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Anchored by Hope

Authentic + Biblical Encouragement

Categories: Faith

Anchored by Hope: My Faith Journey of Redemption and New Life in Christ

My faith journey of redemption and new life in christ

Anchored by Hope: My Faith Journey of Redemption and New Life in Christ

As the leaves change and a new season has begun, my sentimental heart can’t help but reminisce over how much this blog (and my self) have grown in the last decade.

It felt like it was time to dig deep and share a little more about how I became Anchored by Hope.

I grew up in the rhythms of the Catholic Church, knowing God was real and believing I understood who Jesus was. Yet, as I grew older, He felt more and more distant—hidden behind rituals I could never seem to perfect. Ironic, isn’t it? The very reason God sent His Son was because He knew we could never do it on our own. But that truth hadn’t yet pierced my heart. I believed I was too far gone, long before I even began straying down the wrong path.

Then everything changed.

A Journey from Lost to Found: How Faith Anchored My Soul

Mike and I met one summer night, and from that moment, we were inseparable. Our relationship was far from perfect, but God had plans even then.

At that time, I was working as a licensed cosmetologist, finding a sense of purpose in helping others feel beautiful. Yet, something deeper still eluded me—until one year.

A Christmas Invitation That Began My Faith Journey

Faith journey Christas
Photo by Kader D. Kahraman on Pexels.com

Mike’s grandfather invited us to a Christmas service at the church Mike had grown up in. For him, it was nostalgic—but for me, it was life-altering. The authenticity in their worship, the way they spoke of God so casually, it awakened something deep inside me.

I couldn’t get enough.

We both started attending night services, prodigals finding our way back. When Mike bought me my first Bible, the Word began to work in me, unraveling the doubts, healing the wounds, and slowly pulling me toward the life God had for me all along.

Living a New Life in Christ: A Journey of Grace and Purpose

The more I read, the more the truth sank in: I wasn’t who I used to be. The old me, the one who thought she was too far gone, was being slowly but surely replaced by someone new—someone anchored by hope. It wasn’t an instant transformation. It was slow, almost imperceptible at first, but it was real. The life I had built around chaos and running was being replaced by something I never saw coming: peace.

Soon after accepting Jesus as my Savior, I was baptized at 24—not as a religious ritual, but as a declaration of my new life. Though I had been baptized as a baby, this time it was different. I was surrendering fully to the One who had redeemed me, and that surrender sparked a hunger to know Him more.

From Baptism to Bible Studies: Embracing My Faith

At 25, I enrolled in school to pursue a degree in Biblical Studies. I was enthralled with God’s Word, captivated by its depth and the way it was changing me. Studying the Bible academically only deepened my love for it, and I found myself drawn closer to the heart of God with every page.

Yet, even as my life was transforming, I was far from perfect. Mike and I got pregnant before we were married. It was a reminder that even when we are on a new path, sin doesn’t just vanish overnight.

But God’s grace covered us in that season, too. We eventually got married, not because we had it all together, but because we knew God was calling us to walk this journey together, with Him at the center.

our faith journey and our marriage

Finding Joy in Motherhood and Homemaking

As my faith deepened, so did my understanding of who I was meant to be. Motherhood and homemaking weren’t on my radar back then. I had never pictured myself creating a home or being a mom, but as God worked in me, I began to see the beauty in those roles. They weren’t burdens or societal expectations—they were a calling.

In caring for my family, I was participating in something sacred. In creating a home, I was reflecting the heart of God.

my faith journey and motherhood

Motherhood and homemaking became the unexpected cornerstones of my new life in Christ. It wasn’t just about sweeping floors or folding laundry; it was about nurturing the gifts God had given me—my children, my husband, my home—and honoring Him in the process.

I found joy in the mundane because it was no longer mundane. It was filled with purpose.

Embracing my Faith Journey Anchored by Hope

faith journey

My journey didn’t end the day I was baptized, or when I first opened the Bible—it was only the beginning. Each day since has been a learning curve, not of perfection, but of grace. In motherhood, homemaking, and even in the beauty industry, I’ve come to see that God’s presence is woven into every moment, from the quiet chaos of daily life to the smallest acts of care.

