Let's Talk Life with Samantha Ray

Send us Fan MailWhat if your natural joy isn’t something to be suspicious of, but is simply how we are created to commune with God — our purest way to worship Him?You are allowed to enjoy your life. You are allowed to delight. And in doing so, you may be closer to God than you think.As we close out Season 2, this episode explores the idea of delighting in God through the ordinary, everyday moments of life. From personal reflections on spiritual transformation to the beauty of living “from glory to glory,” we talk about how the Holy Spirit gently reshapes us, not through pressure or performance, but through presence and communion — Jesus looking at you, and you looking at him.If you’ve ever wrestled with overthinking your faith, questioning what you enjoy, or wondering if it’s truly “good,” this conversation offers a fresh, biblical perspective on Christian joy, pleasure, and worship. Inspired by voices like Brother Lawrence and C. S. Lewis, we rediscover that every good and perfect gift—including joy—is grounded in God Himself.Scriptures Referenced:2 Corinthians 3:18Jeremiah 17:9Article Referenced — Context Matters: The Heart is Deceitful Above All Things by Knowable Word, Ryan Higginbottom Loving Lately:Paradise on HuluAllie Paige on SpotifyBeam hormone-balancing drink mixFollow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailYour mourning may be more holy than you realize.In this episode, we’re talking about mourning—what it is, what Scripture says about it, and why your grief is not a sign of weak faith, but an invitation into deeper intimacy with God. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re “doing faith wrong” because you’re struggling, sorrowful, or walking through loss, this conversation is for you.Together, we explore the truth that mourning is not the absence of faith—it can actually be an expression of it.You’ll hear:What the Bible says about grief, mourning, and lamentWhy Jesus Himself modeled sorrow, compassion, and honest emotionThe powerful meaning behind “blessed are those who mourn”How grief can become worship, honor, and connection with GodA personal reflection on loss, infertility, and finding Jesus as comforter in the middle of itPractical ways to walk through grief—and support others in it—with faith and presenceIf you’re in a season of loss, disappointment, or quiet heartbreak… you are not alone. God is not asking you to rush past your grief—He is meeting you in it.📖 Scriptures ReferencedMatthew 5:4 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+5%3A4&version=ESVRomans 12:15 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+12%3A15&version=ESVJames 4:8–9 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James+4%3A8-9&version=ESVJohn 11:35 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+11%3A35&version=ESV1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Thessalonians+4%3A13-18&version=ESVRevelation 21:4 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+21%3A4&version=ESVRevelation 7:17 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+7%3A17&version=ESVIsaiah 35:10 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+35%3A10&version=ESVJohn 16:33 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+16%3A33&version=ESVJonathan David and Melissa Helser Podcast on The Gift of SadnessFollow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailWhat do you do when someone copies you? In this episode, we’re diving into creativity, copying, comparison, and confidence—and how to be bold in your identity when you feel overlooked, behind, or unoriginal.You’ll learn how to:Handle being copied without losing confidenceStop comparing and trust your creative voiceShift from scarcity to abundance thinkingSee God as your true source of creativityYou are not running out of ideas. You are not boring or lazy if you don't have a "platform" or product to sell. You are a creative powerhouse RIGHT WHERE YOU ARE because you were created by THE Creator!S2E10: When Friendship Feels Like CompetitionFlorence GivenMaria BowlerCat PierceAmie McNeeStop Copying Me! A Guide to Creative ClarityFollow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailLife doesn’t always look as tidy, orderly, and calm as we want it to. Some seasons feel chaotic, overwhelming, or just plain messy. In this episode, we talk about why the mess of life might actually be where God is doing His deepest, most transformative work.If you’ve been feeling behind, discouraged, or like you should have it all together by now, this conversation is an invitation to stop fighting your season and start embracing the growth God may be doing right where you are. Sometimes the places that feel the most unfinished are the very places where God is growing deeper roots.Scriptures ReferencedProverbs 14:4Ecclesiastes 3:1James 1:2-4Colossians 3:23-242 Corinthians 12:9Loving LatelyCoffee + Crumbs - Expect the Mess (the worthy cost of hospitality)Book Fair for grown ups! Specialty tea :) Follow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we’re talking honestly about the fear of