Footprints Through Fall

Footprints Through the Fall

One of my favorite poems has always been Footprints in the Sand—that image of a single set of footprints on the beach, paired with the author’s desperate question: “Lord, where were You when I needed You most?” Only to learn that in those moments, God wasn’t distant at all—He was carrying them.

Lately, I’ve been living that poem.

October has come in like a whirlwind. I started a new job. My mom fell, broke her arm, and has been in the hospital and rehab. At church, I joined the handbell choir. I was in band over 40 years ago, so now I’m dusting off long-forgotten music skills.

The days are getting shorter, the air is cooler, pumpkins are popping up on porches, and the trees are quietly slipping into their golden farewell before the leaves fall.

And at the end of each day, my body isn’t just tired—it’s exhausted.   In those moments, I catch myself asking God a very honest question:    You promised not to give me more than I can handle… so how much do You think I can handle, exactly?

But then I remember another promise:

“Come to me, all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

Life doesn’t pause when we’re overwhelmed. Yet even in the chaos, God remains in control. He gives us what we need—often before we realize we needed it at all. Sometimes it looks like the wisdom of a doctor. Or help from our village. Or a quiet Sunday afternoon nap. Or simply the beauty of a crisp fall morning that reminds us we’re still being held.

Soon the trees will be bare, and we’ll shift our gaze toward Thanksgiving. But I don’t have to wait for a holiday to be grateful. I can already say this with full certainty: God has carried me through these past few weeks, and I trust Him to keep walking—sometimes beside me, sometimes ahead of me, and sometimes with me cradled in His arms, leaving just one set of footprints in the sand.

Scripture Reminder:

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28

A Season of Change, A Season of Trust

A Season of Change, A Season of Trust

Fall has always been a season of beauty and transformation. The air grows cooler, the days grow shorter, and the trees paint the world with vibrant shades of gold, crimson, and amber. Every year, creation reminds us of God’s perfect design—there is indeed “a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens” (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

This fall feels especially like a season of change for me. After 15 years, my job is being eliminated due to budget reductions. It’s not easy to say goodbye to something that has been such a steady part of my life. Change often brings both pain and possibility, and I am holding both in my heart. At the same time, our church is preparing to say farewell to our pastor, who has accepted an amazing opportunity elsewhere. He is a wonderful shepherd who has poured so much love, wisdom, and truth into our congregation, and he will be deeply missed.

Yet, in the midst of change, God gently reminds me that His plans always prevail. Life on earth may shift and surprise us, but nothing surprises Him. He already knows the road ahead. His Word promises: “For I know the plans I have for you…plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11).

So, while this season comes with some bittersweet goodbyes, I also look forward to what’s ahead: time to create new crafty designs with joy, the anticipation of family gatherings, the beauty and excitement of celebrating our Savior’s birth, and the hope of a brand-new year filled with fresh beginnings.

Change isn’t always easy, but fall reminds us that God makes transitions beautiful. Just as the leaves let go to make way for new life, I’m learning to let go and trust His timing.

Because even when life feels uncertain—God’s plan is certain.

Stronger Than I Look: Finding Strength Through Christ (and a Little Glitter)

Verse of the Month:

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." – Philippians 4:13

Let’s just get this out there—I am not what you'd call “physically strong.” I’ve never been athletic. In fact, I used to joke that when God handed out muscle, I must’ve been in the glitter line instead.

A few weeks ago, I had surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff, and let me tell you... I was reminded (not so gently) of my lack of physical strength. Healing has been slow. My body moves at a different pace these days, and recovery has been humbling. It’s easy to wonder, What if I had taken better care of myself all those years? Would this be easier?

But in the quiet moments—when I can't lift, reach, or do all the physical things I want—I’ve been reminded of something bigger:

God doesn’t measure strength the way we do.

Some people have told me they see strength in me—not in my arms or back, but in my patience, in how I stick with things, how I quietly persevere when life is hard. And truthfully? Those aren’t strengths I naturally recognize in myself. In fact, there have been seasons where I felt so fragile I wondered how I’d make it through another day.

But that’s the key. I didn’t make it through alone.   It’s only because of my faith in God—because He’s given me His Son and the Holy Spirit to walk alongside me—that I’ve made it through the deepest valleys.

We’re empty nesters now, and life’s a little quieter. But challenges still come. And I still need His strength. Every. Single. Day.

God, in His goodness, has also given me the gift of crafting—a place to pour joy, color, and a little sparkle into the world, even when my body is limited. When I create, I feel a kind of strength rise up—not physical strength, but the kind that comes from purpose, peace, and the steady presence of the Holy Spirit.

So no, I’m not a bodybuilder. But through Christ?

I am strong enough.

Stronger than I look. Stronger than I feel.

