“Be joyful ALWAYS, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
~1 Thessalonians 5:16-18~
 
I have never done a blog in my life and I really have a hard time filling out these “about me” thingys, because I’m not sure how to put myself into words. But I guess there’s a first time for everything!

I am 22 years old from basically everywhere. I grew up in an Air Force family so technically, home was wherever the Air Force sent us. I was born in Aghana, Guam and I really wish I could remember it because it seems absolutely beautiful! I think we moved a total of 9 times and my family has actually been in San Antonio for the past 8 years. I recently graduated from Abilene Christian University, and am currently living in Houston working and finding ways to keep myself occupied until I leave. I really didn’t want to do anything with my life but travel and teach to the world and let the world teach to me. A real job really isn’t enough to me when I daily crave for something more. The World Race is probably one of the most amazing things I have ever heard of and I can’t wait to start!

I grew up with an amazing family that supported every ridiculous decision I’ve ever made, that love me for who I am, and are always there for me when I need them. My parents, in my eyes, are the perfect Christian role models, although I’m sure they beg to differ! I have three older sisters that I think are some of the most incredible women out there and I’m not really sure where I would be without them. I have been surrounded my whole life by amazing friends that make me want to do better daily and never cease to make me smile.
 
  Overall, I consider my life to be blessed. My life isn’t perfect by any means, I mean everyone has their ups and downs to life, and I have definitely had my fair share of feeling hopeless and helpless in my lifetime. But I don’t like spending too much time focusing on the downs. Yes I believe that the downs make you stronger, and they have proven to do so in my life.   However, I believe they only make you stronger when you are able to trust enough to let go, to completely surrender, let go and let God change you.  I believe that the downs of life are beautiful blessings that reveal your true happiness and the ups just further strengthen that happiness. Together they lead to an everlasting joy.

Here’s a little bit about me. 

You should probably know that I am one of the most random people in the world!

I do love me some Jesus.  He IS the reason for who I am and everything I’m about.  I cant even imagine where I’d be without Him.

People constantly amaze me. I thrive on daily interactions with people. I consider every person I interact with as a teacher. I’ve learned something from everyone I’ve ever encountered in my life. Every relationship I have ever had has been a blessing, and I know that will only continue on this trip!

I consider every day an adventure. In fact, I thrive on it.  I believe in living each day to the absolute fullest, conquering your fears, and going big at all times.  

I firmly believe that childlike joy heals the soul. I seek joy in every single instance in life and strive to show that light to others daily. I am a child at heart. And I am completely ok with that.  Although some people tend to think of it as immaturity, I think they’re wrong! I find the simplest things entertaining. More importantly, I strive to maintain faith like a child and secure the fact that the joy of the lord is always my strength. Childlike joy and passion is mind blowing to me, and it is my sincere hope to share that light with the world.

I love to travel. I feel the most like myself when I am in an unfamiliar place.  I would love to spend the rest of my life traveling the world and constantly being surrounded by new things! (the main character in ‘eat, pray, love’ is my hero!)

I am absolutely obsessed with music.  I do believe that music speaks volumes and reaches people in monumental ways. I’ve recently picked up the guitar and the harmonica. Next on the list is the banjo!

I love nature and the outdoors.  I actually almost hate being inside. I like to be outside just doing anything. I’ve been known to go on bike rides that last for hours and running until I want to pass out.  I believe that being outside and enjoying God’s beautiful creation is one of the greatest gifts we have!

I am slightly obsessed with animals and everything about them. And when I say slightly I mean I could probably spend all day everyday at the zoo and never get tired of it! Owls are the jam. And Animal Planet is the only TV show I actually enjoy watching.

I live an extremely spontaneous life.  I don’t like schedules or plans. I don’t like knowing what I will be doing the next week or even the next day. I simply live my life and hope for each hour to be something beautifully unexpected. I live in the moment and make each moment as memorable and happy as they can be!

I have slept with a stuffed Simba since the first grade……and I have never washed him so I’ll let you imagine the smell. One time, I cut his hair thinking it would grow back…..but it never did.

I can fall asleep pretty much anywhere.

I absolutely love the word “Huzzah!”

I’m obsessed with anything vintage. Antique shopping makes the world go round.

I have a slight obsession with bodily functions….don’t judge me.

 
Disney movies trump any other movies ever created. Sometimes, I wish I was a Disney princess and had a song for every part of my life!
 
I stutter a lot when I am excited or upset.
 
I thoroughly enjoy coloring.
 
I truly believe that a smile, a good giggle, ice cream, and a hug is the common cure for everything!
 
AND I am absolutely stoked for this amazing experience!
 
For my teammates:
  May your heart break enough so compassion enters in
May your strength all be spent upon the weak
All the castles and crowns you build and place upon your head
May they all fall, come crashing down around your feet
May your company be of humble insignificance
May your weakness be your only source of pride
What you do unto others may it all be done to you
May you meet the One who made us
And see Him smile when life is through
May your blessings be many but not what you hoped they’d be
And when you look upon the broken
May mercy show you what you could not see
May you never be sure of any plans you desire
But you’d learn to trust the plan He has for you
May your passions be tried and tested in the holy fire
May you fight with all your life for what is true