When I boarded the plane for Kenya, I wasn't exactly sure what to expect. I knew we would be serving in local communities, but I didn't imagine how deeply this trip would impact my heart.

After being home for several days, I'm still processing everything we experienced. It was fulfilling, rewarding, and challenging at times. There were moments of overwhelming joy, of deep sadness, and so many reminders of God's faithfulness.

One thing that continues to stay with me is the joy of the Kenyan people. We met people who've endured hardships that we can hardly imagine, yet they welcomed us with genuine smiles, kindness, and love. One statement that was shared with us continues to echo in my mind:

"We smile, but inour hearts we're suffering."

Those words have stuck with me because behind every smile was a story: stories of loss, struggle, resilience, and unwavering faith. For so many, their relationship with God isn't just part of their life -it's what carries them through each day.

One of my greatest joys was watching my daughter and the other high school students on our team. Seeing them laugh with the kids, worship with strangers, and serve with open hearts filled me with gratitude. We all stepped outside of our comfort zones, built relationships despite language barriers, and discovered that love is a universal language -memories I'll treasure forever.

Coming home has given me a reminder of the blessings we often overlook.

Clean water. Reliable electricity. Grocery stores filled with food. Comfortable beds. Access to healthcare. Time with family.

These things can become such a part of our everyday life that we forget they're actual blessings.

Our church family at Summit made this trip extra special. I experienced generosity, encouragement, teamwork, and servant leadership throughout our time together. I'm so thankful to have shared this experience with such an amazing group of people.

We had the opportunity to end our time with a short safari. Standing in the middle of God's creation, watching elephants, giraffes, lions, and zebras roam freely, in their natural habitat, was the perfect reminder of the beauty of His creation.

As I've reflected on everything after being home, I had an “ah-ha” moment.

I spend my days helping women improve their health: building strength, fueling their bodies, navigating mid-life changes and creating habits that help them feel their best.

But this trip reminded me that living well is about SO much more than nutrition and exercise.

Purpose. Connection.Serving others. Gratitude. Faith. Joy.

Those are the things that truly nourish usfrom the inside out.

Thank you to everyone who prayed for us, encouraged us, and supported this mission. 

Erokamano, Kenya. Thank you for welcoming us, teaching us, and reminding me what it truly means to live well.