Manda Carpenter
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Manda Carpenter is a writer, speaker, and advocate committed to helping people grow in their relationship with God, self and others. Her first book, Space, is a 30-day devotional to help people create sustainable rhythms of work, play, and rest. Her second book, Soul Care to Save Your Life, reveals the journey of when she hit rock bottom and how radical honesty led to real healing. In addition to
04/29/2026
My dad lost his intense, short battle with cancer on April 25, 2026. 🕊️
It’s hard to believe since the man had nine lives. (If you know, you know.)
Our relationship was restored and grew stronger over the last decade. In the final three months of his life, I flew to visit him for a weekend, and we talked nearly every single day. I’ll always be grateful for that time.
He was far from perfect, but what meant so much to me was how sincerely he owned his past mistakes and apologized, more than once.
He never missed a chance to tell me he loved me and that he was proud of me. I will never question those things.
He adored his grandkids, and would drive any distance just to see them even if it was only for a couple of hours.
There are so many things that will always remind me of him:
- Mountain Dew.🥤
- Marlboro Reds. 🚬
- Any song by Linkin Park.🎸
- Pizza from The Frog.🍕
- Motocross.🏍️
- Lake Wawasee days on the boat.🚤
- Drag strip racing.🏎️
- Stetson cologne.👃🏼
- Orange margaritas from Hacienda.🍹
- And of course, his lifelong line I rolled my eyes at constantly growing up: “Do as I say, not as I do.”🙄
Well Dad… you don’t have to worry, I won’t be picking up a smoking habit. But I am undeniably your kid. You passed down more than enough:
* An unbelievable work ethic
* Relentless stubbornness
* Independence
* Blue eyes
* Belief that anything is possible
* Ability to sleep through a fire alarm
* A heart for the underdog
* Generous spirit
Thank you for the ways you shaped me into the woman I am today. I’m committed to living my life to the fullest… leaning into joy now instead of waiting for the “right” time.
I’ll honor your legacy, and I’ll make sure your three grandchildren know how deeply they were loved by their Pops.
Until we meet again, dad, rest in peace 🤍
03/10/2026
👶🏼🌙 Roadtrip. Cozy airstream. Bonfires and hiking. Reading by the creek, talking without interruption, sleeping without an alarm. No cell service. Just a slow, quiet weekend together before baby no. 3 comes and everything changes again. Grateful it’s all with you,
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