Jesus, Japan, and missions! I grew up as a missionary kid in Japan. I have an older brother and older sister. I lived in Japan until I was 11 years old, and Japan is still a big part of my life! I went to Japanese kindergarten and public school through 4th grade. Then, I went to a Christian international school. I love Japan so much, and would love to move back there some day!
We moved to America when I was 11. We moved around a lot, to small towns in Iowa and Minnesota, where my Dad was a pastor. I was homeschooled 6-12 grade, and I loved it. I grew really close to my parents, and they are still my best friends today!
I never really fit in, in America or Japan. But I have come to embrace it as a blessing. It has made me compassionate toward people who feel left out. And, it reminds me that as believers, we are not supposed to fit in in this world! “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” Philippians 3:20
After high school, I thought I would go to college for nursing. But God had better plans, and moved my family to Minneapolis, Minnesota to be near my grandparents. We soon realized Grandpa and Grandma needed more help, so I became their full time caregiver. I have been their caregiver for 3 years now.
Moving to Minneapolis was also a blessing, because I joined a young adults group at Grace Church Eden Prairie. I have found awesome Christian community and friendship with other young people!
In my free time, I love to crochet teddy bears, sew my own clothes, play my guitar, and make Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes!
My favorite food is ebi fry—Japanese fried shrimp.
Favorite hymn: Be Thou My Vision
Favorite Bible verse: “Let us not grow weary of doing what is right, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9
