Some seasons are for building. Others are for blooming. And some — like now — are for gently returning to yourself.

These days, I spend a lot of time in the backyard. It’s not perfectly landscaped or curated. In fact, it has it's own beautiful chaos that I love... like a kid who colors outside the lines and still ends up with something wonderful. My garden space is real. It’s peaceful. And it’s mine.

I have craved solitude in the garden so much on this journey. The Bible mentions gardens over 50 times — as places of protection, provision, and peace. Christ Himself went into the wilderness to collect Himself. And not one disciple was invited. That detail never leaves me. Some journeys are private. Some pruning must happen where no one else can see.

In many ways, my career has felt like a step into the wilderness. I’ve doubted myself. I’ve had wins that completely blew me away. I’ve taken subtle hits to the chin that humbled me and helped me sharpen my focus.

Since striking out more independently, I feel the stillness — and the clarity — returning. I feel better when I can hear God. And I hear Him most clearly when I’m not over-producing, over-proving, or chasing validation. One beautiful thing at a time… that’s enough.

I used to think creativity had to be constant to be real. That if I wasn’t launching, posting, promoting… I wasn’t doing enough. But lately, God has been showing me the value of quiet consistency. Of tending to ideas slowly. Of leaning into flow instead of forcing outcomes.

I don’t need to arrange flowers at a table to feel creative. I’m digging in the dirt, literally and spiritually. In that mess, growth is happening.

What’s Coming

There’s a lot I’m excited about — and all of it feels like divine timing.

I’m knee-deep in a new, multilingual book project that’s stretching and strengthening me in equal measures. It’s nothing like the blank-lined notebooks or gratitude journals I used to publish on Amazon long ago. And that’s the point — it's evolution.

This summer, we are traveling a bit and spending more time with family to replenish the spirit. I’m also cheering on my son in his first real job (a mama milestone for sure). I'm still juggling. Still creating. Still praying. And yes — still smiling.

If you're in a wilderness season, don’t rush it. Summer is a great time for slow living and reflection. If you can, find simple ways to bring more stillness into your life. With so much threatening joy each day, it helps us to remain grateful. There is treasure in the waiting. God works in gardens and deserts alike.

“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?

I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”

— Isaiah 43:19

One beautiful thing at a time.

— Jannie ❤️