We’re the Bullards — a Texas-born, faith-driven family answering God’s call to Dumbarton, Scotland. For the next two years, we’ll be serving the local church and community, walking alongside others with the love of Christ through discipleship, outreach, and hospitality.

This mission is fueled by prayer, sustained by generosity, and anchored in purpose-driven work.

That’s why we’ve built two branches of Thistles & Thorns:

• Thistles & Thorns Holdings LLC — a veteran-owned small business creating faith-inspired apparel and goods designed to spark conversation, encourage hearts, and point people to Jesus.

• Thistles & Thorns Foundation — a nonprofit 501(c)(3) dedicated to funding missions, retreats, and ministries, with full transparency and accountability. (Not currently recognized by the IRS as “Tax Exempt” - our Foundation is awaiting the State Tax Id from Sec of State - to file with IRS)

Together, they will allow us to “do the right thing and do things right.” The business fuels creativity and outreach, while the Foundation ensures that every donation is stewarded solely for Kingdom impact.

We’re Calen and Candice, proud parents to two incredible kids, and this is truly a family mission. We’ve traded comfort zones for Kingdom purpose, trusting that God will do something meaningful in Scotland through us.

Whether it’s mentoring youth, supporting local ministry, hosting retreats, or simply being faithful neighbors, we are here to love consistently and live generously.

This site is a hub for both our shop and our story. You’ll find updates, photos, prayer requests, and mission moments — along with a collection of apparel and goods created with intention.

When you shop or give, you’re not just supporting us — you’re joining a Kingdom story. Every purchase, every prayer, every gift helps carry this mission forward.

Thank you for being here. Thank you for believing in the power of ordinary families doing extraordinary things through faith.

With gratitude and grace,
The Bullards