First retreat of the year. First retreat as a mom. I had been looking forward to this retreat, time to be still with God, to fellowship, to seek His face alongside other believers and friends. One moment that really stayed with me was watching my daughter make friends. Especially a 15-month-old who had been excited to meet her. Sitting on the ground together, playing side by side. Just observing that connection warmed my heart. This retreat also gently taught me something important: The way I used to experience retreats is different now. Most of my time was spent in the bedroom, nursing her and helping her sleep because she realized she was in a new environment. I missed nighttime worship. I missed early morning sessions. I was mostly being a present, attentive mom. But I still found little ways to stay connected. While in the room with Yaya, I would call my little sister and put my AirPods in so I could listen to the conversations happening downstairs. It wasn’t the same as being physically there but it reminded me that I was still part of it. Still connected. Still growing. It’s for a season. And I’m embracing it. Even with the cold and the snow all around us, my heart was warm from the love, the fellowship, and the joy I witnessed among my brothers and sisters in Christ. The chalet was beautiful, and the short nature walk we took was peaceful. I don’t know what 2026 has in store. But I do know this: God has already mapped out the way. And as long as I’m walking in the path He has set for me, I’ll be okay.