Embracing Growth in 2024
2024 has been a transformative year, marked by both incredible highs and difficult challenges. From coaching at South Alabama to navigating life’s uncertainties, I’ve learned a valuable lesson: when you trust in God’s plan, everything falls into place, even when it seems uncertain. T
he year started off with my role as the lead for a huge fundraiser at South Alabama, where we raised an impressive $42,000. The sleepless nights, checklists, and spreadsheets paid off as we achieved our goal.
But in the midst of it all, a
piece of advice from a wise woman, Becky Clark, stuck with me: “Do the things you can control great and let God do the rest.”
I took that to heart, and the season unfolded beautifully. We made it to the Gainesville Regional, a milestone we had missed in 2023, reminding me that faith, patience, and perseverance lead to success.
Surrendering to God’s Plan
As the year went on, I encountered a few twists and turns. After the regional, I made the decision to move to Ohio with my boyfriend. It was a bold move, one filled with unknowns. Jobless and unsure, I started searching for new opportunities but struggled to find a clear direction. I kept reminding myself that things would fall into place.

In late May, I reached out to Katie Lively at Extra Inning Softball about potential remote work. To my surprise, that evening, Bonnie Holland reached out to me with an offer for an interview. The next thing I knew, I had been hired for the managing editor position. It was clear: God’s plan was unfolding in ways I couldn’t have predicted.
This period taught me to trust the journey, to embrace uncertainty, and to lean into God’s timing. Even though it wasn’t a simple or fast path, it was the right one. I also learned how to embrace my family’s constant support throughout this transition.
My parents have been a rock for me; my dad starts every day by sending me a motivational text, reminding me that he’s always there for me. His daily encouragement and words of wisdom have been a constant source of strength, especially during times of doubt.
My mom is always there for me whether it is showing her my apartment decorations or just calling her to talk, she is my best friend.
The Blessing of Family Time
In June, after moving to Ohio, my boyfriend proposed to me, and I said yes! That was another reminder that everything falls into place exactly how it’s meant to. But beyond the personal milestones, this year has also blessed me with more family time than I’ve had since starting college softball. Being away from home for so long has made me realize just how important those moments are.

My family’s love and support have made a world of difference, and it feels so good to be able to come home for a month this Christmas. The chance to spend time with my parents, who have always been there for me, and to spend quality time with them is priceless. They’ve supported me through every major step in my life, and I’m grateful for their constant presence and encouragement.
A Year of Faith, Gratitude, and Moving Forward
Reflecting on this year, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the path God has guided me on. The chance to play in the regional with my team, the opportunity to work with Extra Inning Softball, and the deepening of relationships with my family and fiancé have been nothing short of a blessing.
I’ve learned that trusting God’s plan requires patience and surrender—two things I’ve been continually reminded of. Life doesn’t always move as fast as we want, but when we let go and trust, everything falls into place. And with that trust, we experience true peace.
This year has also reminded me that faith and gratitude are key to living a fulfilled life. With the new year just around the corner, I’m excited for what’s to come. I’m eager to continue growing in my career, my relationship, and my faith. I’m ready to embrace every opportunity and lesson 2025 brings. And as always, I’ll keep reminding myself that God has a plan, and I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be.
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