being misunderstood, the pressure to be liked by everyone, and the freedom that comes when we stop chasing validation from people and start living for God instead. Because the truth is—you cannot be liked by everyone at the same time.If you’ve ever struggled with people-pleasing, overthinking what others think of you, or feeling hurt by someone’s words or silence, this conversation is for you. We’ll talk about the difference between being considerate and allowing others’ opinions to control your sense of worth, why brave conversations matter in healthy relationships, and how to move from fear of judgment into real freedom.Together we’ll explore what Scripture says about working for the Lord rather than for people, learning to recognize healthy relationships, and trusting that God sees you—even when others misunderstand you.If you’re ready to stop begging for validation and start walking in confidence in who God made you to be, this episode is for you.Scripture Referenced:Colossians 3:23–24Follow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailThere is a difference between being stagnant and living rooted, although they may look similar from the outside. You can live a busy life and still be stagnant; you can be quiet and "unimpressive", yet deeply rooted. Lent is an invitation to take stock of your heart and root down deeper.In this episode, we explore what it means to live rooted (focused on digging into your life with intention) instead of reactive (focused on what others are doing and living with discontent) — especially during the Lenten season. Through Scripture, small spiritual practice, and practical encouragement, we talk about breaking cycles of spiritual apathy, embracing personal intentionality, and cultivating deep roots that sustain real life.If you’ve felt disconnected from God, stuck in routine faith, or hungry for deeper spiritual growth, this conversation will help you approach Lent with intention, clarity, and hope.Scriptures Referenced🌿 Jeremiah 17:7–8https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+17%3A7-8&version=ESV🌿Philippians 4:12-20https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians%204&version=NIV🌿Psalm 83 & 83https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2082&version=NIV🌿 Colossians 2:6–7https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians+2%3A6-7&version=ESV🌿 John 15:4–5https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+15%3A4-5&version=ESV🌿 Psalm 1:1–3https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+1%3A1-3&version=ESV🌿 Joel 2:12–13https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joel+2%3A12-13&version=ESV🌿 Hebrews 12:11https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+12%3A11&version=ESVFollow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailTW: Mentions Suicide, not suitable for childrenIn this episode, I share my personal journey with mental health and explore how anxiety, depression, therapy, and faith intersect in the Christian life.We look at biblical examples of emotional struggle — including Elijah’s burnout (1 Kings 19), David’s honest prayers, and Paul’s vulnerability (2 Corinthians 1:8) — and what they teach us about spiritual health, emotional wellness, and seeking support.This conversation is for Christians navigating mental health challenges, wondering how this fits into a life of faith.You can follow Jesus and care for your mental health. Healing and faith grow together!Scriptures ReferencedHebrews 4https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+4&version=ESVPsalm 34https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+34&version=ESVIsaiah 42https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+42&version=ESVPsalm 13https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+13&version=ESVPsalm 42https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+42&version=ESVLamentations 3https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Lamentations+3&version=ESV1 Kings 19https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Kings+19&version=ESVLoving Lately:Woah! That's Good Podcast with Sadie Robertson Huff episode about Botox & FillersThe HobbitIf you’re struggling or in crisis, you can call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or visit 988lifeline.org for free, confidential support.Follow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailCompetition in female friendships is rarely talked about—but many of us have felt it. The quiet comparison, subtle jealousy, and the sense that we’re in a race we never agreed to run.In this episode, I open up a grace-filled conversation about where competition in friendship comes from, how it shows up, and why it undermines safety and belonging. We’ll explore how to name jealousy without shame, release comparison, and move toward friendships marked by honesty, celebration, and secure identity.Because healthy friendship doesn’t grow from rivalry—it grows from wholeness.At the end, we'll have a series of journal prompts for you to dig a bit deeper in your own life and move to a place of greater