Family Around The World

Aloha, friends!
We just returned home to Kauai after two full months of traveling around the world with our four kids and wow, what a ride it’s been. From Nebraska to Indonesia, Turkey to Portugal, and back through California and Texas, we experienced so many highs and lows. This trip stretched us, bonded us, and reminded us of what truly matters: faith, family, and perseverance through the unpredictable waves of life.

Living Life Together — Not Separate

As a family, we’ve made an intentional choice to live together. That means when I go to speak somewhere, we all go. When Adam and I plan an event, the kids come along. We homeschool, we travel, we integrate our faith, work, and family life; it’s all one rhythm.

It’s not always easy. There are tantrums, jet lag, and “are we there yet?” moments galore. But the reward is incredible. Our children get to experience the world through a lens of faith and adventure. They see us navigating the highs and lows together. We want them to understand that life and faith aren’t compartmentalized; they’re meant to be lived as one beautiful, messy, joyful whole.

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” — Colossians 3:23 (ESV)

From Cornfields to Coral Reefs

Our first stop was Nebraska, where we visited Adam’s family and spoke at the Nebraska Family Alliance gala. It was powerful to see people committed to protecting families, life, and women’s sports. Plus, our kids absolutely loved the farm life, feeding animals, running wild with cousins, and soaking up grandparent time.

From there, we jetted off to Indonesia, a dream destination for surfing but also a test of endurance! Let’s just say a six-hour boat ride with rough seas, food poisoning, and jet-lagged kids will grow anyone’s patience and prayer life. There were tears, moments of “why did we do this?” and yet, there was also laughter, grace, and turquoise waves that reminded us of God’s beauty in creation.

Through it all, we learned that even the most breathtaking destinations come with challenges. But those challenges refine you. They build gratitude and resilience. They draw your family closer and remind you to depend on the Lord for strength.

Family, Faith, and the Little Moments

Some of my favorite memories weren’t of the waves or the views they were the small, real moments. Watching our son Wesley go from dreading surfing to falling in love with it. Seeing our boys’ faces light up inside the centuries-old Porto Cathedral in Portugal as they stood in awe of its beauty and history. Laughing (and sometimes crying) through the chaos of travel.

These moments reminded us that parenting is discipleship. Our children are learning not just from what we say, but from how we live—how we respond to stress, how we find joy, how we seek God in all circumstances.

When we reached the end of the trip and stepped back onto Hawaiian soil, we were exhausted but full of gratitude. Grateful for our time away, and even more grateful for the blessing of home.

Two Takeaways from the Journey

1. Family is the Greatest Adventure.
   It’s not about perfect itineraries or smooth flights. It’s about showing up together, loving each other through the mess, and letting God’s grace guide you through every high and low.

2. Faith Anchors Every Journey.
   Whether you’re traveling the world or simply navigating a hard season at home, the same truth applies—God is your anchor. His presence brings peace even in the turbulence.

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” — Lamentations 3:22–23 (ESV)

As we settle back into home life, unpacking suitcases, cleaning up moldy pantry shelves (true story!), and catching up on sleep, we’re reminded that every part of life is sacred. The ordinary moments, the big adventures, the quiet prayers whispered on long flights, all of it can glorify God when we live with intention and gratitude.

So, whether you’re traveling across the world or just across town, remember this: life’s journey isn’t about perfection, it’s about perseverance, faith, and the joy of walking it together.

Check out the whole podcast here!

With love and aloha,
Bethany 🌺