Why this? Why now?
There are three primary reasons why I’ve started this blog:
I know the value of community and connection—moving 15 times will do that to a person! This is a space where we can gather for that connection. Of course, I hope you will be encouraged by what I write, but even more than that, I want you to know that you’re not alone in your struggles and triumphs! My hope is that you find community and connection through interacting with myself and others through this blog
I have long been passionate about seeing people become healed and whole in their bodies and soul. I have been on this journey myself for decades and can vouch for the necessity of this work. Jesus came to bind up the brokenhearted and set the captives free, yet many (most?) (all?) of us barely recognize that we’re stuck. It’s time to get unstuck, friends!
This outlet allows me to reach more people with the message I carry. Jesus came to restore what was lost (Matt 18:11), and it’s my heart’s desire to help facilitate that mission. While I love personal interaction and one-on-one time with people, my passion for seeing all people thriving in their bodies and souls has trumped my desire to work primarily with individuals.
Why Me?
The short answer is that I was a broken mess (albeit one that worked hard to hide it) and know what it’s like to experience restoration. Beyond that, I have been helping people on their own journeys of restoration for almost forty years. I’m uniquely equipped with experience/education that allows me to help the whole person - not just the physical or spiritual or emotional but all of it. I have an undergraduate degree in dietetics, have been certified as a fitness instructor and personal trainer, and have two master’s degrees: one in counseling and the other in divinity. This might sound like a lot, but that was never my plan. I truly believe God has ordained my steps. (As a side note, I never saw the call to go to seminary coming, which is a really good thing. I’m pretty sure I would have been like Jonah, running to book the next ticket to Tarshish! See Jonah 1:3).
How does this work?
It’s simple. Subscribe to this blog to receive it in your inbox on Thursdays each week. I encourage you to read it and observe what comes up in you. What I mean by that is notice your thoughts and notice if you feel anything come up in your body. Try to be curious rather than judgemental. Some posts might cause you to feel joy and inspiration, but that may not always be the case. Your body will give you clues about something God might be putting His finger on. Even if your reaction is to get angry and decide I don’t know what I’m writing about, I encourage you to sit with that reaction and ask God what is going on. I pray that the Lord will take you further into a place of wholeness and healing each week. Know that He is faithful to complete the work He started in you! I’d love for you to engage with me (and others) by leaving comments, but if you prefer to observe from afar, that’s okay too!
“And I am certain that God who began a good work within you, will continue his work until when it is finally finished on the day when Jesus Christ returns.” (Phil 1:6)
Fun Facts about Me!
I’m a Jersey girl but have always believed that home is wherever God takes you.
I’ve lived in two countries outside America (England and India) and ten different states.
For the last two years, “home” has been a 28ft Airstream travel trailer. You haven’t lived until you’ve lived life in approximately 216 sq. ft.!
I love being outside—walking, biking, hiking—and firmly believe that healing happens in nature.
I love food—reading about it, cooking it, eating it—and firmly believe that healing happens through food and fellowship.
I love to laugh (like, “I can’t breathe” kind of laughter) and dance. (Yes, I do own tap shoes).
I love chocolate and shoes. Despite my 216 sq. ft. of living space, there are currently 8 bars of chocolate in my cupboard and 20 pairs of shoes crammed in. 🙄
I am married to my wonderful husband, Jeff, for almost 37 years.
I have four incredible (grown) kids…two that I raised (Kylie and Mike) and two that married into our family (Anthony and Abby). I LOVE being a momma.
Please share if you know someone who might like to be part of this community!
Congratulations Jeanie!! I love your purpose and your blog. I especially like your # 1 - understanding and appreciating the value of community and connection.
I am so looking foward to following your future posts. :)
Congratulations Jeanie! I'm looking forward to learning and growing with the community.