30 Years Later: Showing Up, Choosing Peace & Gratitude for the Journey

There’s something about this season that has me feeling all the feelings—gratitude, nostalgia, excitement, and maybe just a little disbelief at how quickly time moves.

This past week, we celebrated Liam’s birthday.

I still can’t believe my first grandbaby is getting so big.

Watching him grow is such a joy, and every time he wraps his little arms around me and calls me “Grama,” I’m reminded of just how much of a gift he is.

He’s the one who first gave me the title of Grama—and that’s a role I cherish more than words can say.

I blinked and he’s suddenly not so little anymore, and while part of me wants to freeze time, the other part is just so proud of the little person he’s becoming.

I also learned that apparently, I’m actually old enough to be invited to my 30 Year High School Reunion which is kind of hilarious, considering I didn’t technically graduate.

I left school halfway through sophomore year because I got pregnant (and never returned because my Benefactor decided I didn’t deserve her charity any longer, after getting pregnant).

While most of my classmates were worrying about finals and prom dates, I was learning how to change diapers and keep a tiny human alive.

Not quite the high school experience they put in the yearbook… but definitely an education.

So getting this invite feels a little like being called back to a party I Irish-exited in 1993.

Part of me wants to show up like, “Hey everyone! I didn’t get a diploma, but I did raise an awesome human and figure out life the hard way”.

Does that count as extra credit?”

Honestly, it’s kind of touching. I may not have walked across that stage, but it’s nice to know I wasn’t forgotten.

Thinking I might just show up—me and the amazing adult kid I raised—because honestly, that’s my real graduation story.

(Thankful for the time I did have at that school with these girls)

And while I’m feeling all the sentimental things, I’m also deep in VBS prep mode!

This year, we’re hosting Wonder Junction, a wild west-themed adventure where kids will discover the greatest treasure of all—Jesus.

We’re turning our space into a full western town with cactuses, sunflowers, trains, mine shafts, and more—and I could really use some help gathering supplies!

I’ve been on the hunt for decorations and supplies, and let’s just say my Amazon wish list is getting a workout.

And more than anything, we’re asking for your prayers—for the hearts of the kids who’ll walk through our doors, and for the volunteers pouring out their time and love to make it all happen.

Local Metro Detroit Friends:

Y’all are invited to send your kids to Wonder Junction!

Grab your hats and boots and head on down to our Vacation Bible School, where kids will discover the greatest treasure of all—Jesus!

There’s nothing better than learning to praise His name, but first, they need to know who He is and what He’s done for them.

That’s exactly what Wonder Junction is all about—a place filled with fun, faith, and adventure.

This event is completely free, but we do ask that you register in advance so we can plan activities, snacks, and supplies for each child.

We’re offering two sessions of VBS this year. Drop-off begins at 6:00 PM, and pick-up is at 8:15 PM.

Go here to see all nine locations, dates and time available.

We can’t wait to welcome your kiddos to Wonder Junction—where hearts are changed and memories are made!

Weekly Wins

This week’s win didn’t come from checking something off my to-do list or finally fixing a glitch—it came from admitting that I couldn’t do it all on my own.

After several weeks of battling some super stubborn tech issues armed only with Google, coffee, and my trusty AI sidekick (shoutout to ChatGPT), I finally waved the white flag and called in my developer.

Favorite Find

So here’s the story… I spotted these vintage dishes at Goodwill last week and, believe it or not, I walked away without them.

I thought they were beautiful, but I wasn’t totally sure if they were just pretty or actually something special.

Later that day, I looked them up online—and sure enough, they were a real treasure.

Not just charming, but valuable too!

The next afternoon we had a pair of North Face winter boots we’d bought for $25 that we decided to return (that’s a whole other story ).

It was already around 2 PM when we headed back, and I figured there was no way those dishes would still be there.

Saturday afternoon? I assumed the early-morning thrifters would’ve swooped them up for sure.

But guess what? They were still there.

Still neatly stacked, waiting.

I put them in my cart so fast it would’ve made your head spin. Almost a full set, just missing the mugs—all for $24.99.

I whispered a little thank-you prayer right there in the aisle, because it truly felt like a small but sweet blessing.

Thrifting magic is real, friends. Keep your eyes open—and your carts ready.

What I’m Making/Watching/Reading/Listening to:

This is what I got when I asked “Hey Kinsley, wanna take a picture with Grama?“

This season of life is stretching me in the best ways—reminding me how far I’ve come, how much I’ve been given, and how sweet it is to keep saying yes to the moments that matter most.