always ready for the next adventure… especially if it involves a campfire and a hot drink.

What are your certainties? Share them with someone today—and maybe pack an extra s’more just in case. You never know when you’ll need one.