The Garden Bench

Boots, Babies & Big Moves: Aly Fish’s Journey Through Motherhood and Military Transitions

Today on the Planted in Purpose podcast, I’m joined by my dear friend Aly Fish—U.S. Army veteran, certified nutritionist, military spouse, homeschool mama to five (with one more on the way!), and a woman who carries strength with such grace.   We met in South Korea—she lived just two floors above me—and I’ve been inspired by her ever since. In just the past year, she’s made a major international move with five little ones and a sweet baby on the way, bought a home, and continued showing up for her family while her husband continues to serve overseas.   She knows transition. She knows motherhood. And she knows the quiet, steady hand of God through it all.   If you’ve been feeling stretched, unseen, or in the middle of a big move—this episode is for you. Aly’s story is filled with honesty, humility, and hope.   ✨ In this episode, Aly touches on: • Life after active duty • Homeschooling through transition • Faith in the chaos • Building new rhythms • How to keep showing up, even when it’s hard   And most of all—how to trust that God is still weaving purpose in the middle of it all. Don't forget to subscribe + share.   Gentle Reminder: You are not alone. There’s grace for your pace. And there’s beauty and purpose, even here.

The Garden Bench: When God Says No

Sometimes, we carry things so quietly—hopes, hurts, questions we haven’t dared to speak aloud. But here, at the bench, you don’t have to have it all figured out. This space was made for real hearts and honest moments.  Today’s reflection is a gentle pause—an invitation to breathe deep, lean in, and meet God right where you are. Rejection stings. Whether it’s a door that closed, an opportunity that slipped away, or a place you thought you belonged—no can feel personal. But what if the “no” is actually God’s redirection?  In today’s Garden Bench reflection, I’m sharing about the moments where what we want doesn’t align with what God is doing—and how He meets us there with wisdom and a better way. If you’ve been wrestling with a closed door or feeling like you missed something good, this one is for you.

The Garden Bench: Connections Without Conditions

FREE Guided Journal! I’ve been holding this one close—and today, I finally get to share it with you. I created something special for your quiet moments: The Garden Bench Guided Journal to Nourish Your Purpose is officially HERE—and it’s completely FREE. This isn’t just a download—it’s a faith-filled space. Inside, you’ll find: *Thoughtful, scripture-rooted journal prompts *2 personal letters from me to you *Open space to reflect, write, and reconnect with what truly matters It’s for the woman who’s ready to slow down. To get honest with herself. And to seek God—in the stillness. Grab your free copy right now on the Planted in Purpose Official Website in the Toolbox!  This reflection is close to my heart—it’s about showing up in a world where hustle is loud, but heart can be hard to find. It’s about friendship without performance. Presence over productivity. And remembering that you are already enough—because God said so. If you’ve been craving something real… If your soul is tired of shallow… Come sit with me for a few minutes. You don’t have to earn your place. You already belong here.

The Garden Bench

Something sacred has been quietly blooming… and today, I finally get to invite you in. Introducing The Garden Bench—a gentle space for honest heart-to-hearts. No script. No polish. Just real life and God’s quiet whispers in the middle of it all. This isn’t a podcast. It’s a breath of fresh air for weary hearts. A soft landing for mamas juggling joy and exhaustion. A reminder that even here—folding laundry, wiping tears, holding it all together—God is still tending to you. So pull up a seat. I saved you a spot.

Episode 8 - Faith, Flights & Foodie Finds: Traveling with Purpose in Military Life – Featuring Reyshelle Yoon

What do you get when you mix a heart full of faith, a passport full of stamps, and a love for all things delicious? You get my dear friend Reyshelle—a fellow military spouse, foodie, and faithful traveler who truly lives out purpose wherever she lands.   In this lighthearted, honest and super practical conversation, Reyshelle talks about making temporary duty stations feel like home, her favorite food-inspired travel stories, planning with purpose—even when the Army throws curveballs, how to travel well—without losing your mind or budget, the gift of traveling with community, and real talk for military spouses who want to explore but feel overwhelmed by the pace and unpredictability of it all.   Plus—don’t miss our lightning round at the end. It’s equal parts hilarious and relatable. Psalm 121:8 says, “The Lord will watch over your coming and going, both now and forevermore.” Whether you’re in transition, dreaming of your next adventure, or just trying to make this season feel meaningful, I pray this conversation reminds you: God goes with you. And your purpose? It doesn’t pause just because you’re packing.   Don’t forget to subscribe + share.   Follow Reyshelle on Instagram @__reyshelle for all her food, family, and travel goodness.