My roots were planted in a home that consistently focused on faith, family, and friends. My father was a pastor and modeled how to shepherd people well. My mother loved teaching children and serving in the church. My sister and I began serving in the church, alongside our parents, as soon as we were old enough to collect the juice cups from the pew racks following each communion service. Following God and loving people, through His love, was the norm in our home. So, it was a very natural decision for me to trust God with my life at age seven. He became Lord of my life at that time. I know I am His child with a place in His eternal Kingdom.

My surroundings, conversations, and early examples of God’s love guided me to find purpose for my life. Those roots set the course for my call into a ministry during my college days. Because of the deep love God has given me for children, I knew my life purpose was to serve young children. I am drawn to and driven by the way preschoolers live life. No one on the plant lives a more abundant life than a two-, three-, or four-year-old! They can wear yellow rain boots and a handmade paper crown, while skipping, singing, and giggling, all at the same time! But be ready, they will stop on a dime to follow the ant trail or pick the wildflower that you never saw! Preschoolers live life abundantly, with freedom, and tons of fun! I love getting to be a part of this kind of simple living.

Because of God’s call, I live abundantly by leading, teaching, and caring for young children. When I slow down and follow the abundant lifestyle of a preschooler, I learn: – having less brings creativity; – playing is a better use of time; – living life in the present is most rewarding; – the detours along the route are usually more intriguing; – and speaking the truth is being wise.

God’s desire for us all to live abundantly is expressed through children. No wonder Jesus said, “What I’m about to tell you is true. You need to change and become like little children….  Anyone who welcomes a little child like this one in my name welcomes me.” Matthew 18:3 & 5 (NIrV)