Hi, I’m Michelle (or “MJ”) and I’m from Costa Mesa, California – in the Orange County area. I’ve lived in So Cal all my life and definitely love it here. I live only about 5 minutes from the beach (& I’m a big fan) so it works out pretty nicely.

 
But that’s not to say I don’t like traveling elsewhere – because I absolutely love that too. I work in marketing for a travel company called Contiki (tours for 18-35 year olds) and I have been blessed to visit a few places while working there, including France, England, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, Greece and Turkey. Next in the pipeline… I leave for a trip to Australia this week which I’m totally stoked about! 

 

Although I’ve considered myself a Christian since I was six years old, it’s really been over the past year and a half I have actually started living out my faith. This last December I was able to do a missions trip to South Africa with a team from my church. It blew my mind and paved the way to my decision to join the World Race.

My family – they only live about an hour away so I see them often. I have 3 younger sisters, all who still live at home with my parents (my dad is totally outnumbered!) My sisters and I are very different from each other but we are extremely close. They are my best friends.

A bit more… I am a dedicated Angels & Lakers fan (gotta represent!) The only TV shows I really care about are the Office and Top Chef.  Favorite holiday hands down is Christmas.  Meeting new people is fun.  I love discovering random, little known bands.  You can find me game to participate in racquetball, tennis, longboarding (skateboarding), softball, basketball, running, wakeboarding, snowboarding and surfing.  I can be a bit competitive.  I’m kind of obsessed with v-neck t shirts.  The beach always puts me in a great mood.  Starbucks is part of my daily routine.  I hate scary movies.  I really like barbequing.