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Do you like my boots? I couldn’t resist them when I found them last December for 50% off.

As someone who’s had her fair share of struggles with feet and shoes (don’t even get me started on the comments I’ve received after concerts 😅), I’ve learned how to prioritize comfort over style when performing.

When I was a little girl, my mother would often beg God to fix my feet as she gently massaged them. I miss those foot rubs! They were one of the few things that could bring me some comfort. But, as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that when I’m performing on stage, I want shoes that look nice but can’t always wear the fancy ones. So, I’ve found myself performing in sandals—or even barefoot at times (yes, really!).

Last December, a dear friend witnessed one of those “foot comments” firsthand and took me shopping. That’s when I discovered boots could be the solution! They are way more comfortable, and I might just have found a new favorite shoe style. Not sure what I’ll do come July, but for now, I’m enjoying these boots.

Speaking of boots, they were a huge hit at the Tandem Couples’ Retreat at Sandy Cove recently where I was the guest worship leader/musician! (Although, I must clarify, they didn’t give any relationship advice on footwear 😉). But, they sparked some great conversations, so I thought I’d share a few pictures with you.

While we’re talking about the retreat, even though my husband couldn’t go with me, all my boots came in pairs—so at least there were two of something from my life accompanying me at a couples’ retreat. Otherwise, it could’ve felt a little lonely there.

I also ‘walked’ away (get it?!) with some fantastic relationship wisdom, that I wanted to pass along:

1. The better the me, the better the we.
Take care of yourself, and your relationships will thrive. It’s hard to show up for others when we aren’t taking care of ourselves first.

2. Polish the positive.
Focus on the good stuff—our relationships grow when we highlight what’s going well.

3. Look for who they “be,” not who they “do.”
We often focus on the tasks or actions someone does, but who they are as a person is what truly matters.

4. You married 4 spouses:

• The person you thought you knew.
• The person they really are.
• The person they become after they marry you.
• The person they are becoming now.

5. Phubbing: Snubbing each other by using your phone.
A great reminder to stay present with the people around us!

And here are some meaningful questions to ask your special someone:

• How did you feel loved by me this week?
• Is there something I did that made you feel special?
• What does this week look like for you?
• What are you excited about this week?
• What are you concerned about?
• How can I encourage and support you?
• What was the most challenging part of your week?

These simple questions can really open up meaningful conversations and help strengthen connections in your relationship.

Thanks for reading and letting me share my thoughts (and boots) with you.

Just like my boots—comfortable, supportive, and ready to step into whatever comes next—relationships thrive when we show up as our best selves. Whether we’re walking through life solo or with a pair by our side, it’s the connections we nurture that carry us forward.

About Frances Drost

Frances Drost is a singer-songwriter, Billboard-charting artist (Double Keyed), speaker, and author with a passion for helping others find hope and inspiration through life’s challenges.

Her Barnes & Noble Bestseller, Portraits of White: Hope and Inspiration for Those Who Struggle with the Holidays, weaves together heartfelt stories, music, and personal reflections to guide readers toward a more meaningful and joyful season.

With over two decades of experience in music and storytelling, Frances blends authenticity with artistry, offering relatable insights for anyone navigating grief, loneliness, or the complexities of holiday traditions.

Discover more of Frances’ inspiring journey—and practical tips for overcoming holiday struggles—in Portraits of White, available now wherever books are sold.

🎶 Download a free song from the Portraits of White album at FrancesDrost.com/Miracles.