The Learning Loft

There are seasons in life when everything feels foggy—when questions swirl, clarity feels out of reach, and your heart is searching for peace. I’ve had those seasons. I’ve walked through moments that challenged my faith, shook my confidence, and made me question everything I thought I knew. And in those times, I turned to what has always grounded me:  journaling. My Lifeline: Journaling as a Spiritual Practice I haven’t just started journaling—I’ve journaled for years. But over time, my journaling has deepened. What started as a way to record my thoughts has evolved into a sacred space where I meet God daily. My journal is where I process, where I question, and where I receive. I wouldn't be where I am in my spiritual journey without it. Some days I write scriptures. Some days I write my fears. And sometimes— before I even finish writing the question—God gives me the answer. 🌧️  When the Clouds Roll In Stepping outside your comfort zone is uncomfortable— that’s literally the ...

Introduction If you're feeling anxious about your upcoming immigration interview—you’re not alone. I attend these interviews regularly, and most people feel a mix of nervousness and uncertainty. This guide is designed to help you understand what to expect at your I-485 interview, especially if you're applying for a green card through marriage. The goal is to walk in prepared, confident, and focused. What to Bring to Your Interview Here’s a general checklist of what you may be required to bring. Always follow your attorney’s  and  USCIS’s specific instructions. •  Government-issued photo IDs (yours and your spouse’s, if applicable) •  Passports (current and expired) •  Interview appointment notice •  Original birth certificates •  Marriage certificate/divorce decrees (if applying based on marriage) •  I-485 receipt notices and any RFE (Request for Evidence) responses •  Proof of shared life together (lease, utility bills, joint bank accounts, ...

  Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase through these links.   Why I Love Keurig Machines If you know me, you know I love coffee. It’s my morning ritual, my mid-afternoon pick-me-up, and my evening indulgence on the occasional late night. My son and daughter-in-law got me my first Keurig machine, and since then, I’ve been hooked. Over the years, I’ve tried a few different models and even dabbled with an off-brand K-cup machine when I worked at an agency. But in the end, Keurig has my heart. What I love most about Keurig machines is their simplicity. They brew just one cup at a time, and they’re incredibly quick. No more waiting for an entire pot to brew—just pop in a K-cup, press a button, and you’ve got a perfect cup of coffee in minutes. The variety of K-cups is another plus—you can experiment with different flavors or stick to a favorite. The downside? K-cups tend...

  Fall Fashion Favorites: Cozy, Stylish, and Perfectly Me Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I love fall—the crisp air, the changing leaves, and, of course, the clothes! Fall fashion is my favorite because it’s all about layering up in cozy, stylish pieces. There’s something about pulling on a big, chunky sweater and pairing it with the perfect boots that makes me feel like I can take on the world, whether I’m running errands or heading to a meeting. Sweaters that Feel Like a Hug One of my absolute must-haves for fall is a chunky pink sweater with balloon sleeves . It’s perfect for those chilly mornings, offering both comfort and a polished look. Whether I’m staying casual or dressing up with accessories, it’s always my go-to. I also love the simplicity of a classic pink turtleneck . It’s lightweight yet cozy, making it a versatile piece for layering or pairing wi...

  Time Management Tips for Busy Business Owners: Finding the Balance Between Cooking and Convenience Affiliate Disclosure : This article contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links at no additional cost to you. As a busy business owner, finding the perfect balance between managing your time and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can feel like a never-ending challenge. With so many priorities, from running your business to managing personal tasks, the idea of preparing meals often falls to the wayside. I’ve personally struggled to find that balance between time, money, cooking at home, and the convenience of eating out. But here’s the truth: finding ways to manage meal prep and save time can not only improve your well-being but also help you boost productivity in your business. That’s why I’m sharing some of my favorite dump-and-go or crockpot meals —perfect for busy entrepreneurs who want to reclaim time in their day with...

  Kid-Friendly Halloween Treats and Games for a Fun-Filled Party Affiliate Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase something through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Introduction: Halloween has always been one of my favorite times of the year, especially for the kids. Growing up, we threw big harvest parties with all the fun of the season—pumpkin patches, hayrides, and plenty of games. Now, even though I don’t go all out the way we used to, I still make sure the little ones have a blast with kid-friendly Halloween parties. Of course, I steer clear of spooky or dark elements that don’t honor God, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy treats and fun games. Halloween can still be a lighthearted and faith-filled celebration. If you’re looking for creative ways to throw a memorable Halloween party for kids, I’ve got some fun treat ideas and games that will keep them entertained without any of the scare fact...

  Christian-Friendly Alternatives to Trick-or-Treating: Fun and Faithful Halloween Ideas Affiliate Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase something through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Introduction: I’ve always loved fall. The crisp air, colorful leaves, and the joy that comes with celebrating the season make it my favorite time of year. My family and I used to go all out—decorating our porch, deck, and even the bridge with purple and orange lights, cornstalks, scarecrows, and yard signs. It was magical, especially during the harvest parties we hosted. These days, we take a simpler approach. My son and I throw on our Halloween T-shirts, sit by the outdoor heater on our porch, and pass out candy to the neighborhood kids. It’s a fun way to stay involved while keeping things light and Christ-centered. Halloween doesn’t have to be about spooky costumes or trick-or-treating. As Christians, we can celeb...

  Why Christians Can Still Celebrate Halloween While Honoring God Affiliate Disclosure This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of the links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Introduction: A Holiday with Christian Origins Halloween has long been viewed by many as a "devil's holiday," but its origins tell a different story. In fact, Halloween, or "All Hallows’ Eve," began as a Christian holiday, closely tied to All Saints Day—a day meant to honor saints and martyrs of the faith. Over time, however, the meaning of the holiday has shifted, and it’s often been associated with darkness, witchcraft, and the occult. As Christians, it’s important to remember its roots and reclaim it for God. After all, the devil doesn't own any day—every day is made by God. The Shift Away from God Historically, All Hallows’ Eve was a time of remembrance, where people reflected on the lives of saints a...