healing, wholeness, and confidence.Romans 12:10 — Honor & loveRomans 12:15 — Shared joy and sorrowGalatians 5:26 — Warning against rivalry James 3:16 — Envy and disorder Proverbs 17:17 — A friend in adversity Ecclesiastes 4:9–12 — Mutual support and strength Proverbs 18:24 — A friend who sticks closer than a brother Proverbs 27:17 — Iron sharpens ironProverbs 27:6 — Faithful wounds of a friendProverbs 27:9 — Sweet counsel of a friend Proverbs 16:24 — Words like honey Matthew 18:15 — Going directly to one another 1 Corinthians 12:12–26 — Many parts, one body John 15:12–15 — Love and friendship defined by Jesus1 Samuel 18–20 — David & Jonathan Philippians 2:3–4 — Humility, going low Follow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I’m sharing what seasons of being financially stretched taught me about money, stability, and what it actually means to be wealthy. We talk about the difference between accumulation and peace, how scarcity can shape (and misshape) our relationship with finances, and why financial health is just as much about emotional and spiritual posture as it is about numbers.This isn’t a get-rich-quick conversation or a shame-filled budgeting lecture. It’s an honest reflection on learning contentment, redefining success, and choosing peace over pressure in a culture that constantly tells us more is better.If you’ve ever felt behind, anxious about money, or confused about what “enough” really looks like—this episode is for you.Scriptures:“Keep your life free from the love of money, and be content with what you have, for He has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’” (Hebrews 13:5)“Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble with it.” (Proverbs 15:16)“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost?” (Luke 14:28)"But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into thetreasury than all the others. " (Mark 12:41-44)“The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.” (Proverbs 21:20)“Give us this day our daily bread.” (Matthew 6:11)“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” (Colossians 3:23)Loving Lately:HerScan Breast UltrasoundOlipopElderberry SyrupFollow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailAlone time doesn’t have to feel selfish—it can be deeply restorative.In this episode, The Me Date, we explore how intentional solo time can renew your soul, strengthen your emotional health, and draw you closer to God. You’ll learn why alone time matters, how to personalize it based on your personality and season of life, and how to create a simple Me Date that actually restores you. Plus, Scripture and a short reflection to help you put it into practice.Scriptures Explored & Referenced:Luke 5:16“But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”🔗 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+5%3A16&version=NIVMark 1:35“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.”🔗 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+1%3A35&version=NIVMatthew 14:23“After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray.”🔗 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+14%3A23&version=NIVMatthew 11:28–29“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest…”🔗 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+11%3A28-29&version=NIVIsaiah 30:15“In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength.”🔗 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+30%3A15&version=NIVLoving Lately:House of David SeriesInside Bouncy House (Similar)LUSH Sticky Dates Body ScrubFollow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailWe're kicking off our Pillars of Life series with a talk about Spiritual Health, specifically when reading the Bible feels heavy, distant, or even anxiety-producing. If that's you, you are not broken — and you are not alone.In this honest episode, we talk about what to do when spiritual routines that once felt life-giving begin to feel hard, disingenuous, or overwhelming. If you’ve ever felt shame, doubt, or tension around your quiet time, your faith, or the Church, this conversation is for you.We explore the cyclical nature of faith, why seasons of doubt and questioning are not failures but invitations, and what it looks like to approach your spiritual life with curiosity instead of condemnation. We'll talk about what I call “spiritual maintenance and renovation,” and a deeply personal story about how trauma, church hurt, and nervous-system responses can shape the way we experience Scripture.Most of all, this episode is a reminder that Jesus is not afraid of your questions — and He meets doubt with compassion, patience, and love.If your faith feels tired, tender, or in need of repair, you are invited to take a deep breath, step inside, and walk through it together.Scriptures Explored:2 Timothy 3:16Psalm 119:11Genesis 32John 20:24–29Mark 9:24Matthew 11:2–6Philippians 2:12Psalm 4:4Hebrews 4:12Isaiah 55:11Psalm 19:1Other Sources:Deconstructing Faith: Why Americans Are Leaving the ChurchNew York Times, "The Largest and Fastest Religious Shift In America Is Well Underway"Pew Research