I share my story because I know there are others walking this road—mothers, wives, women who wonder if it’s possible to find redemption amidst the mistakes.

The truth is that God’s grace isn’t dependent on where we’ve been; it’s rooted in His love and the hope He offers us every day. We are never too far gone. I’m living proof that even when life feels messy and imperfect, God is always there, turning the broken pieces into something beautiful.

As you walk your own journey—whether you’re searching for peace, longing for purpose, or simply navigating the messiness of life—I hope my story reminds you of one thing: You are loved, you are seen, and you are never alone.

It’s not about getting everything right, but about staying anchored in the One who never lets go.

Join Me on This Faith Journey + Let’s Walk This Path Together

If any part of my story has resonated with you, I’d love to connect. Whether you’re at the beginning of your journey or somewhere in the middle, there is power in sharing our stories. Leave a comment, send me a message, or connect on social media. Let’s build a community that lifts each other up, one anchored in faith and hope.

And if you haven’t yet, click here to subscribe to the blog for more reflections on faith, motherhood, and grace. Let’s continue walking this path together, discovering the beauty and purpose in every season of life.

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About Nicole

Anchored by Hope is a lifestyle blog founded by Nicole domitro in 2017 to encourage, empower, and educate women on their journey of faith, motherhood, and mental health. Nicole is a wife and mom of three. After struggling with postpartum depression and anxiety, she started Anchored by Hope as a way to open up about her own struggles and help other women who might be going through the same thing. The blog aims to provide hope and encouragement for women of all ages and walks of life.

Meet Nicole

Meet Nicole

Hi, I’m Nicole, and Anchored by Hope is my story of transformation and grace. Before giving my life to Jesus at 24, I lived a life far from where I am today—a mom, homemaker, and beauty artist Anchored by Hope. With a background in Biblical Studies and a passion for helping women find beauty—both inside and out—I’m here to share how God’s Word can transform our everyday lives. Join me as I explore the messy, beautiful, and faith-filled journey of motherhood, homemaking, and living out God’s grace.

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Progress pictures 🥰🥰 I am so blessed 🥹. Progress pictures 🥰🥰 
I am so blessed 🥹.

And not in a “my life is perfect, nothing is wrong, look at me I’m blessed” kind of way. 

But in a “life is messy, I am a mess, and yet my rebel heart is constantly being lavished with love and encouragement through my God and His people” kind of way.

This whole summer has been one giant trust fall. I’m learning what it really means to surrender my expectations—to make my plans but ultimately let the Lord lead the way.

If you knew me before the age of 24, then reading these words probably feels nothing short of crazy 🤪. But friends—the goodness of God is real. It’s available to everyone if you’ll just believe, receive, and continue to follow Jesus.

Has this journey been easy? Absolutely not. But it has been filled with growth, faithfulness, and answered prayers beyond what I could have ever asked for or imagined.

So yes—I’m thrilled to keep sharing my classroom’s transformation, because it represents so much more than décor or bulletin boards. It’s a living picture of what the Lord can do when we simply trust Him.

✨P.S. I can hardly believe it, but my classroom wish list is almost completely fulfilled! 🥹 Just a few items remain, and I know the Lord will provide in His timing. If you feel led to help, it would mean the world to me and my students. 💛 
-> https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2PA5A7D911SGY?ref_=wl_share
Prayer doesn’t have to be complicated. Some day Prayer doesn’t have to be complicated.

Some days my prayers are long, other days they’re just a whispered “help.” But one of my favorite tools for staying rooted in conversation with God is the P.R.A.Y. framework:

P — Praise
Begin by worshiping God for who He is.
💬 “Lord, You are faithful, good, and full of mercy.”

R — Repent
Confess where you’ve fallen short, and rest in His grace.
💬 “Forgive me for rushing ahead of You and for my impatience.”

A — Ask
Bring your needs (and the needs of others) to Him.
💬 “Give me wisdom for the decisions ahead and peace in my waiting.”

