I began to live when I surrendered to Jesus at age 22. Before that, I existed to please myself. After earning my Bachelor's degree in secondary English Education, I became an ELA Teacher and Writing Coach at a Christian school where I mentored high school students, taught them the art of writing and produced the school newspaper. I then became a missionary with Operation Mobilization, sailing to over 40 countries on the ship "Doulos" bringing practical aid and the message of Jesus Christ to the people I encountered. Onboard, I met my husband, a native of South Africa, and married in 2006. Together we have built a small family, lived in Hawaii, New York and Chicago. I am currently discovering a deep passion for writing, which, I believe, will become a life long calling.