Encouragement

The Story Behind My Son’s Name: A Resurrection Reminder

April 9, 2025 by Quin Leave a Comment

Two years ago, I was preparing to welcome a new life into the world. My due date was April 9th—Easter Sunday. The timing alone felt like a divine appointment after going through a season of grief. As I walked through that pregnancy, I kept reflecting on the significance of Easter: resurrection, renewal, and hope.

During that season, a particular Bible verse stood out to me. It mentioned a colt—a young donkey—tied up, waiting. It was from the story of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem:

“Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them to Me.”
—Matthew 21:2 (NKJV)

That verse stirred something in me. The colt wasn’t just a detail—it was part of a prophecy being fulfilled. It symbolized obedience, purpose, and being chosen for something sacred. Even in its youth, the colt carried the King.

The word colt stayed with me, knowing we were looking for a name that started with the letter “C”. I prayed on it, and eventually the name Colter came to mind. It felt strong and gentle all at once. We didn’t know prior to his birth if we’d have a little girl or boy, and we never did settle on a girl’s name

Colt was a name we considered 6 years prior for another child. In my heart, I knew I was meant to have a son named Colt, but when the day came to name that child, Colt didn’t feel right. For a couple of years, I wondered why I had such a strong tie to the name that we never used. I thought maybe someday it would fall to a future grandchild, or a puppy- ha!, since I thought I’d never get to carry another child in my womb.

I praise God that I did get to know the depths of pregnancy and nurturing a newborn again.

This name carries the memory of Easter, of God’s promises, hope after hurt, and of the quiet, powerful ways He uses even the smallest among us for His glory.

So, when my baby boy arrived— 3 days before Easter just as God knew He would, in the most beautiful way, wrapped in love, joy, and peace—I knew without a doubt: his name would be Colter (his brothers names end in “er”.

I’m reminded of that Easter Sunday when we took our 3-day-old baby boy and family to a church so packed full that we watched the service from the church’s basement on a projector. The hope of resurrection, and the tender ways God weaves meaning into our lives.

Colter’s name is more than just a name—it’s a testimony.

If you’re in a season of waiting or walking through something hard, I want to encourage you: hold on to hope. Just like that colt, seemingly unnoticed and tied up, God sees you. He has a purpose for your life that is greater than you can imagine. He can bring beauty out of waiting, joy from sorrow, and life from what feels broken. Easter reminds us that with God, nothing and no one, is ever truly lost—only being prepared for something greater.

Jesus Loves You (and He Hears You!)

March 13, 2025 by Quin Leave a Comment

“Jesus Loves You.”

Those three little words, whispered from a tiny voice, stopped me in my tracks this morning. Sweet little Colter was standing at the hallway gate – you know, the one we put up to keep this little one out of the homeschool while his older siblings do their work? And wouldn’t you know it, the gate was open.

Now, on the other side of that gate was a land of pure toddler temptation. The computer, the markers, the toys, the books, the math manipulatives, the board games – a whole world of fun just waiting to be explored! I could practically see the wheels turning in his little head. He knew he wasn’t supposed to go in there. We tell him, many times a week, that the homeschool room is for when we’re all working together, he isn’t to go alone.

And then, I heard it. “Jesus Loves You.” He said it to himself, almost like a little reminder. And just like that, he turned around and toddled back to me.

It was such a simple moment, but it filled my momma heart to overflowing.

As homeschool moms, we pour so much into our kids. We teach them about God, about right and wrong, about listening to that still, small voice inside.!

We pray that those seeds we plant will take root and grow. Sometimes, in the midst of the chaos and sibling squabbling, the laundry, the housework, and the never-ending lessons we get to teach, we wonder if it’s really sinking in.

Then, you see a moment like this. A moment where a little boy, faced with temptation, chooses to listen to that gentle nudge. A moment where the words “Jesus Loves You” become a guiding light.

It’s a reminder that even when we can’t see it, God is working in their hearts.

The lessons we teach and the prayers we pray are not falling on deaf ears. They’re being stored up, like treasures, ready to be called upon when needed.

It makes me think of the Holy Spirit, that gentle guide who whispers to us, reminding us of God’s love and leading us down the right path. Just like Colter heard that little whisper, our children hear it too, and it gives me such hope! Hope that even when they’re grown and facing bigger challenges, they’ll remember those simple truths we’ve taught them. Hope that they’ll always turn to Jesus, even when the world is pulling them in another direction.

It’s a reminder to me, too, to keep planting those seeds. To keep speaking truth and love into their lives.

You never know when a little “Jesus Loves You” will make all the difference. And isn’t that what we all want, to raise children who love God and walk in His ways?

What little moments have reminded you that God is at work in your children’s hearts? I’d love to hear about them in the comments!

