Notes From July
Finding Beauty Along the Journey
It’s hard to believe another month has already passed.
As I reflect on this past month, I realize it wasn’t just a road trip. It was a reminder that God often does His greatest work along the way, not just when we finally reach the destination. Looking back, I see so many reasons to be thankful. There was laughter, breathtaking scenery, unexpected adventures, quiet moments of reflection, and memories our family will cherish for years to come.
I’m so thankful we chose to drive instead of fly because some of our favorite memories were made along the way.
We packed up the car and headed to Wyoming, excited to experience parts of the country we had never seen before. It was a long drive, but every mile was worth it.
I have to admit, though I am not a fan of high cliffs or winding mountain roads! Heights have never been my thing. My husband thought it was funny to tease me while driving through the mountains, and I kept saying, “This isn’t funny!”
The whole time, I could almost hear his mom’s voice saying, “Jeffrey, don’t do that! My grandbabies are in the car!” Thinking about her made me smile and somehow brought me comfort. I kept reminding my husband what she would have said if she had been riding with us.
The mountain views took my breath away. I never realized just how beautiful the other side of the country is. More than once, I found myself simply staring out the window, amazed by God’s creation.
Once we arrived in Wyoming, we visited some of the places where my husband’s parents grew up. Seeing wild horses roaming freely was something I’ll never forget. And, of course, I somehow managed to step on a cactus because I wasn’t wearing the right shoes. Needless to say, that was an experience I won’t forget anytime soon!
We stayed in the small town of Lovell, Wyoming. It felt like everyone knew everyone. As visitors, I couldn’t help but laugh because it seemed like people immediately noticed we weren’t from there. It was such a welcoming little town.
We also spent time in Cody, Wyoming. Everywhere we went, people greeted us with kindness and warm smiles. In a world that often feels rushed, those simple moments reminded me how much kindness can brighten someone’s day.
Arriving in Wyoming was one of the highlights of our trip. We traveled there to honor my husband’s mother and celebrate her life, but we were also able to visit the places that meant so much to her and hear stories about her childhood.
Walking through the towns she once called home, I found myself imagining what life must have been like for her growing up there. It gave me a deeper appreciation for the memories she carried and the life she lived. In many ways, it felt like we were getting to know a little more of her through the places she loved.
It reminded me that even though the people we love may no longer be with us, the memories they leave behind continue to shape our lives in beautiful ways.
As our time in Wyoming came to an end, we began the long drive home. Along the way, we stopped at Yellowstone and Mount Rushmore. Both were incredible to see in person, and learning more about their history made the visit even more memorable.
During that drive home, I found myself thinking about how quickly life can change. Some moments make us laugh, others bring tears, and sometimes they happen on the very same road. Yet through it all, God continues to remind me that His goodness can be found where we least expect it.
Before I knew it, July had arrived, and with it came another unexpected blessing.
My second book arrived earlier than expected! It was originally scheduled to be released on July 15, but I received my author copy ahead of time. Opening that box was such an emotional moment.
As I held my second book in my hands, I couldn’t stop smiling.
Growing up, I rarely felt proud of myself. I often questioned whether I was enough and found it difficult to celebrate my accomplishments. While publishing my first book was an incredible milestone, this second book touched my heart in a completely different way.
This book is about healing.
Holding my second book reminded me of just how faithful God has been throughout my healing journey. Every page represents lessons learned, tears cried, prayers whispered, and hope that refused to give up. In that moment, I realized just how far God has brought me.
My prayer is that this book encourages anyone walking through their own season of healing. I hope it reminds you that healing doesn’t happen overnight, but with God’s grace, it is possible. No matter what you’re facing, you are never alone.
As I look back on this past month, I’m reminded that life is full of unexpected turns. Some roads are difficult, and others are filled with breathtaking beauty. More often than not, they’re both part of the same journey.
This trip reminded me to keep looking for God’s goodness in every season. Even when life doesn’t go the way we planned, He is still faithful. He meets us in the joy, the grief, the quiet moments, and the unexpected blessings.
If this month taught me anything, it’s this: don’t rush through life looking only for the destination. Some of God’s sweetest blessings are found along the way. Sometimes they’re hidden in a mountain view, a shared laugh in the car, an old family story, or even the dream you’ve been praying for finally resting in your hands.
As we celebrate the Fourth of July, I pray you and your family stay safe, make wonderful memories together, and enjoy every moment.
Thank you for walking this journey with me. Your encouragement, your prayers, and your support mean more than you’ll ever know. I’m so grateful you’re here.
May God bless you and your family always.
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts
Colossians 3:15
Blessings,
Mariatu Boyce
If you enjoyed this month's issue, please share with your friends and family. Thank you.
