Little Joys, Big Grace

This morning started slow in the best way. EP woke up early, but instead of rushing out of bed, I let myself linger. We curled up and watched Monster High, half-awake and fully content. Sometimes grace looks like rest—like giving yourself permission to stay cozy a little longer.

After our slow start, the day picked up its pace. EP decided she wanted to wear her flowy pink pants. But then, with a spark in her eye, she realized we both had flowy blue pants. She changed and asked me to match her. And how could I say no? We headed out in matching outfits—blue pants, smiles, and all—and it filled my heart when her classmates and teachers lit up seeing us arrive together like a team. It was a small thing, but it felt meaningful. We belonged to each other in that moment, and we showed it.

Sage had her own little milestone—stepping into a new classroom, standing there wide-eyed but calm, taking it all in. I saw her familiar old friends and the spark of new connections beginning to form. Her quiet bravery inspires me.

Work greeted me with a smoothie and some unexpected gifts: a joyful phone call from my mom and a video of my dad crushing a workout at the gym. He’s been prioritizing his health lately—not for vanity, but for longevity. He wants to be around for his grandchildren, and seeing that intention in action is such a blessing.

Maybe the biggest surprise of the day: I woke up with energy I haven’t felt in a long time. I didn’t realize how much I needed a win like that—a physical reminder that I’m not running on empty anymore.

And tonight, I’m looking forward to a much-needed date night with my husband. We’ve been like passing ships lately—his work event, my church meetings—but tonight we drop anchor. We reconnect.

Today didn’t require perfection. It offered presence. And that’s more than enough.