Today was one of those unexpectedly beautiful warm days that makes you stop, breathe, and remember that life still has sweetness tucked into ordinary moments. December has been doing what December does, but today? Today felt like a soft pause. Warm enough for shorts, a T-shirt, and a little sun on my skin — warm enough for my spirit to settle. While I was outside soaking it all in, a butterfly flew so close to my face that I literally felt the air from its wings. And listen…

This book journey hasn’t been easy—setbacks, doubts, and plenty of “Lord, help me” moments—but God has carried me through it all. From unexpected blessings to the love of family and friends, I’m learning to stay the course with faith, gratitude, and a little humor. The journey isn’t over, but I trust the best is yet to come.

“Whew chile…” That’s how most of my stories start. Not just because it’s the name of my book—but because that phrase holds the weight of...