Y — Yield
Surrender your plans to Him and listen for His leading.
💬 “I release my agenda. Align my heart with Yours.”

You can use P.R.A.Y. in the morning, in a journal, while doing dishes, or before bed—it’s less about the “how” and more about the “Who.”

💌 I shared this full guide (plus a printable version you can tuck in your Bible) in my weekly email this week.
Not on the list yet? Join now so you never miss a resource or encouragement drop — the link is in my bio.

💬 Do you already have a prayer rhythm? Or is this a tool you’d use?
👩🏼‍🏫 TEACHER FRIENDS 🍎 I need you - 👩🏼‍🏫 TEACHER FRIENDS 🍎

I need you - especially if you are teaching elementary ed (EVEN BETTER if it’s third grade 😆)! 

I have been nose deep in so many things the last couple weeks as I really prep for Fall! I would love to know a couple things if you’re willing to share;

1. Must have teacher supplies
2. Favorite ways to set up your room
3. Any and all resources for literally everything.
4. Things to add to an amazon wishlist
5. Best books - or ideas for how to create a perfect mini classroom library

I would be so grateful for any and all suggestions, recommendations, and encouragement!
I’ve been told I’m too much. Too loud. Too em I’ve been told I’m too much.

Too loud. Too emotional. Too honest.

But ya know what—I’m not trying to shrink myself to fit in.

I’m here for the ones who’ve felt the same.

The anxious mamas, the overthinkers, the rebels learning grace.

The women who love Jesus but still carry questions—and a whole lot of fire.

I don’t write perfect words.
But I pray they point to a perfect God.

Lately, I’ve watched people unsubscribe from my emails—some I’ve known for years.

It stings. 

Not because I need a big list, but because I want my words to matter.

And maybe you get that too.

So I keep writing.

Not for applause, or metrics, or even to be understood— 

but because I know I’m called to.

So if you’ve ever felt like a contradiction—too much and not enough—
I think you’ll feel at home here.

This space is for the misfits, the tender-hearted, the faith-filled + still figuring-it-out.

You’re not alone.

✨ I send weekly reflections by email—real, honest, anchored.

You can subscribe below or at the link in my bio if you’re craving something deeper than just another post. ↓

#faithfulandfeisty #redeemedrebel #anchoredbyhope #whyIwrite
🍎 THIRD GRADE HERE I COME! 👩🏼‍🏫 I st 🍎 THIRD GRADE HERE I COME! 👩🏼‍🏫
I still can’t believe I’m typing this…
This fall, I’ll be stepping into the classroom as a third grade teacher at Christian Liberty Academy!

Yes, I’m excited to teach. But what I’m really excited about is sharing what God has done to bring me here—because this story started over 10 years ago.

In 2013, I walked into CLA for a memorial honoring Mike’s brother. I was a brand-new believer, and something about the place just wrecked me in the best way.
I left in tears, whispering, “I want to teach here.”

But I was a hairstylist with no plans for school. That dream felt wild and impossible.

Two years later, I applied to Moody Bible Institute. Not only was I accepted, but they took all my beauty school credits. A miracle.

Over the years, God kept weaving CLA into our lives—through friends, connections, and redemption stories I could’ve never planned.

When we enrolled Andy in kindergarten there, that same homecoming feeling returned. But with littles at home, we homeschooled for a few years.

Then last fall, God stirred our hearts again. I submitted my resume in faith… not knowing what job (if any) was available.

Fast forward: CLA called.
I thought it was for Bible class.
Instead… they offered me third grade.

It was more than I could’ve ever dreamed.
The moment I stepped into the classroom, I felt it deep in my bones—this is where I’m meant to be.

Only God could take a rebel-hearted hairstylist with nothing but questions…
and turn her into a teacher with a calling.

From salon chairs to classroom desks—He did it.
He planted me right where my heart first whispered, “I want to be here.”

All glory to the One who does immeasurably more than we could ask or imagine.

#ThirdGradeTeacher #GodWroteThis #OnlyGod #AnchoredByHope #TeacherTestimony #ChristianLibertyAcademy #FaithJourney
Motherhood is such a contradiction. It will bring Motherhood is such a contradiction.

