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This year was only our second holiday season in our new Indiana home, but before settling in for Thanksgiving, we packed our bags and headed west.
After three years of traveling and another year of living in Indiana, returning to California feels like slipping back into the familiar.
Warm weather, family meals, grandparents’ hugs, and moments of quiet gratitude all wrapped together into a trip that reminded me what the holidays are really about: faith, family, and God’s steady protection.
Palm Springs Sunshine & Family Meals
Leaving Fort Wayne, with the usual chaos of O’Hare thrown in for good measure, we landed in Palm Springs to a perfect 70-degree breeze and that iconic open-air airport.
My sister scooped us up, and we headed straight to Sherman's Deli & Bakery. (I love the food, but California prices? Let’s just say Indiana has spoiled me.)
We drove into the high desert to stay with Scott’s family, full of good food and game nights.
The next day we visited my grandparents. They cooked us a special meal and had Bible verses ready to read aloud together. My grandma made ornaments using photos from our time in Africa, plus one of the child they sponsor.
Those small, heartfelt touches warmed my heart. Simple acts of love preach to my soul louder than any sermon.
Celebrating Family & Holiday Traditions
One of my favorite moments was watching Summer spend the day with her RaeMa as they cooked every Thanksgiving dish, laughing in the kitchen, and finishing the night with a cousin sleepover.
Seeing the three older cousins together reminded me that traditions don’t need to be elaborate to be meaningful.
Our first Thanksgiving was smaller than usual this year, but rich in all the ways that matter. From ages six to ninety, every single person took a moment to proclaim Christ.
It made me realize again that the power of the holiday is found in who we worship, not just the traditions we keep.
Laguna Beach Adventures & God’s Protection
The day after Thanksgiving, we drove to Laguna Beach, one of my favorite places in California.
Within minutes of arriving, we had a terrifying moment: my nephew got partially trapped in the sand, under water. My sister reacted instantly when she saw his red hat sinking, and pulled him out safely. My heart pounded for a good hour afterward.
But that moment reminded me of this truth from Psalm 18:2:
“The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer… in whom I take refuge.”
I saw that verse lived out in real time. The rest of the day was pure gift—football on the sand, cliff walks, a good packed lunch, great coffee (Better Buzz Coffee), and Dolce Gelato in the sun.
God protected us, then gave us space to breathe, laugh, and enjoy His creation.
College Visits & Family Milestones
The rest of the trip was a whirlwind of meaningful moments. We toured California Baptist University with Summer and her cousin—both of them lit up walking the campus.
We also were blessed to celebrate Scott’s grandma’s 90th birthday as we soaked in stories from a woman whose faith has held steady for over half a century.
My sister introduced me to Lingo to see if I am really insulin resistant, and we laughed our way through haircuts and play time with the littles. That night we had steak tacos at my parents’ house and celebrated December birthdays. It was simple and perfect.
*Today is Scott's Birthday (Dec. 2), show him some love!
Second Thanksgiving in the Mountains & Journey Home
Our trip wrapped up with a second Thanksgiving at my aunt and uncle’s beautiful home in the mountains. Perfect weather, great food, and family conversations that felt like a warm blanket around the soul.
My parents drove us back to Palm Springs for an early flight, and we landed in Indiana just before the snowstorm rolled in.
God’s timing is always better than ours.
Giving Tuesday: A Chance to Make a Lasting Difference
As we returned home overflowing with gratitude, I kept thinking about our extended family in Malawi—including the teachers at St. Patricia’s Private Secondary School, who pour their hearts into students with very little support.
For Giving Tuesday, we’re inviting friends and readers to join us in sponsoring a teacher.
The monthly cost: 400,000 MWK (about $235 USD depending on exchange rate).
This gift helps stabilize salaries, reduce turnover, and strengthen education that changes entire villages.
If you’d like to bless a teacher at St. Patricia’s this season, message us—we’d love to connect you.
you can also visit givingbasics.org and put "sponsor a teacher" in the memo.Reflections & Takeaways
This trip reminded me of a few truths I want to carry into the Christmas season:
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People are precious. Slow down and make room for connection.
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Faith anchors us. In the scary moments and the sweet ones, God is present and protective.
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Simplicity brings joy. The best memories come from presence, not perfection.
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Intentionality matters. Small acts of love and consistency shape generations.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of family and the joy of shared moments. Thank You for Your protection, from the unexpected scares to the daily blessings we often overlook. Help us live with gratitude, love boldly, give generously, and keep our hearts rooted in Your presence. May our holidays reflect Your goodness and grace.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
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I love to read your writings, Brooke — so heartfelt, picturesque and eloquent. May the Lord continue to bless your family. ♥️
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