CenterLoving Lately:The Big A## Calendar SystemFollow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailI’ve been thrifting since I was little — sometimes out of necessity, but mostly out of love. What started as a practical choice became a meaningful, joy-filled way to bring sustainability, whimsy, and personal style into my life and home.In this episode, I’m sharing the simple practices I’ve learned to make thrifting easier, more intentional, and genuinely fun. Whether you’re new to thrifting or looking for a fresh, grace-filled approach, these tips will help you shop more sustainably and create a style that feels good.Accounts mentioned:@consciously_curated_home@sadiesthriftyfinds@[email protected]@untoldstoriesthriftProducts mentioned:My favorite cycle tracking appYoutube Ambiance vids... try this one, this one, and this one!One of my favorite coffee table booksFollow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailEssentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeownSteal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative by Austin KleonCultivate What Matters Powersheets Goal-Setting SystemFollow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailAt one week before Christmas, come take some breaths of fresh air with me. This time is for YOU to enjoy, too! Let's go softly and let the joy, celebration, feasting, and thankfulness expand and spill over into these last days of the year. No need to go hard, exhaust, overextend, and come out on the other end depleted, resentful, or disassociated. In this episode I discuss some thoughts about the 12 Days of Christmas (guess what? it's NOT the 12 days leading up to Christmas!), Epiphany, taking the glorious, Jesus-bought permission to grow, evolve, and be on a journey of change as individuals. THAT takes bravery!I also celebrate that this year, the Let's Talk Life podcast went from dreamy idea to a realized pursuit of creativity, connection, and community. THANK YOU for being here!ILYSM!Mary's Magnificat Infared Heating PadAdvent BlocksOutfit Formula Instagram (@mamaindenim)Nancy Myers-Inspired PlaylistsMY BEACH BOYS CHRISTMAS COVER!Follow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailLet's shift from pressure to purpose in holiday gifting. This episode is an invitation to take a breather from the frantic mind-chatter of gift-giving, and to become more present-minded and embodied in the process of showing our people how much we appreciate them.In gift-giving, we RECEIVE the gift of pausing, cultivating gratitude, and love-gushing the people God has put in our lives. After all, what's better than feeling like someone thought of you and wanted to give you some joy??Self-care Instagram ReelTULA moisturizerIndie Lee Botanical Boosting OilGua Sha setScalp Massaging CombUnder-eye MasksFollow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan Mail(Trigger Warning: mentions eating disorders, body dysmorphia, abuse -- not suitable for children)In this episode I talk about a recent trip to Great Wolf Lodge, and take a little trip into body image, especially as a postpartum mom of 4. I discuss the common experience of women: that our worth gets wrapped up in our body's appearance. But what I know to be true in this very moment is that your body is worthy RIGHT NOW -- worthy of fun, kindness, honor, and love.Let's move through the next few weeks with softness, especially in a time of year in which there is a lot of noise about food, diets, calories, and size. I bless you with a little extra heaping side of grace for ourselves and others.Every Moment Holy: Writers & PoetsTULA 'Spresso Energizing Eye BalmLaurel Denise Nancy PlannerLaurel Denise Planner Add-onsLaurel Denise Planner StickersFollow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailHi! Let's collectively take a big, deep breath as we enter into all things holiday. In this episode, I share 5 tips on how to enjoy an *actually* simpler, actually happy holiday. I love you!Gel Pens .5mmQuince Boyfriend SweaterCurtain Sparkle LightsChobani Pumkin Spice Latte CreamerFollow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailIn this special finale episode, my husband John and I recount the birth of our newest child: Shiloh Jerusalem Ray. We are so grateful that her birth went smoothly and that she's here with us now! Keep in mind that this is a birth story, so there are some references to details that may be unsuitable for younger ears (or if you're squeamish!) TW: references to previous infertility and lossFollow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailLet's just hang out and talk, friends! Imagine sitting with me at my dining table, hot bevy and snacks in hand. I want to hear how you're *really* doing, and I want to tell you how things have been here, too! In this episode, I'll go first by sharing how I've really been, changes in our family, how the end of pregnancy is going, and what to expect out of the podcast in the coming weeks and months! I want to hear from you, too, so click the link above that says "Send us a text" and that will come straight to me! How have