It feels like life has been moving at full speed lately, the kind of season where every time I blink, another milestone has passed. I’ve been meaning to sit down and share what’s been going on with our family, but between work, school, travel, and all the transitions, time has had a way of slipping right through my fingers.
This has been a year of big changes and beautiful chaos.
Lucas officially left for the Army, and we couldn’t be prouder. Watching him step into this new chapter with courage and determination was such a proud and bittersweet moment. He’s always had that quiet strength, and now he’s putting it to incredible use.
We also welcomed Parker and Brandi back to town, which has been such a gift. Having everyone closer again has made family dinners, quick visits, and random drop-ins that much sweeter, those everyday moments you realize you’ve missed.
In the middle of it all, we took an epic 8-day road trip that stretched across 10 states! It was the kind of adventure that fills your heart for months afterward, long car rides, spontaneous detours, laughter, and late-night talks. We all completely fell in love with Colorado’s beauty, the mountains, the air, the sense of peace that just wraps around you there. It truly stole our hearts.
Del left for college to study nursing, and while it’s hard watching another one fly the nest, I couldn’t be more proud. She’s got such a giving heart, and I know she’s going to make an incredible nurse.
Allie started high school and joined the performance cheer team! She’s balancing school, practices, and teenage life with so much grace, it’s been amazing watching her confidence bloom.
AJ officially started preschool at home this year, and it’s been such a fun (and occasionally chaotic) adventure. Every day he surprises me with what he’s learning, and with Henry growing right alongside him, our days are full of laughter, lessons, and plenty of noise.
Through all these changes, I keep coming back to gratitude. Every new chapter, whether it’s sending a child off to serve, welcoming others back home, or watching the youngest ones grow, reminds me that family never stays still. It grows, stretches, and takes on new shapes, but the love always stays the same.
This season has also been a creative one, I officially named my children’s book series The Heart of Family, with the tagline:
“Every family’s heart beats differently, but love sounds the same.”
That phrase feels especially true right now. Even when life takes us all in different directions, love keeps us connected, no matter where our hearts call home.
Thanks for following along with our family’s story, for cheering us on, and for being part of this journey with us. Here’s to change, growth, and the beautiful mess of family life.
With love,
Juliet 💛
The Anker Homestead 