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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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My littlest guy accepted Jesus into his heart last My littlest guy accepted Jesus into his heart last night đŸ„čđŸ™ŒđŸœ

I want to hold onto this moment forever so I’m sharing it here.

Last night, Simon in all his jolly joy was professing biblical truths that honestly some of us can’t even comprehend or acknowledge; Jesus is Gods son who died for us, Jesus and God are one with the Holy Spirit, Jesus died for our sins on the cross, Jesus loves us so much. 

We talked about how when we accept Jesus into our hearts, there is nothing that can ever separate us from God. I told him that one day, when he was ready, we could pray together and invite Jesus in.

He wanted to pray that instant.

So we did.

The beauty of it all is this: Simon did something that holds so many people back from an intimate and intentional relationship with our Savior—he freely and honestly admitted his need for a Savior. He acknowledged that even at 5, he is a sinner—that he falls short of the glory of God, just like all of us (Romans 3:23).

But he also understands this: that it is while we are still sinners that Christ died for us.

I’ll be honest—when I first gave my life to Jesus at 23, it was hard for me to understand how someone so young could truly grasp faith like this. But God, in His sweet and perfect sense of humor, gave me three little ones who would.

I pray that my children would continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ, and that they would love the Lord their God with all their heart, mind, soul, and strength all the days of their lives.

If you’ve been waiting—feeling like you need to have it all figured out first—you don’t. Faith can begin in the simplest, most honest prayer.

And if you’ve walked with Jesus for years, I pray this encourages you to return to that childlike faith—the kind that simply believes, trusts, and receives His love.
As a 3rd grade teacher, I get asked all the time: As a 3rd grade teacher, I get asked all the time:

“What books should my child be reading?”

And honestly
 the kids who are growing the most in reading right now aren’t always reading the “hardest” books — they’re the ones who actually enjoy what they’re reading.

So I wanted to share a few things my students genuinely love right now:

📚 Read-aloud favorites
My class still gets SO excited for Nibbles (every time 😂) and they love longer stories too — we’ve read things like Cordelia and even The Wingfeather Saga, and they are completely locked in. Kids really do rise to the level of great stories when you read them together.

📚 Early chapter books
Nate the Great is still a favorite in my room — those confidence-building books matter so much at this age.

📚 For kids who think they “don’t like reading”
The Shine-a-Light books are constantly being picked up in my classroom. Something about the interactive element just clicks for those kids.

📚 For kids who love action/adventure
The I Survived series is HUGE right now. If your child loves those, they’re drawn to fast-paced, high-interest stories — which is such a great place to build from.

📚 Fun nonfiction lovers
My class is obsessed with question-and-answer books and 100 fact books — they love flipping, exploring, and learning random facts to share with each other.

Honestly, my classroom is kind of filled with these types of books (mostly thanks to generous teacher friends) because they’re the ones kids actually reach for.

If you ever feel stuck finding the right book for your child, I’m always happy to help đŸ€

And if you want to browse, I did put a bunch of these favorites together in one place.
Feeling so grateful đŸ€ Thank you for all the birthd Feeling so grateful đŸ€ Thank you for all the birthday love—your time and words mean more than you know.

38 started off pretty sweet —literally 😆 Donuts and cannolis from Allegretis for breakfast, a protein latte in hand, a shutout win at the rink, and a mother–son skate with my boys.

Grateful for this life and the many blessings I’m so aware of.
Progress pictures đŸ„°đŸ„° I am so blessed đŸ„č. And not Progress pictures đŸ„°đŸ„° 
I am so blessed đŸ„č.

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 đŸ€Ș. 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 dĂ©cor 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! đŸ„č 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 days 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?
đŸ‘©đŸŒâ€đŸ« TEACHER FRIENDS 🍎 I need you - especially if đŸ‘©đŸŒâ€đŸ« 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 - ïżŒor ideas for how to create a perfect mini classroom library

I would be so grateful for any and all suggestions, recommendations, and encouragement!

