Hello to my Family, Friends and Fellow RACERS!!

My name is Marissa Pratt, 23 years old and married to the
most amazing man, Johnny “knuckle dragger” Pratt. We live in Raleigh, NC
with our baby boy, Rocky, a husky who thinks he is a person.

I was born and raised in Raleigh. Although I didn’t grow up in a
Christian home, my Mom says I always had a fire for “something else” at an
early age. That “something else” was presented to me at age 11, when I was introduced to
a Christian sports camp in Westfield,
NC known as The Vineyard, where I continued to attend and work until college. I can’t
say my life was changed overnight, I wouldn’t even say anything dramatic
happened over 10 years… But, the accumulation of knowledge, experiences, loving
parents & friends and a fire to seek out our Savior has slowly
shaped my life to allow an intimate relationship with the Lord.

I am proud to be a Mountaineer – A graduate of Appalachian
State University in May 2006. My life was forever changed after meeting the
amazing people of ASU, one of which I fell in love with and married shortly
after graduation. It wasn’t until college that my life was overflowing with
amazing opportunities of fellowship and growth.

Currently, I work as a Catering Director for a local
catering operation. Most would say I work too much, but I would say that I am
overly passionate about doing the absolute best I can do in the opportunities
He presents for me. Every obstacle becomes a lesson learned and every lesson
learned creates a new perspective and with a new perspective, I grow closer to
our Creator and more receptive to the plan He has in store for me.

I am constantly being molded, but below are some current
characteristics and random truths I want to share:

I don’t have all the answers, but I may try to convince you
that I do.
Oreos are a critical component of my diet.
Independent.
I like to defy the odds.
I love skiing, biking and amusement parks.
I’ve always wanted to live in an African slum.
Money does not motivate me.
I enjoy stability and predictability, but welcome change.
Perfectionist.
I analyze situations and words frequently.
People, results & service oriented.
I am not good at following the rules.
I listen well, but speak more.
Never been outside the U.S.

I am super excited about the opportunity to travel the world for a year with my husband, sister-in-law, brother-in-law and 30+ new friends, all the while sharing the Gospel with people around the globe. I look forward to the opportunity to learn that life is not about me. I am eager to live a life that resembles that of Jesus Christ, a life that is not determined by my own initiatives, fears and preconceptions. I can not wait to lay down my life for the Lord and rejoice in His power and love for the nations. I am certain that the day will come when my life is no longer MY life, but a life completely devoted to carrying out the will of God.

Hallelujah!