🍓Why I Love Strawberry Shortcake 🍓

I liked Strawberry Shortcake when I was little, but I never imagined I'd enjoy her this much years later. Recently, I started collecting Strawberry Shortcake dolls, books, and other fun collectibles, and it's been such a fun hobby. Every time I find something new to add to my collection, it brings back happy childhood memories.
One of the things I love most about Strawberry Shortcake is how sweet and simple everything is. Her world is full of colorful friends, adorable pets, and fun adventures. It's such a cheerful place that always makes me smile.
I also love the message behind the stories. Strawberry Shortcake is kind, caring, and always willing to help others. In a world where there's so much negativity online, it's refreshing to watch something that reminds us to be kind and treat people with love and respect.
Collecting Strawberry Shortcake has also reminded me that you're never too old to enjoy the things that made you happy as a kid. Some believe we have to leave those things behind as we grow up, but I don't think that's true at all. If something brings you joy and makes you smile, there's nothing wrong with enjoying it.
For me, Strawberry Shortcake isn't just about collecting cute things. It's about remembering happy moments from childhood and enjoying something that still brings a little extra happiness into my life today.
So yes... I'm an adult who loves Strawberry Shortcake, and I'm perfectly okay with that! 🍓
What about you? Is there something you loved as a kid that you've started enjoying again? I'd love to hear about it in the comments!

Book Review: Part of Your World by Karen Witemeyer

I recently finished reading Part of Your World by Karen Witemeyer, and I really enjoyed it!
If you've read any of Karen Witemeyer's books before, you know she has a way of creating memorable characters, heartfelt moments, and stories that point readers toward faith. This book was no exception.
One of the things I appreciated most was how the story blended adventure and romance while keeping Christ at the center. The characters weren't perfect, and that's what made them feel real. Throughout the story, they had to learn about trusting God, showing grace, and finding courage even when life didn't go as planned.
I also loved the fairy tale inspiration woven throughout the book. It was fun to recognize little details that reminded me of a familiar story while still feeling fresh and original. Karen Witemeyer has a talent for taking classic ideas and giving them a unique twist.
The pacing kept me turning the pages, and I found myself wanting to know what would happen next. There were moments that made me smile, moments that made me laugh, and plenty of scenes that reminded me of God's faithfulness.
One thing I especially enjoy about Karen Witemeyer's books is that they're clean reads. I can pick one up knowing I'll get an entertaining story without having to worry about inappropriate content. That's something I really appreciate as a reader.
I LOVE Ariel from The Little Mermaid! So this book easily became my FAVORITE Karen Witemeyer book.
Overall, I thought Part of Your World was an enjoyable Christian historical romance with lovable characters, a meaningful message, and plenty of heart. If you're looking for a lighthearted story that combines faith, adventure, and a touch of fairy tale charm, I'd definitely recommend giving this one a try.
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Have you read Part of Your World? If so, I'd love to hear what you thought! Just be careful not to post any spoilers in the comments for readers who haven't picked it up yet.

Christians should never make sin feel welcome

Somewhere along the way, many churches and Christians have confused loving sinners with making sin feel comfortable.

Jesus welcomed people to repent and follow Him—but He never welcomed their sin. Everywhere Jesus went, His message was clear:

“From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
—Matthew 4:17 (KJV)

He also said:

“I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”
—Luke 5:32 (KJV)

His love drew people to Him, 

His holiness convicted them. 

Even to the woman caught in adultery 

He said:

”…Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.”
—John 8:11 (KJV)

Today, many Christians seem more concerned about making unbelievers feel comfortable than proclaiming the truth that can save them. In an effort to avoid offending anyone, some “Christians” often soften God’s commands, overlook sin, or act as though holiness is optional.

The Bible says:

“But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.”
—1 Peter 1:15–16 (KJV)

It also says:

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind…”
—Romans 12:2 (KJV)

When an unbeliever enters a gathering of God’s people, they should encounter something different from the world.

They should see lives transformed by Christ, hear conversations centered on Him, and witness a people who love righteousness more than acceptance.

The Bible tells us:

“And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.”
—Ephesians 5:11 (KJV)

That doesn’t mean we are rude, hateful, or self-righteous. We should genuinely love every person. But true love doesn’t make sin feel at home. True love points people to repentance because their eternity is at stake.