April 14th, 2024

April 14, 2024 by Quin Leave a Comment

Our youngest turned one last weekend.

Here I am, just reflecting on how the amount of energy poured into the first year of nurturing a sweet little babe can feel so isolating. Even the 5th time around!

Friendships have been hard for me the past year and a half-ish, and especially more so the last 4 months after someone pointed out many things they didn’t like about me, and I decided to work on it. Growth can be good, but also hard!

Feelings of being pitied, used, unloved, and disconnected can creep in easily if I’m not careful to keep them in check.

I’m holding onto the love for my husband and kids like a lifeline. These are the relationships that matter above all else.

I know that my heart is at home, where it belongs. These days of cooking, baking, cleaning, and teaching a big family are the good days that I prayed for.

I hadn’t thought to pray that I could maintain friendships at the same time! Oh, how I miss the days before social media when friends and I gathered often and talked about things that mattered deeply in our hearts, and things that didn’t, like home decor and celebrity news.

Friends, it’s okay to admit when relationships feel strained or distant.
It’s a journey, not a destination, right? Ongoing improvement and some deep self-reflection are valuable and necessary.

I have learned that I cannot be everything to everyone, and that’s okay. I don’t thing we were made to be, despite what social media can make us feel. I have intentionally curated a more simple lifestyle that doesn’t involve calendar clutter and faux relationships.

I encourage you to cut the crap, zero in on your dreams, and start living the life you long for, the life God planned for you.

Pray for clarity in where you belong.

There is a tribe for you.

Meanwhile, let’s embrace the bumps and work towards deeper connections. ❤️

#NavigatingLove #FamilyFirst #EmbraceTheJourney

I’m sending *virtual hugs* to all the mommas out there pouring their hearts out to care for their families and homes. We’re not alone! #solidarity

Remembering Lincoln Joseph McCormick

June 27, 2022 by Quin Leave a Comment

My dear nephew, Lincoln Joseph McCormick, was the sweetest, smartest, kindest, bravest, 8-year-old boy to ever walk this Earth.

He was an amazing son, the most incredible brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and a compassionate friend and classmate. He was loved beyond measure and will continue to be celebrated daily by those of us that hold him close in our hearts.

Following a tragic accident at his home on the evening of May 29th, 2022 we trust that Lincoln is now in the arms of Jesus.

For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39ESV

I have such a deep gratitude in my heart for both this online community and our local community. I appreciate the way you all have shown up for our family while we have been begun this journey or grieving well.

After the celebration of Lincoln’s life on June 6th, 2022 our family and our community of friends all gathered outside on the church sidewalk hugging, crying, clinging to each other for comfort, and giving Lincoln one last shout of “Weeee looooove youuuuu!!” (A family tradition we do when we leave each other’s homes). Then his earthly body was driven away.

I stood back and looked at the crowd gathered across the front of the church. Incredible!

If you were there you may have seen me back up and snap a picture of all of you, our tribe, in the moment that we needed you most. Thank you for being there.

You haven’t seen that picture anywhere online, because I wanted that picture for us.

I printed it out and tucked it into an envelope to remind my brother and sister-in-law in the coming years that Lincoln’s life was grand and his impact was profound. Whenever we need that reminder, I know we can reach out to one of you in that photo.

You guys, my nephew was so incredible in so many ways! I have heard countless stories of how he touched people in this community and I can’t help but smile at how well he lived his life.

God blessed us with 8 1/2 years with Lincoln. As his aunt, would I have liked more? Absolutely! Yet, I am finding a way in my head and heart to trust God’s plan.

I know the story of his life and his good character will keep impacting this world. Our family will never forget his bravery, courage, and the way he got so amped up when telling a good story! Lincoln could captivate an audience just as his namesake/great-grandfather could.

I want to remind his parents (my brother and sister-in-law), and myself, of the way we felt loved and supported on our toughest days.

Over the past several weeks so many people in our community have shared stories that have touched my heart like never before. Some have been about Lincoln, some about their own grief and loss, and the memories and emotions they have been flooded with while watching us grieve.

Some friendly faces at the funeral and visitation hadn’t met Lincoln but were there this past week because they love one of us.

We love you, too. Thank you.

I pray that from this day forward we will all remember what it means to “just show up”.

Even when we feel awkward and don’t think we have the right words, showing up and being present matters. I can assure you I have forgotten many of the specific words that were said to me, but I remember the way people have made me feel.

I have a greater appreciation of what the word “community” truly means.

Life is precious and fragile. Please, be gentle with yourself and others. Live well, go do things that make you happy, and take more pictures.

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.
Psalm 116:15 ESV

When you think of my nephew, Lincoln Joseph McCormick, I hope you envision him nestled safely in the arms of Jesus, smiling. I hope his name and any memory you have of him make YOU smile.