you been? What have you been thinking about or mulling over in your mind or spirit? What are some topics you want to dig into in the next season of Let's Talk Life?Links:Promptly Journals Childhood HistoryFollow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailAs I prepare to welcome baby #4 earthside, my mind has been running through all things birth prep! I have some tried & true ways I equip myself, my home, & the people around me to have the smoothest birth and postpartum possible within my power. But truly? It's all about surrender!Products mentioned:The Bradley MethodThe Birth PartnerIna May's Guide to ChildbirthThe First 40 DaysThe Positive Birth Company (online courses)Freya Surge Timer AppThe Christian Hypnobirthing AppPrenatal VitaminBirth Spiky BallLabor CombPostpartum Mood Support SupplementAfterease (for postpartum cramps)Disposable undiesSitz BathSitz Bath Spray (Herbal Perineal Spray w/witch hazel)Halo Swaddle WrapIf you have any other questions about our favorite baby products, text me using the link above!Follow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailThis is a special one. It's a love letter from me, to anyone who is finding themselves in a season of waiting. Whether it's waiting for a spouse, a new job, a child, or a breakthrough of any kind, it can feel hard, lonely, and even devoid of God's voice. I share some of my own story of waiting -- unexplained infertility for 5 years -- along with the things I learned and the testimony of the miraculous breakthrough. Yes, I cry in this one!You aren't alone, and God hasn't left you behind. Come on in and get some encouragement and balm for your soul.TW: Infertility, Miscarriage, LossScriptures Explored:Isaiah 40:31Proverbs 13:12Hebrews 111 Samuel 1Follow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailToday's episode is FULL of the most practical tips for when you encounter spiritual warfare. Spiritual warfare can look like a lot of different things -- don't be scared or think too hard, just do your best to be prepared! When you're living life with Jesus, you can expect it to happen, and no, it doesn't make you weird.Scriptures to explore:John 16:33, 1 Peter 5:8, Ephesians 6, Isaiah 41:10, Matthew 8:28-30, 1 John 4:4, Acts 3:16, Mark 5, Matthew 4, Acts 4:31, John 20:22, John 14:26, Acts 2:38, Psalm 51:10, Hebrews 10:22, Psalm 122:6-9, Romans 8:26, Galatians 4:6, John 14:16, Romans 8:26, Acts 19:6, 1 Corinthians 12Follow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we talk about the concept of nurturing ourselves like a mother. What does this look like? What if you don't have a good example of what mothering looks like, or you have no time, energy, or money to allot yourself day to day? Or what if you've been taught that taking good care of yourself (especially in a loving, maternal sort of way) is frivolous, or somehow, anti-Christian? Can we experience God as a mothering presence? Let's talk!Scriptures Explored:3 John 1:21 Corinthians 6:19-20Ephesians 5:28-29Mark 12:31Proverbs 19:8 1 Peter 5:7Links:Venessa Heartfelt: Soulful RechargeLoving Lately:100% White Cotton NightgownMad Hippie SkincareBon Bon Sour Blackberry FishNugget Oak Naturals Tallow Skin ProductsFollow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailIt's hard to let go of things, and as it is with our physical "stuff," so it is with the stuff we hold onto in our minds, hearts, and emotions. Today we're talking through what happens when we clean out the closet of our souls.  What have you been holding onto that just doesn't fit you anymore? It doesn't mean you don't appreciate it, or think of it fondly, but it's time to do the hard work of saying thank you and cleaning it out. What this creates is a life that feels crafted for who we are now and who we are aspiring to be, without the extra weight of the past.Scriptures Explored:Hebrews 12:1-3Matthew 10Mark 62 Corinthians 5:17Romans 12:2Ephesians 4:22-24Links:Marie Kondo's The Life-changing Magic of Tidying UpLoving Lately:New Haim Album (not suitable for kids)Calah MikalNutpods creamerCometeer coffee podsCooling clothsFollow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailLet's talk about the GO! I've felt the "go" in me since I was little -- that drive to go somewhere new and experience something exciting. Whether near or far, with a huge budget or just living normal life in a different location, getting away will nourish your soul, challenge your comfort zone, and shore up what you believe about God, yourself, and others. Go for it!Follow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailIs your schedule overburdened? What does margin time practically look like, and realistically, HOW do we experience more of it amongst our demanding, full lives? We hear a lot a balancing your work and your rest/recreation, but I want to talk about the holy practice of Margin Time. Yes, the time that is blocked off for the sake of space, breathing room, and availability for God, yourself, and the people in your life. We talk about Jesus' example of margin -- he was unhurried and unscheduled, and lived in a