Hello, sweet friends in Christ,
It’s been a little while since I last shared an update here, in all honesty it’s been a while since I posted anywhere. Yesterday, I wrote a similar version of this on my Substack site and I wanted to share my updates here as well.
A Season of Surrender and Trust
Life has been full—full of busyness, full of change, and full of opportunities to lean a little harder on Jesus. March came in like a lion and April seems to be roaring right behind it. But even in the midst of the storms—both literal and personal—I am reminded that God is not only present but faithful in every season.
“The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him.” – Nahum 1:7
The Writing Journey: Where Hope Meets Healing
I’ve been deep in the trenches working on my book. I had hoped to have the first draft wrapped up by now and off to an editor, but God had other plans. Writing about my journey—about disabilities, uncertainty, grief, faith, and the miracles I’ve witnessed—sometimes feels like rubbing salt in old wounds. It’s not easy to revisit those tender places. But through it all, I hear the gentle whisper of the Lord reminding me that He is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18).
Each revision brings a fresh wave of emotion, yet also a deeper sense of peace. I hold onto Philippians 4:7, which promises that “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” I want this book to reflect His goodness and offer encouragement to those who may be walking similar paths.
Even in the delays, I see His hand at work.
Jeremiah 29:11 has been my anchor: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a future and a hope.”
And so, I keep writing, praying, and trusting that His timing is perfect.
A Health Scare and a Healing Praise
Another reason I’ve been quiet lately is due to some health concerns that cropped up in February. I went in for a routine mammogram, expecting the usual follow-up imaging, since that’s been my pattern over the years. But this time, the doctors found a sizable mass. Initially, they suggested waiting and rechecking later, but I began noticing some changes that raised red flags for me.
After a biopsy, praise the Lord—no cancer! Hallelujah! But there were still some concerning markers, so surgery was recommended to remove the mass for further testing. Throughout the whole process, I had an overwhelming sense of peace that could only come from the Lord. “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” – Isaiah 26:3
Recovery gave me more time to write and reflect. It also reminded me that our bodies may falter, but our God never does. He is Jehovah Rapha—the God who heals.
Welcoming a New (Furry) Family Member
In the midst of everything, I decided the best way to ensure my plate stayed overflowing was… to get a puppy. Yes, I might be slightly touched in the head, but my heart was in the right place! You may remember my stories about Sally, our spirited apricot poodle who once caused me to tumble headfirst down the stairs.
Sally has matured into a lovely companion—still energetic and reactive at times, but so gentle and kind, especially when our dear little Katie, our senior Chihuahua, was nearing the end of her life. After Katie’s passing, I felt that both Sally and I needed a new little soul to love.
Enter Harry Bear.
Harry is a Cavapoo—part Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and part poodle—and all heart. He’s named after George Bailey’s younger brother in It’s A Wonderful Life, the one who became the war hero. And “Bear” because, well, he looks like a stuffed animal and cuddles like one, too.
As I chase after this teething, nipping, peeing bundle of fluff, I’m reminded of Proverbs 17:22: “A cheerful heart is good medicine.” And laughter, even the kind that comes with puppy chaos, is sometimes the best balm for a soul weathering life’s storms.
The Storms Outside and the Shelter Within
Living in Tennessee means you grow used to spring storms—but this season has been something else. Tornado warnings, lightning like a light show, wind fierce enough to topple our trees and nonstop rain in buckets. One of the weather gals in Knoxville where I grew up would call this “Frog Strangling” weather. We lost a few trees last week, but by God’s grace, our home was protected. Others in Tennessee and across the country weren’t so fortunate. My heart aches for those who have lost homes, cars, and even their loved ones in recent storms and floods.
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” – Psalm 46:1
Please join me in praying for those affected:
Heavenly Father,
We lift up every family devastated by recent storms. Bring comfort to those who grieve, healing to those who are hurt, and provision to those who have lost so much. May they feel Your presence in the hands and feet of those who serve and support them. Help us to remain faithful in prayer, joyful in hope, and patient in affliction, just as Your Word calls us to be in Romans 12:12.In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
My Final Thoughts
Life doesn’t always go as planned. Puppies chew on things they shouldn’t, surgeries pop up unexpectedly, and storms—both literal and figurative—remind us how little control we really have. But one thing remains: God is with us. Through every trial, every joy, every revision of our plans.
Thank you for walking this journey with me. Your prayers, encouragement, and support mean the world. I’ll be back soon with more updates—hopefully with less rain and fewer puppy accidents on the carpet.
Until then, stay safe, trust His timing, and remember this:
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.” – Lamentations 3:22-23
With gratitude and grace,
GeorgeAnn
