How did you discover your passion for what you do?

I have always had a passion for planning events that started in college serving as Social Chair! But when the Lord called me to leave my world traveling, comfortable job in corporate events to plan fundraisers for a non-profit pregnancy resource center, I literally laughed. At the time, I was going through infertility testing and treatment with my husband and thought, there’s no way I can work in a place surrounded by pregnant women when I would give anything to be pregnant right now. After a lot of prayers and a solid word of encouragement from my husband, I stepped out in faith and gave my career to the Lord. Every day, I become more and more passionate about helping women feel loved, supported and educated to make a decision when facing an unexpected pregnancy. As much as I wish I could say, as soon as I started the job, our battle of infertility ended. But that’s not what God had planned. Instead through my development position at Real Options, I was introduced to several amazing adoption and foster agencies. There was a new passion ignited in my heart to help and serve our most vulnerable children in the foster care system. Once you see the need, and hear the hurt, it is impossible to look at our world the same way. I may not have given birth to her, but when my four-year-old curly headed girl yells “mom,” there is nothing that will stop me from giving her the world.

How do you continue to grow and be a lifelong learner?

I have had to accept the fact that growing isn’t always a comfortable or pleasant task. There’s a reason it’s call “growing pains!” But learning how to be “ok” in midst of the mess is often when the most growth can happen. It’s in that hard time when I can turn to the Lord and ask Him to show me what I’m supposed to get out of the situation. I’m able to just look up and say, “Okay, what’s next?” Knowing that He is in control of what I’m facing will make me stronger on the other side. Being willing to admit I can’t do it all, for everyone, all the time, by myself, is a struggle. But asking for help can mean finding a new way, finding a new community and letting others become a part of the story. It’s pretty incredible! Also – podcasts! Instead of music, podcasts are the sound you’ll hear from my office on all sorts of topics. It is amazing to have the internet full of knowledge available at your fingertips. And, being willing to listen to someone else’s story – that is guaranteed to help you grow yours.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?

My work, in and outside the home is full of people. You would think that outside of work I would run to some “me” time. And yes, I do love to get outside and power through a few miles in the Texas heat, but honestly I love being with my people. A good date trying a new restaurant with husband does wonders for my soul. Meeting with girlfriends catching up on life, and Netflix is something to look forward to. Hosting game night and cooking dinner for a house full of people fills my cup!