January 4, 2026 - Sunday

We went to CT this morning, and it feels like it's been FOREVER. But it was a great morning and so good to see so many friendly faces! I just enjoy our CT so much. I love getting so see all of the friends I've made through my work and volunteering there. I've had so many meaningful conversations with so many people and it feels great to get to catch up with them, since this is the only place I can do it. God has blessed us so much with this church, and it's so sad how quickly we sometimes forget that! Ben and I are going to discuss when to try out this other HC at some point tonight or tomorrow. It's the new year and I know he's eager to go see what it's all about. I talked to Sarah about it today, briefly, and she told me that the little worker team that started in Hilliard is actually going to become a bush group in the next few weeks. A few couples that I know (and, actually, love!) are going to join the group and see if they can get it off the ground. I have no idea where they're going to be meeting, but that could be an option for us, as well. I mean, as long as we're trying things, we could try that, too? Maybe? We're still battling the feelings of shame we keep getting just for thinking about looking for a different home church. Lord knows I'm content where we are right now, but I don't know if I've seen Ben feeling sadder than he has over the last year in this group. If I were alone, I'd stay. No question. But I'm not and I feel an obligation to help Benny find a place where he feels wanted and like there is some possibility of making good friends with the guys there. I do think men have a harder time finding a HC that works for them, though. I've heard similar stories from a few different men within our church over the years. Not that it changes anything. 

I got to take Jonas on a date this afternoon. We just went to Graeter's for a little bit and discussed our book over milkshakes. We also went over to Roundtable, but he wanted to leave after like 10 minutes because he got too tempted to spend money. Then we headed home! He and Clem went to middle school group and hung out with their mentors and I got the homeschool room cleaned, in preparation for tomorrow. Even though I have no interest in started school back up tomorrow. I want another week off! I'm not going to take the whole week, but I'm going to do less than usual.