Welcome to Stephanie Carter Blog: Marriage, Ministry, and Messiness

If you’re new here, let me officially say welcome. I’m really glad you’re here.

I started this blog during my years on staff in ministry. I needed an outlet—a place to be honest, to breathe, and to remind myself (and others) of grace.

There is so much freedom in telling the truth about our struggles, disappointments, and the messy middle. I truly believe one of the best ways we serve others is simply by showing up real and engaging honestly.

Family is everything to me. We are blessed with a beautiful, growing family that keeps life full and meaningful. Our granddaughter Ona recently turned 12—she is our foster granddaughter, but we simply call her ours. We’ve also gained a wonderful son-in-law and a precious step-granddaughter, and watching our family expand has been one of life’s sweetest gifts.

This past season also brought the joy of a new grandbaby, and yes—I officially became a Gogo. Everyone warned me about this role, especially when you see your daughter have a baby, and I can happily confirm… they were right. It truly is the best thing ever.

Our son and daughter-in-law continue to enjoy doing life together with us—remodeling homes, dreaming up projects, and traveling whenever we can, often with a castle involved. I’ve always believed there’s something sacred about history, beauty, and standing in places that remind us how big and creative God really is.

Since starting this blog, life has changed in big and beautiful ways. I’ve changed careers, survived a hurricane—both literally and emotionally—and walked through seasons I never could have imagined.

I’ve also walked alongside deep heartbreak. I watched one of my best friends lose her husband unexpectedly at just 52 years old. Another best friend went in for what was supposed to be a low-risk surgery, barely survived, and is now facing months of healing and additional surgeries ahead. These moments change you. 

And yet, what I continue to learn—again and again—is this truth: God is good. God is faithful. And I can trust Him.

Life is one big adventure. Living it for Jesus and for His glory is the greatest adventure I know.Oh—and marriage too. That’s definitely an adventure.

Life is messy. If you think everyone around you has it all together, you probably haven’t looked very closely. We all have a mess. But giving ourselves grace—and extending that same grace to others—that’s where the best life (and the best laughter) lives. And there must be laughter. Always.

As 2026 unfolds, I’ll be sharing about:

• My new season in ministry

• Marriage and new date-night adventures

• Building our next home and dreaming out loud about home decorating again

• Favorite finds as I plan gatherings and parties (oh the joy that brings)

• Faith, family, and plenty of messiness along the way

  
  

So grab a cupcake (if you’ve been here since the beginning, you know why ), stay awhile, and follow along. You’re welcome here—mess and all.