Wife + Momma

May 2, 2022 by Quin Leave a Comment

There isn’t an easy way for me to adequately describe the depth of the joy and honor that I feel to be the wife and mother of this family. The love I have for this tribe is overwhelmingly beautiful, intense, and never-ending.

Gathering around the table for homemade apple pie (my grandma’s recipe) will always hold a special place in my heart.

I imagine the days ahead when my children might make this same treat for their families, and the heart behind the tradition continues to deepen with each generation.

I wonder how they will tell the stories of their childhood. Will they remember the love and dedication we all had for each other? Will they forget the little spats and disappointments?

Will they connect with their families over food, recreation, or something else? Will meals around the table be a priority for them, as we’ve made it here?

Will they willingly work with their hands to provide nourishment for themselves and the tribe around them?

When they fall in love, will it be forever?

I’m excited for the future, while still fully embracing the present moments that are here and now.

No matter how life goes on this side of heaven, I know this to be true, God is always good. 💕

Wishing Did Nothing: I Made Pizza

April 19, 2022 by Quin Leave a Comment

It’s been about a year and a half since the beginning of the roughest patch of my life.

Both physically and mentally, I lost it all in October of 2020. I’ve come to grips with this. I wish it never had happened, but WISHING that did NOTHING in the way of healing from it.

The mental strength came back quicker, thanks to the prayers and support from family and friends, and multiple phone calls a day to my parents.

Putting in the hard work through counseling so I could to face the scary thoughts that filled my head in the middle of the night and every morning when my eyes opened and my heart began to race was hands down worth the time and effort.

The physical strength is still a work in progress. I don’t want to just be restored to where I was, I want to be stronger than before.

This will take time.

Getting food from the basement freezer and bringing it up to cook requires a break to catch my breath, and I hate that.

I still struggle to open jars (nothing new), cook a meal, eat the meal, and have energy to clean up. Most days I just can’t.

Yesterday I could though, and I will celebrate that.

I was able to make homemade gluten-free + dairy-free pizza for my tribe AND clean it up. I moved furniture with help from my teen son, read books, did a ton of other things, and snuggled with my youngest son at bedtime, something I haven’t done in 1.5 years.

Praise God for the simple and the victorious moments of life.

If you can’t run forward, crawl. If you can’t celebrate a huge win, celebrate the small ones.

In the end, it’s going to be okay.

My endgame is in the arms of Jesus.

#CelebrateAbsolutelyEverything

Hey There, 2022. I See You.

December 31, 2021 by Quin Leave a Comment

Welcome, Sweet Friend.

First of all, I’m so honored to connect with you in this space. While I occasionally do want to ditch social media from time to time, I’m also not ready to give up on the relationships we’ve made here. I enjoy this space and the joy it brings to my life.

I’m invested in you. I hope that comes out as genuine care, and not creepy. You are important to me. I value the time you spend on the content I create.

I’m just as grateful for the new faces here as I am for those that have stuck with me since my password-protected blog was called Lucky Ducks back in 2006 and the password was “baked beans”. Yep, it happened.

I want to give you a peek at what you’ll see from me in 2022, yet I’m not even sure what the year will bring. I’m grateful that I don’t have to have that all figured out today. God already knows what is to come.

I do know I will be putting a focus on gentle restoration of the mind and body. No sales or memberships, just me, sharing how Jesus redeemed my physical body and mind from a near-death experience.

I’ll be sharing what I’ve invested in for my health, sharing why and how we home educate our children, and whatever else the Lord puts on my heart to present to you here. Of course, there will be plenty of food mentioned, because I’m a momma of 4 and I handle 21 meals a week for 6 gluten-free and mostly dairy free people.

This is and always will be a competition-free zone. I want to be your cheerleader and encourage you in the areas you need it most.

What is on your mind as we head into a new year?

2022 First Quarter Focus Word: CONNECTION

Two Days Post Christmas

December 27, 2021 by Quin Leave a Comment

It is two days post Christmas. I’m laying in my bed, sad. This is the first time in many years that I have given in the commercialization of the holiday and while the shopping was fun, it doesn’t feel good today.

I feel physically sick at how emotional I am over this.

I didn’t get to go to the candlelit Christmas Eve service at church and feel the community around me. I didn’t sit in a church pew and feel the comforting weight of hearing the story of our Savior’s birth.

Rather I watched parts of the service on my phone while waiting in line for the car wash bay to open up on the unseasonably warm December day, then arrived later than we expected at my husband’s family Christmas.

The Christmas gifts we gave were investments into health, a sauna for Chad and I to share, clothing, audiobooks and players, paint and canvases, upgrading things that we decided last year no longer served us well (toxic nail polish, etc.) A TV and a couch for our family room, to allow for greater crowds to gather more comfortably in our home.