Because His strength is made perfect in my weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9), and I’ll take that kind of strength any day.

Stronger Than I Look: Finding Strength Through Christ (and a Little Glitter)

Stronger Than I Look: Finding Strength Through Christ (and a Little Glitter)

Verse of the Month:

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." – Philippians 4:13

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Let’s just get this out there—I am not what you'd call “physically strong.” I’ve never been athletic. In fact, I used to joke that when God handed out muscle, I must’ve been in the glitter line instead.

But a few weeks ago, I had surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff, and let me tell you... I was reminded (not so gently) of my lack of physical strength. Healing has been slow. My body moves at a different pace these days, and recovery has been humbling. It’s easy to wonder, What if I had taken better care of myself all those years? Would this be easier?

But in the quiet moments—when I can't lift, reach, or do all the physical things I want—I’ve been reminded of something bigger:

God doesn’t measure strength the way we do.

Some people have told me they see strength in me—not in my arms or back, but in my patience, in how I stick with things, how I quietly persevere when life is hard. And truthfully? Those aren’t strengths I naturally recognize in myself. In fact, there have been seasons where I felt so fragile I wondered how I’d make it through another day.

But that’s the key. I didn’t make it through alone.  It’s only because of my faith in God—because He’s given me His Son and the Holy Spirit to walk alongside me—that I’ve made it through the deepest valleys.

We’re empty nesters now, and life’s a little quieter. But challenges still come. And I still need His strength. Every. Single. Day.

God, in His goodness, has also given me the gift of crafting—a place to pour joy, color, and a little sparkle into the world, even when my body is limited. When I create, I feel a kind of strength rise up—not physical strength, but the kind that comes from purpose, peace, and the steady presence of the Holy Spirit.

So no, I’m not a bodybuilder. But through Christ?

I am strong enough.

Stronger than I look. Stronger than I feel.

Because His strength is made perfect in my weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9), and I’ll take that kind of strength any day.

🇺🇸 What Does America Mean to You? 🇺🇸

Every July, the smell of grilled hot dogs and the pop of fireworks in the sky mark more than just another holiday. For me, July 4th is a sacred reminder of the incredible heritage we’ve been given as Americans. It’s more than parades and sparklers—it's a celebration of the freedoms that were fought for, bled for, and too often forgotten.

Our forefathers fought and died to give us a nation rooted in liberty:

👉 Freedom to worship without fear.

👉 Freedom to speak our minds—even if we don’t all agree.

👉 Freedom to vote and have a voice in our future.

These freedoms weren’t handed to us wrapped in a bow—they were earned through grit, loss, and an unshakable belief in what this country could be.

> “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he chose for his inheritance.”

– Psalm 33:12

For the past six years, I’ve had the privilege—and the heartache—of being a Blue Star mom. That means someone I love deeply wears the uniform, serves our nation, and stands ready to defend those very freedoms we sometimes take for granted. And let me tell you, when your child raises their hand to serve, suddenly the word freedom takes on a whole new weight.

I see it all the time—people forgetting. Forgetting that our freedom came at a steep price. That millions perished to give us the right to argue, to worship, to build lives on our own terms. Sometimes I get discouraged when I see people complaining that freedom means “everything should be free”—as if the right to pursue a good life means it should just be handed to us.

Or when freedom of religion gets twisted into an excuse to mock or persecute people of faith—especially Christians and Jews. That’s not freedom. That’s intolerance dressed up in hypocrisy.

And don’t even get me started on the politicians who get rich while claiming they’re “serving the people.” I’m pretty sure our founding fathers didn’t cross an ocean and go to war so someone could pad their bank account in the name of patriotism.

Sometimes I find myself longing for a simpler America—one where hard work was honored, where a person could have a home, a job, and raise their family without fear of being targeted for what they believe. Not a perfect past, but a place where faith, family, and freedom weren’t buzzwords—they were real.

> “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”

– Galatians 5:1

And while I love this country and the freedoms it offers, the greatest freedom I have isn’t found in the Constitution—it’s found at the foot of the Cross. God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to offer us freedom—freedom from sin, from shame, from eternal separation. Real freedom. Eternal freedom. All He asks in return is that we believe in Him and trust in His plan for our lives.

> “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”

– John 8:36

This July, I’m challenging myself—and you—to pause between the fireworks and BBQs and ask:

What does America mean to you?

Not the headlines. Not the politics. But at its core. What do you cherish most about being an American? And even more importantly—what does freedom in Christ mean to you?

Let’s not forget what this country was built on. Let’s remember what so many have sacrificed to give us. And maybe, just maybe, let’s live like we still believe that liberty—both earthly and eternal—is worth defending.

With gratitude and hope,

Aimee

Proud Blue Star Mom, Faith-Fueled Creator, and Lover of All Things Red, White, and Sparkly ✨

Faith, Family & Freedom: A June Full of Love

💕 Faith, Family & Freedom: A June Full of Love

Hello sweet friends!

