The Learning Loft

  🧩  When the Plumbing Breaks, So Does Our Perspective The other day, I noticed something strange: a gurgling noise in the shower. Then the toilet started bubbling. Next thing I knew, water was backing up and nothing was draining properly. My first reaction?  Frustration. That’s  my  bathroom. The one I use every day. I didn’t feel like dealing with problems, messes, or backup. I skipped my exercise, felt irritated, and let the situation throw off my day. And honestly? I stewed in my frustration. Then after letting it derail me, it hit me: Girl, you have another bathroom. So what—you had to use another bathroom? People have real problems and you’re complaining because you had to use another bathroom  in your house? Right then I knew: I needed to be  thankful  that I even had another bathroom to use. You see—I  already knew  that God has provided a solution to every problem I’ll ever have. But in that moment, I chose to focus on the prob...

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...