constant flow of connecting with his father. His ministry was inside of his margin time, and he often said no. Loving Lately:Lanell GrantHoly Ghost Record Club playlistsFair Play CardsMorning Pages via Artist’s Way Trying to know what is for dinner by 9:30am (via @confidentmom)Links:Melissa Campbell’s Article Creating Margin via Experience Revival Jordan Raynor’s Article The Margin In Jesus’ ScheduleFollow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailDo you choose a word or intention for the year? Most years, somewhere in between Christmas and the end of January, I do -- sometimes it's a word that comes out of an intentional time of seeking, sometimes it's just a vibe I've been feeling and I run with it. I usually take my birthday in June to check in with my word, see how it's going, and adjust if necessary.  This year, I felt that this would be a Year of Celebration, a very welcome change after several years of working through heavy things. I take a look at my past year (being 37) and honor all the things worth celebrating, take a beat to note what didn't work so well, and look forward to what's coming.What is your word of the year? What has been worth celebrating in your life so far this year? What hasn't worked so well? You don't have to wait for the new year... you can pick a word/intention NOW. Let me know what it is!Scriptures:Proverbs 17:21 - A cheerful heart is good medicine,    but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.Proverbs 31:25 She is clothed with strength and dignity;    she can laugh at the days to come.Links:Essentialism BookTea Time Discipleship@hostinyourhomeFair Play BookLoving Lately, Celebration Edition:Dollar Tree Coffee Table Books, specifically How To Celebrate Everything by Jenny RosenstrachThrifted Decor and tableware to elevate the occasion on a budgetPig Pickin CakeFollow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!Follow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailWhat have you learned about friendship in the last year? Whether the thought brings up happy memories you want to recreate, or a tinge of hurt or sadness, just know -- you aren't alone if friendship in your 20's, 30's, and beyond feels a bit challenging. I asked my IRL friends to chime in with their lessons from the last year, and share some hard-earned and life-worn lessons of my own. Love you!1) Real friendship takes time, intention, & work.2) You can only experience true friendship to the extent that you are willing to be open, seen, known as you truly are, & inconvenienced.3) There are different friends for different seasons of life, & different types of friends that can be like a mosaic making up the community you need right now (The "5 Friends" rule isn't best applied in adulthood! You are more of a patchwork quilt of everyone you've ever loved and been impacted by, whether they're still in your life or not.)4) Celebrate bids for connection, whether you have capacity to follow through or not right now. Someone reaching out is a gift!Scriptures:Proverbs 17:17Galatians 6:21 Thessalonions 5:11Proverbs 27:17Ecclesiaties 4:9-10LinksMy "Feelin French" playlist on SpotifyDuolingoFrench kids Eat Everything Bringing Up BébéFollow me on Substack!Follow me on Instagram!Follow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailWhether you know it or not, you're building something with your life RIGHT NOW. It might be something that has the markers of "success" we tend to look for in our society, or it might be something small and quiet, yet nonetheless powerful, meaningful, and worthy. Name what it is you are building! Own it, don't look to the left or to the right to compare what you're building with what someone else is, and keep going. You're doing great.Scriptures:Psalm 127:1 Proverbs 4:24-27 Links:Come Sit by my Garden Lyrics/PoemHomemade Strawberry LemonadeA comparable pitcher for summerOld Navy Fit & Flare Midi DressOld Navy Square-Neck Linen TankOld Navy High-Waisted Faux-Wrap Linen-Blend SkortOld Navy High-Waisted Linen-Blend Super Wide-Leg PantsPamut Daphne Dress in CitronSimply Grey Life Women's Linen Dress OLIVIA in Red Checks (use code ALLYOUNEEDISLESS for 10% off)Join me on Substack!Follow me on Instagram!Follow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailSctiptures:Romans 8 (especially verses 5-16)Links:At Home with Sally PodcastThe Lifegiving Home BookThe Big Boo Cast10 Things to Tell You - Laura Tremaine PodcastElizabeth Elliot PodcastJoin me on Substack!Follow me on Instagram!Follow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!

Send us Fan MailScriptures Explored:1 Corinthians 9 - it's about endurance and the REAL prize, salvation and living your life with God!Hebrews 12 - less about our perfection and more about showing up to the race and staying IN it with Jesus with HIS perfection covering our humanityLinksIris Ministries Harvest SchoolI Went to the Woods poemAll Things Lilly AnnBlueberry Coffee Syrup RecipeMeat Schmoosher Phone Box (idea!)The Tech-Wise Family bookJoin me on Substack!Follow me on Instagram!Follow me on Instagram!Join me on Substack!