Recorded on October 11, 2019, this heartfelt audio journal from Lyn Goffaux captures how an ordinary phone call becomes a turning point filled with relief, gratitude, and renewed trust in God. Lyn shares the story of finally finding her little recording device and her eagerness to tell what happened “sometime last week,” setting the stage for a memory that changed how she saw her future. She remembers answering the phone and hearing from “the Heartland,” the care facility she thought she might be moving into, only to learn she has been rejected because she is considered too weak in her transfers and they are not prepared to support her celiac needs. Instead of crumbling, Lyn feels a surprising sense of freedom, as if a heavy weight has been lifted from her shoulders, and she responds with a grateful, even playful spirit.

She explains that, at first, she believed she had to go because those around her wanted what they thought was best. Her girls encouraged the move, and even though she was told it was her decision, she still felt pulled to please them and to consider their worries about her safety and care. Talking with Paul becomes a key moment; he admits that he feels better with her staying close by, and that simple honesty helps her recognize that remaining at home may genuinely be the healthiest, most peaceful option for both of them. Knowing that she does not have to go to “an institution for old people” allows Lyn to embrace the life she already has, right where she is.

From there, Lyn moves into the very practical questions that come with staying at home. She considers signing up for Meals on Wheels and weighs her deep love of her own cooking against the convenience of having reliable meals delivered for three dollars a day. She talks about the helper who visits her, struggles to recall her name for a moment, then happily remembers it is Tammy, and laughs at herself for the lapse. Lyn explains how important it is to have someone who can walk with her, especially when Paul is sick and unable to help, and she wishes she could have Tammy come every day just to support her safely. At the same time, she is honest about the cost of paying for an hour each day and wonders whether there might be someone closer who could offer help without straining anyone’s finances.

The reflection deepens as Lyn turns toward her house, her possessions, and her relationship with God. She admits how much she loves her home and the things she has collected, yet she does not want to hold on to them more tightly than she holds on to the Lord. In prayer, she imagines Jesus asking whether she is clinging to her possessions and friendships in a way that keeps her from fully trusting Him. After wrestling with that question, she reaches a place where she feels truly willing to “give it all away,” even though her heart still feels pulled in two directions. Lyn talks about Lisa needing furniture and how she has pieces that could bless her, while Paul and Sherry also would like certain meaningful items, even though their house is already small and full. She mentions a clock and a cupboard her dad made, along with a special cabinet for displaying pretty things that needs fixing and that Paul could repair once he feels better.

By the end of this October 11, 2019 recording, Lyn is thinking about how to function better in her space, how to keep track of small but important objects, and how to simplify without losing what matters most. Her gentle, candid storytelling offers a window into the emotional landscape of aging, health challenges, family expectations, and the spiritual work of letting go.

This episode invites you to sit with Lyn as she discovers that even an unexpected “no” can be a loving protection, opening the door for her to stay rooted at home, share what she has with her family, and rest in the quiet assurance that God is guiding each step.