It will bring you to your knees in worship and in weariness.

It’s the greatest gift—and the greatest sacrifice.

A holy calling that asks for your whole heart, your whole self, and somehow, gives you even more in return.

Motherhood is late nights and early mornings.

It’s sticky kisses, tearful prayers, and deep, unspoken joys.

It’s the ache of pouring out—and the awe of being loved so fiercely by little hearts who see you as home.

To be a mama is to live in the tension:
of holding on and letting go, of losing yourself and somehow finding more of who God created you to be.

And today, while we honor the beauty and blessing of motherhood, we also hold space for the brokenhearted.

For the women who long for a child.
For those grieving a mama they can’t call today.
For those with strained relationships, losses, or longings.

You are seen. You are loved. You are not forgotten.

Happy Mother’s Day—to the weary, the wonder-filled, and the waiting.

May you feel the love of a God who sees it all and calls it holy.

#iamanchoredbyhope #herviewfromhome #motherhood #mothersday #madetolove #mama

Follow @iamanchoredbyhope

Progress pictures 🥰🥰 I am so blessed 🥹. Progress pictures 🥰🥰 
I am so blessed 🥹.

And not in a “my life is perfect, nothing is wrong, look at me I’m blessed” kind of way. 

But in a “life is messy, I am a mess, and yet my rebel heart is constantly being lavished with love and encouragement through my God and His people” kind of way.

This whole summer has been one giant trust fall. I’m learning what it really means to surrender my expectations—to make my plans but ultimately let the Lord lead the way.

If you knew me before the age of 24, then reading these words probably feels nothing short of crazy 🤪. But friends—the goodness of God is real. It’s available to everyone if you’ll just believe, receive, and continue to follow Jesus.

Has this journey been easy? Absolutely not. But it has been filled with growth, faithfulness, and answered prayers beyond what I could have ever asked for or imagined.

So yes—I’m thrilled to keep sharing my classroom’s transformation, because it represents so much more than décor or bulletin boards. It’s a living picture of what the Lord can do when we simply trust Him.

✨P.S. I can hardly believe it, but my classroom wish list is almost completely fulfilled! 🥹 Just a few items remain, and I know the Lord will provide in His timing. If you feel led to help, it would mean the world to me and my students. 💛 
-> https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2PA5A7D911SGY?ref_=wl_share
Prayer doesn’t have to be complicated. Some day Prayer doesn’t have to be complicated.

Some days my prayers are long, other days they’re just a whispered “help.” But one of my favorite tools for staying rooted in conversation with God is the P.R.A.Y. framework:

P — Praise
Begin by worshiping God for who He is.
💬 “Lord, You are faithful, good, and full of mercy.”

R — Repent
Confess where you’ve fallen short, and rest in His grace.
💬 “Forgive me for rushing ahead of You and for my impatience.”

A — Ask
Bring your needs (and the needs of others) to Him.
💬 “Give me wisdom for the decisions ahead and peace in my waiting.”

Y — Yield
Surrender your plans to Him and listen for His leading.
💬 “I release my agenda. Align my heart with Yours.”

You can use P.R.A.Y. in the morning, in a journal, while doing dishes, or before bed—it’s less about the “how” and more about the “Who.”

💌 I shared this full guide (plus a printable version you can tuck in your Bible) in my weekly email this week.
Not on the list yet? Join now so you never miss a resource or encouragement drop — the link is in my bio.

💬 Do you already have a prayer rhythm? Or is this a tool you’d use?
👩🏼‍🏫 TEACHER FRIENDS 🍎 I need you - 👩🏼‍🏫 TEACHER FRIENDS 🍎

I need you - especially if you are teaching elementary ed (EVEN BETTER if it’s third grade 😆)! 

I have been nose deep in so many things the last couple weeks as I really prep for Fall! I would love to know a couple things if you’re willing to share;

1. Must have teacher supplies
2. Favorite ways to set up your room
3. Any and all resources for literally everything.
4. Things to add to an amazon wishlist
5. Best books - or ideas for how to create a perfect mini classroom library

I would be so grateful for any and all suggestions, recommendations, and encouragement!
I’ve been told I’m too much. Too loud. Too em I’ve been told I’m too much.

