At 12 years old, my life took a dramatic turn. My parents gave up custody of me and abandoned me to navigate a path that no child should have to face alone. But even in the pain and uncertainty, God’s hand was steady on my life.
That season taught me resilience. It taught me to listen closely for the voice of God—in the small, beautiful details most people overlook. I found Him in the sound of birds in the morning, the smell of coffee brewing, and the joy of laughter shared. Over time, my brokenness became a place of deep dependence on Him—and in that, I discovered strength, identity, and purpose.
Through Scripture, journaling, and learning from others’ stories, I slowly began to heal. At 19, I married Jeff, and together we built a life marked by faith, hard work, and the desire to break generational cycles. We were determined to raise a family that honored God, and to be the kind of steady, loving presence we didn’t grow up with. It took grit. There were lonely seasons. But through God’s grace, we built a marriage that’s lasted over 40 years—and a life we are deeply thankful for.
Today, I serve as the librarian at Crawford Woods Elementary, right in the heart of the community that shaped me. It’s more than a job—it’s a calling. I get to pour into students every day, speak life over them, and create a space where they feel seen, safe, and valued. I don’t take that lightly. I know what it means to need that kind of presence in your life.
I also volunteer in the Preteen room at church on Sundays—working with girls who are the same age I was when my world shifted. It’s a privilege to walk with them through their questions, their struggles, and their dreams. My goal isn’t to fix them, but to remind them they are never alone—and that their story can be full of hope and purpose.
One of my favorite reminders is a quote from Pastor Paul: “Be a contributor, not a consumer.” That’s how I want to live—showing up for the people God places in front of me and making each day count. I believe there are no coincidences—only divine appointments. And I am incredibly thankful that what was once my greatest hardship has become the very place of my greatest impact.
Christ before me, Christ beside me, Christ within me.
This life is a gift—and I’m determined to live it with gratitude, purpose, and joy.