present

In the rush of daily responsibilities, it’s all too easy to get caught up in the busyness of life—answering emails, checking notifications, and running through never-ending to-do lists. But in those overwhelming moments, I’ve found that the best remedy isn’t pushing harder; it’s stepping back. Sometimes, the most meaningful thing I can do is close my laptop, set down my phone, and simply be present.

For me, that means soaking in the moments with my boys. Whether it’s listening to my oldest share his latest book adventure or watching my youngest bring his wild imagination to life, their presence is a constant reminder of what truly matters. They are my greatest joy, my grounding force with Christ, and an ever-present source of comfort in life’s unexpected chapters.

I am grateful for the opportunities God places before me, but above all, I am thankful for my two blessings He has entrusted to me—my sons. As we journey through this third month of 2025, I encourage you to pause and appreciate the blessings right in front of you. May we never be too busy to see the love, joy, and beauty that God has already placed in our lives.

Val Perez