Too loud. Too emotional. Too honest.

But ya know what—I’m not trying to shrink myself to fit in.

I’m here for the ones who’ve felt the same.

The anxious mamas, the overthinkers, the rebels learning grace.

The women who love Jesus but still carry questions—and a whole lot of fire.

I don’t write perfect words.
But I pray they point to a perfect God.

Lately, I’ve watched people unsubscribe from my emails—some I’ve known for years.

It stings. 

Not because I need a big list, but because I want my words to matter.

And maybe you get that too.

So I keep writing.

Not for applause, or metrics, or even to be understood— 

but because I know I’m called to.

So if you’ve ever felt like a contradiction—too much and not enough—
I think you’ll feel at home here.

This space is for the misfits, the tender-hearted, the faith-filled + still figuring-it-out.

You’re not alone.

✨ I send weekly reflections by email—real, honest, anchored.

You can subscribe below or at the link in my bio if you’re craving something deeper than just another post. ↓

#faithfulandfeisty #redeemedrebel #anchoredbyhope #whyIwrite
🍎 THIRD GRADE HERE I COME! 👩🏼‍🏫 I st 🍎 THIRD GRADE HERE I COME! 👩🏼‍🏫
I still can’t believe I’m typing this…
This fall, I’ll be stepping into the classroom as a third grade teacher at Christian Liberty Academy!

Yes, I’m excited to teach. But what I’m really excited about is sharing what God has done to bring me here—because this story started over 10 years ago.

In 2013, I walked into CLA for a memorial honoring Mike’s brother. I was a brand-new believer, and something about the place just wrecked me in the best way.
I left in tears, whispering, “I want to teach here.”

But I was a hairstylist with no plans for school. That dream felt wild and impossible.

Two years later, I applied to Moody Bible Institute. Not only was I accepted, but they took all my beauty school credits. A miracle.

Over the years, God kept weaving CLA into our lives—through friends, connections, and redemption stories I could’ve never planned.

When we enrolled Andy in kindergarten there, that same homecoming feeling returned. But with littles at home, we homeschooled for a few years.

Then last fall, God stirred our hearts again. I submitted my resume in faith… not knowing what job (if any) was available.

Fast forward: CLA called.
I thought it was for Bible class.
Instead… they offered me third grade.

It was more than I could’ve ever dreamed.
The moment I stepped into the classroom, I felt it deep in my bones—this is where I’m meant to be.

Only God could take a rebel-hearted hairstylist with nothing but questions…
and turn her into a teacher with a calling.

From salon chairs to classroom desks—He did it.
He planted me right where my heart first whispered, “I want to be here.”

All glory to the One who does immeasurably more than we could ask or imagine.

#ThirdGradeTeacher #GodWroteThis #OnlyGod #AnchoredByHope #TeacherTestimony #ChristianLibertyAcademy #FaithJourney
Motherhood is such a contradiction. It will bring Motherhood is such a contradiction.

It will bring you to your knees in worship and in weariness.

It’s the greatest gift—and the greatest sacrifice.

A holy calling that asks for your whole heart, your whole self, and somehow, gives you even more in return.

Motherhood is late nights and early mornings.

It’s sticky kisses, tearful prayers, and deep, unspoken joys.

It’s the ache of pouring out—and the awe of being loved so fiercely by little hearts who see you as home.

To be a mama is to live in the tension:
of holding on and letting go, of losing yourself and somehow finding more of who God created you to be.

And today, while we honor the beauty and blessing of motherhood, we also hold space for the brokenhearted.

For the women who long for a child.
For those grieving a mama they can’t call today.
For those with strained relationships, losses, or longings.

You are seen. You are loved. You are not forgotten.

Happy Mother’s Day—to the weary, the wonder-filled, and the waiting.

May you feel the love of a God who sees it all and calls it holy.

#iamanchoredbyhope #herviewfromhome #motherhood #mothersday #madetolove #mama

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