From Headaches, Upset Stomachs to Hallelujahs! 🙌🐾🌈

Last night wasn’t exactly restful. I was tossing, turning, and waking up with one of those stubborn headaches (not a migraine, just the kind that likes to hang around). And to top it off, I’ve been sick to my stomach all day long. Not exactly the “ready to conquer the world” start I had in mind! But it was Homecoming at church, so the alarm went off early and it was time to get cooking!

Kevin, God bless this man, was my full partner in the kitchen, helping me from start to finish to get the food prepped, packed, loaded, and delivered. I’m so thankful for a husband who jumps right in to help carry the load.

Church was amazing. I’ve missed some services lately for family stuff and health reasons, so being there for Homecoming was extra sweet. And y’all, we had the group Recognized with us today. They were such a blessing! Their music just filled the room with praise, and I could feel God’s presence from the first note to the last “amen.”

And oh my goodness, the Homecoming meal was delicious. I was so proud of our ladies! They’re not just good cooks… maybe I should say chefs. The food was Ramsey-quality ... and you know that’s saying something! 🍽️

After service, I got a visit from Michael and his “pup,” Linky Boy—who, at 72 pounds, is absolutely convinced he’s a lap dog. We laughed, we visited, and we both agreed he’s too big to be sitting in my chair with me… but we let him anyway.

I tried to rest this afternoon, but my living room “yard sale” pile kept calling my name. So, I tackled some pricing and packing. Progress is progress, right? Then, I headed to my 7 PM class—headache still tagging along, but my spirit encouraged.

And in the middle of it all, I got to work on something close to my heart—helping my friend’s ministry, Heartfelt Earrings by Rita-Marie. She creates Rainbow Boxes for grieving women who are walking through the first painful weeks or months after losing a baby. These boxes are filled with personalized, inspirational letters from women who care and understand that kind of loss. She also has Chasing Rainbow Boxes for women struggling through infertility—because no one should walk those seasons alone. 🌈 If you feel led to help, message me. Volunteers are always needed and every heart that says “yes” makes a difference.

Today may not have been my easiest day physically, but spiritually? I saw God in so many places—in the hands that helped me, in the voices lifted in worship, in a table overflowing with blessings, in a big goofy dog who made me laugh, and in the privilege of helping bring comfort to women in their hardest days.

💌 Here’s your reminder: even on the “not at my best” days, God’s goodness is still all around us—you just have to look for it.

—Melissa 🐾 (Jackson & Whiskie send their love and purrs)