The church is not called to entertain the world or imitate its values. We are called to be:

“A chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.”
—1 Peter 2:9 (KJV)

We are also commanded:

“Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing…”
—2 Corinthians 6:17 (KJV)

If our lives look no different from those who reject Christ, what are we inviting them to?

Jesus called His followers:

“Ye are the salt of the earth…” (Matthew 5:13)

and

“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.”
—Matthew 5:14 (KJV)

Light does not blend into darkness—it exposes it. Salt does not become like what it seasons—it changes it.

May we never trade holiness for popularity or truth for acceptance. Let us love sinners enough to tell them about the Savior, but never love the approval of the sinners that we make sin feel welcome among God’s people.

How to Know God’s Will

Here's a devotion on how to know God's will. 

Key Verse (KJV)

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
— Proverbs 3:5–6

Devotion

One of the questions every Christian asks at some point is, “How do I know God’s will?” We often look for a sign, a voice, or a dramatic answer. Yet throughout Scripture, God first calls us to walk closely with Him before revealing the next step.

God’s will begins with knowing Him.

The Bible tells us that His will is for us to believe in Christ (John 6:40), to live holy lives (1 Thessalonians 4:3), to give thanks in every circumstance (1 Thessalonians 5:18), to love others (John 13:34–35), and to grow into the likeness of Jesus (Romans 8:29). Before we seek God’s direction for the future, we should ask if we are obeying what He has already made clear in His Word.

Many times we want God to show us step ten while we are unwilling to take step one. Yet Scripture teaches that God guides those who trust Him daily. Just as a shepherd leads his sheep one step at a time, our Heavenly Father often reveals His will gradually as we faithfully follow Him.

When facing a decision, ask yourself:

• Does this agree with Scripture?
• Will it bring glory to God?
• Does it help me become more like Christ?
• Am I seeking God’s wisdom through prayer?
• Am I trusting the Lord or simply following my own desires?

God will never lead us to do something that contradicts His Word. His guidance is always consistent with His character.

Sometimes God’s answer is yes. Sometimes it is no. Sometimes it is wait. Waiting is not evidence that God has forgotten us. Often, He is preparing our hearts before He opens the next door.

The safest place to be is not where life is easiest, but where God’s will is being done. We may not always understand His plans, but we can always trust His heart.

As we delight in Him, seek Him through His Word, and walk in obedience, we can rest in the promise that He will faithfully direct our paths.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for loving me enough to guide my life. Help me to trust You instead of leaning on my own understanding. Give me a heart that delights in obeying Your Word, even when I cannot see what lies ahead. Teach me to wait patiently, to pray faithfully, and to follow wherever You lead. Let my greatest desire be not simply to know Your will, but to know You more deeply. Direct my steps so that my life brings glory to Jesus Christ.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Additional Scriptures to Study

• Proverbs 3:5–6
• Psalm 37:4–5
• Romans 12:1–2
• James 1:5
• Psalm 119:105
• Colossians 1:9–10
• Micah 6:8

• Ephesians 6:10–18

May the Lord give you wisdom as you seek Him. Often, His will becomes clearer not through extraordinary signs, but through a life that is continually surrendered to Him and grounded in His Word.

Returning to Alaska – Summer 2026

After visiting Alaska in the winter of 2018, I often wondered what it would be like during the summer. Eight years later, in the summer of 2026, I finally had the opportunity to return.
One of the highlights of the trip was visiting Independence Mine. Walking through the old buildings and learning about its history was fascinating, and the mountain views were absolutely breathtaking. We also visited Reflection Lake, where the water reflected the mountains so perfectly that it looked like a painting.

While we were in Palmer, we stopped by the Friday Fling. It was fun walking through the booths, seeing local vendors. 

It was interesting to experience Alaska in two completely different seasons. 

My first visit showed me the beauty of a snowy Alaskan winter, while my second visit revealed its green landscapes, rushing rivers, and long summer days. 

Both trips were unforgettable, each offering a unique perspective on one of God's most beautiful creations.

Looking back, I'm thankful that I had the opportunity to experience Alaska in both winter and summer. Each trip gave me memories I'll always treasure, and both reminded me of God's incredible power, creativity, and the beauty of His creation.

Most of all, I'm thankful for the time I was able to spend with my family. 

It was a gift from God that I will always cherish. If I ever have the chance to return again, I know there will still be more to discover.

Watch my Alaska YouTube video