Small toys that were intentionally picked for the way they spark creativity and free thinking.

Then, after all the gifts were opened, I surprised my husband with a Playstation 5. This may sound fun, but it does not align with our family values. I spent too much on it, and we had already talked about it and decided it wasn’t best for our family.

We’ve had a similar video game system with hundreds of dollars invested into games, and I donated it when it became a problem for our family.

I knew in my heart this wasn’t a gift that would serve us, and I gave it anyway because I liked the wow factor.

If you have one and it works for you or your family, that’s great. I’m glad you can set healthy boundaries and feel it serves you.

To me, it’s invasive. It’s another thing to pull attention away from things that are more productive and bring value to our lives.

It’s the fact that I went against my husband’s wishes, and I’m disappointed in myself.

It’s not just that device weighing on me. It’s all the things that are out of place in our home because we opened new gifts that don’t have their resting places in our home yet.

We are off routine. I ate a whole candy bar over the weekend… twice (too much sugar makes me weepy), and I still don’t have the gifts figured out for our next family Christmas gathering in 2 days.

That’s all.

I’m fine, but I’d like to feel better than that.

Tea & Crumpets, or Whatever

March 18, 2016 by Quin Leave a Comment

It’s a Tea & crumpets kind of day. Well okay, here it’s more like water and donuts.

I just wanted to give you another visual of my favorite soapbox, which is: “Do what works for you”.

God created us each unique with our own gifts, talents, and interests.

You do you, I’ll do me. Together we’ll praise Jesus.

In short, this little saying means to me that although we are different, that doesn’t need to separate us. We can all praise Jesus for His perfect design within our lives and the gift of friendship despite diversities.

I have a wide community of homeschooling mom friends both in real life, and online. I love each of them for their uniqueness and can learn something from every one of them.

Many of my HS momma friends do a tea time with their children and I really truly admire it. It makes me smile to see the pictures they post of the read aloud they’re doing, and the fancy tea cups they’re sipping from.

I don’t beat myself up feeling envious or like I need to do better because I’m serving store bought donuts on the dishes I bought for myself at Target. I’m okay with serving water when I’m not in the mood to fix tea (yes, I do know how easy it is to make).

I have a teenager now (along with an 8yr old and a toddler), and I understand that this sort of contentment I feel has come with age and experience, and above all, from Jesus.

I’ve had to pray for God to help my heart and mind find places where I can feel satisfied and content.

It’s my prayer that each of you may also feel satisfied wherever you are, and that you’d only feel the nudge to self-reflect and change if it comes from God alone. Not from your Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest feeds, but only from Christ.

Be blessed my friends, and have a beautiful weekend!

You Can’t Give it if You Don’t Have it- So Get It!

January 22, 2016 by Quin Leave a Comment

As I got ready for bed one night this week I walked past this sight, in the middle of my living room floor. Our cat, who we call #slightlybetterbrownie on social media, was checking out the tracks left out by my kiddos.

Normally I would’ve told the kids to clean them up before bed, but I was away that evening so I couldn’t suggest a 10 second tidy. My husband, Mr. Awesome, is the laid-back parent who ignites their creativity and doesn’t mind the little messes. We’re a good balance that way.

These trains from IKEA have entertained the creativity and curiosity of my children for years and years. They couldn’t imagine parting with the whole set, yet they offer pieces to their friends, when they show an interest in them. I always giggle and think, what could their friends do with just a handful of pieces and one train? I admire the generosity of my children anyway.

For some reason the other night I just stopped and stared at these trains, thinking of how they remind me of my relationship with Jesus.

I LOVE Jesus, and can’t imagine Him not being in my life. I mean, I am more than willing to offer up what I know to help others, to actively seek to gain knowledge that I feel Him leading me to so I can help His people. I will go to bed worn out time and time again from a full day of serving His people, and praying over His people. I will cry big heavy tears of joy or sorrow and give all that I can when He calls me to.

I can do this because I am His, and He is mine. I am renewed and refreshed in Him and through Him each day.

A couple times a year we visit IKEA and we almost always end up coming home with a new set of tracks. They’re affordable and I imagine they’ll last a life time.

THAT is how my kids can keep offering out their tracks, because they are being replenished.

In order for me to keep offering out myself, I have to be replenished too.

Some of the ways I do this are through attending church, reading scripture from my Bible or my phone (I love the YouVersion Bible app’s home screen widgets and their reading plans), reading inspiring blogs, listening to friends who encourage me, and through physical rest.

Two final thoughts: 1. If a stash of something isn’t replenished it will run out. 2. Someone else may be replenishing your stash and you might not even know it.

Disclosure