Follow @iamanchoredbyhope

My littlest guy accepted Jesus into his heart last My littlest guy accepted Jesus into his heart last night đŸ„čđŸ™ŒđŸœ

I want to hold onto this moment forever so I’m sharing it here.

Last night, Simon in all his jolly joy was professing biblical truths that honestly some of us can’t even comprehend or acknowledge; Jesus is Gods son who died for us, Jesus and God are one with the Holy Spirit, Jesus died for our sins on the cross, Jesus loves us so much. 

We talked about how when we accept Jesus into our hearts, there is nothing that can ever separate us from God. I told him that one day, when he was ready, we could pray together and invite Jesus in.

He wanted to pray that instant.

So we did.

The beauty of it all is this: Simon did something that holds so many people back from an intimate and intentional relationship with our Savior—he freely and honestly admitted his need for a Savior. He acknowledged that even at 5, he is a sinner—that he falls short of the glory of God, just like all of us (Romans 3:23).

But he also understands this: that it is while we are still sinners that Christ died for us.

I’ll be honest—when I first gave my life to Jesus at 23, it was hard for me to understand how someone so young could truly grasp faith like this. But God, in His sweet and perfect sense of humor, gave me three little ones who would.

I pray that my children would continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ, and that they would love the Lord their God with all their heart, mind, soul, and strength all the days of their lives.

If you’ve been waiting—feeling like you need to have it all figured out first—you don’t. Faith can begin in the simplest, most honest prayer.

And if you’ve walked with Jesus for years, I pray this encourages you to return to that childlike faith—the kind that simply believes, trusts, and receives His love.
As a 3rd grade teacher, I get asked all the time: As a 3rd grade teacher, I get asked all the time:

“What books should my child be reading?”

And honestly
 the kids who are growing the most in reading right now aren’t always reading the “hardest” books — they’re the ones who actually enjoy what they’re reading.

So I wanted to share a few things my students genuinely love right now:

📚 Read-aloud favorites
My class still gets SO excited for Nibbles (every time 😂) and they love longer stories too — we’ve read things like Cordelia and even The Wingfeather Saga, and they are completely locked in. Kids really do rise to the level of great stories when you read them together.

📚 Early chapter books
Nate the Great is still a favorite in my room — those confidence-building books matter so much at this age.

📚 For kids who think they “don’t like reading”
The Shine-a-Light books are constantly being picked up in my classroom. Something about the interactive element just clicks for those kids.

📚 For kids who love action/adventure
The I Survived series is HUGE right now. If your child loves those, they’re drawn to fast-paced, high-interest stories — which is such a great place to build from.

📚 Fun nonfiction lovers
My class is obsessed with question-and-answer books and 100 fact books — they love flipping, exploring, and learning random facts to share with each other.

Honestly, my classroom is kind of filled with these types of books (mostly thanks to generous teacher friends) because they’re the ones kids actually reach for.

If you ever feel stuck finding the right book for your child, I’m always happy to help đŸ€

And if you want to browse, I did put a bunch of these favorites together in one place.
Feeling so grateful đŸ€ Thank you for all the birthd Feeling so grateful đŸ€ Thank you for all the birthday love—your time and words mean more than you know.

38 started off pretty sweet —literally 😆 Donuts and cannolis from Allegretis for breakfast, a protein latte in hand, a shutout win at the rink, and a mother–son skate with my boys.

Grateful for this life and the many blessings I’m so aware of.
Progress pictures đŸ„°đŸ„° I am so blessed đŸ„č. And not Progress pictures đŸ„°đŸ„° 
I am so blessed đŸ„č.

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 đŸ€Ș. 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 dĂ©cor 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! đŸ„č 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 days 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?
đŸ‘©đŸŒâ€đŸ« TEACHER FRIENDS 🍎 I need you - especially if đŸ‘©đŸŒâ€đŸ« 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 - ïżŒor ideas for how to create a perfect mini classroom library

I would be so grateful for any and all suggestions, recommendations, and encouragement!

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