Can you believe it’s already June? The year is half over (what?!), and here we are stepping into summer with sandals on our feet and iced tea in hand. June always feels like a big, sparkly swirl of love, celebration, and sunshine… and this year is no different!

Let’s start with something dear to my heart — the beautiful reminder found in 1 Corinthians 13. You know the one. It’s the “love chapter.” And oh, how perfect it is for this season.

> "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud..." (1 Corinthians 13:4)

As we celebrate all kinds of love this month — from proud parents beaming at their graduates, to families honoring devoted dads, to my hubby and I thanking God for another year of marriage — this verse grounds us. Whether you're cheering from the bleachers, flipping burgers for your crew, or just holding hands on the porch swing, love is at the center of it all.

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🎓 Hats Off to the Grads

To all the grads out there — from preschool to PhDs — you did it! You pushed through challenges, worked hard, and grew in so many ways. I see you and I’m cheering loud! I’ve even been crafting a few special graduation gift card holders and keepsakes to help families celebrate their graduates in handmade style. (Yes, I may or may not have added glitter…)

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👔 Celebrating Dads (and Grandpas and Bonus Dads, too!)

Father’s Day is coming up quick, and it’s a perfect chance to honor the guys who quietly fix all the broken things, grill like kings, give the best hugs, and lead with strength and love. I’ve been crafting some fun Father’s Day pens that say things like “Fixer of All Things” and “Grill. Nap. Repeat.” (because let’s be honest — that’s the real dad agenda).

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💍 Our Anniversary — A Sweet Reminder of God’s Faithfulness

This month, my hubby and I are celebrating our wedding anniversary. It’s not just a date on the calendar — it’s a testimony of God's grace, patience, humor, and a whole lotta love through the years. Marriage is beautiful and messy and full of growth, and I wouldn’t trade a moment of our story.

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☀️ Summer Begins: Let the Festivities Roll!

With the official start of summer comes all the things I love — county fairs, local festivals, fresh lemonade, and front porch sittin’. I’m already thinking of funnel cakes and fireworks! (And let’s not forget trying to keep glitter from sticking to literally everything in this heat — it’s a full-time job, y’all.)

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🇺🇸 Cup of the Month: Red, White & Beautiful

June’s Cup of the Month is all about celebrating the USA! Whether you're watching fireworks or sipping sweet tea by the lake, I’ve got patriotic designs that sparkle with red, white, and blue pride — and they’re 20% off all month long!

Let’s raise a cup to our nation, to freedom, and to the brave men and women who make it all possible.

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💬 Let’s Chat

How are YOU celebrating this June? Do you have a favorite summer tradition, a Father’s Day memory, or a love story of your own? I’d love to hear it. Drop a comment or send me a message. I read every single one!

And as always — thank you for supporting my little handmade shop. You make this crafting adventure such a joy.

With love (the 1 Corinthians 13 kind),

💖 Aimee

Aimee’s Craft Addiction

"Faith. Glitter. Heart."

What Makes a Handmade Gift So Special?

In a world full of mass-produced products, there's something deeply meaningful about a handmade gift. Every item in my shop is crafted by hand, with care and creativity poured into each piece. But when a customer asks for something custom? That’s when the magic truly happens.

Custom creations allow me to work directly with you, ensuring every detail—no matter how small—meets your vision. Together, we craft something more than a gift—we create a memory.

One of my favorite custom orders was a Father’s Day tumbler for a grandpa who loved fishing. It featured a fish on the line of a fishing pole, with each grandchild’s name on a small fish. It captured everything he loved most in one beautiful, useful keepsake.

Other custom pieces have honored cherished memories—a tumbler with a beloved pet, or a photo of a loved one who has passed. These gifts become treasures, carrying deep meaning for those who receive them.

This season is full of opportunities to give something truly unique:

May brings us Teacher Appreciation Week, Nurse Appreciation Week, and Mother’s Day

June celebrates Father’s Day and the incredible dads and grandpas in our lives

Looking for the perfect Father’s Day idea? Check out my May Cup of the Month: the 4-in-1 Can Cooler.    This versatile tumbler works as a can cooler, bottle holder, and travel cup—all in one. It’s the ultimate customizable gift for the dads who love fishing, grilling, hunting, or just relaxing. Add a personal touch with their name, a favorite saying, or even a themed design like “Fixer of All Things” or “Keepin’ It Reel.”

No matter the occasion or theme, a custom handmade gift is created with the recipient in mind—thoughtful, personal, and made to be adored for years to come.

Let’s create something meaningful together!

Website:  https://aimeescraftaddiction.com 

Email:  aimeescraftaddiction2021@gmail.com