My passion is, and has always been, people. Since I was small, I was gifted with the ability to speak, and more importantly, CONNECT, with people, old and young, rich and poor, Christian and non, plagued (whether it be with addiction, cancer, mental illness, disability, etc) and healthy.

Through these conversations and connections I have been afforded the opportunity to either form meaningful relationships, or simply be a brief light in a dark season of life and offer a helping hand up. All of these conversations and connections have not only allowed me to reach out to others but have helped to teach and shape me and provided me with the ability to grow and learn in my faith as I've been privy to the inner workings of Him in others.

It goes without saying that the past few years have been tough for our family, myself specifically. From financial troubles, to major health issues, spiritual strife, and mental health struggles... we've run the race and fought a good fight but, if Im being honest, more often than not I've felt defeated.

Most recently and as most know, I unexpectedly lost my job at the end of March. I've honestly just been a shell of myself and mostly without joy since then. In the weeks after it first happened, I felt like MY people were gone and I was completely out of control of the entire situation. I was stripped of my safety and my comfort and as a result I was angry, confused, and fearful.

In the past few weeks, my frazzled brain has started to put together the pieces of all that has happened over the course of the past year. If I've ever shared my testimony with you, or even just a piece of it, you've likely heard me say that "God has to punch me in the head" to get my attention. I think after not listening for a year, wanting to stay in my comfort and not wanting to let go to grow, I got that punch in March.

Since coming to that realization, I'm brought here. When you FINALLY realize God is talking y'all, you tend to be hyper vigilant in listening. At a Sunday morning service during announcements, a mission trip to Albania was briefly mentioned. I knew immediately that I needed to be a part of it. I also knew what Lyle's response would be... "There's no way we can afford that! Who's going to take care of the kids? Now is just not the time." BUT to my surprise, when I brought it up, none of those things came out of his mouth. In fact he said "Alright, we'll have to figure it out." Paint me stunned!!!

So here I am... trying to figure it out. With airfare and passport fees and all the things I need to come up with $3500 and I need to do it fast (due July 6). I have taken a HUGE step in faith and committed to this mission, stepping with the belief that provision will be there. So, if you feel it laid on your heart to contribute to my travel costs, Id sure appreciate it! If not, I'd sure appreciate you praying that I not only meet this goal but also for the lives of those that will be touched on this trip.

I'm being called loudly to leave comfort and connect with new people, to bring new sheep in to the flock of the Good Shepherd. I must answer the call! I appreciate any and all support and prayers moving forward!!! Our God is good y'all and I can't wait to once again, take Him abroad!