Thankfully, Matthew and I had the privilege to take time out of our busy schedules to join other young people in doing mission work in Jamaica, Grand Cayman, and Honduras. The trip was well needed to say the least. Words cannot express the tremendous impact it had on us as individuals and as a married couple. Waking up to worship in service and worshipping in praise in the evenings was amazing. There is no other experience that tops being engrossed in God’s presence in the company of others who want to support you on your spiritual journey. I left feeling so motivated to continue to pursue our business goals so that we will always have the time and resources to give back.

Outside of spending time with each other, one of the main motivators in our life to work from home is service to others. Having the time and finances to help others that cannot help themselves is a privilege. I think that worshiping God is a privilege and service is a form of worship. Therefore, giving back to others is a privilege.

It’s been a crazy week but I would not change it for the world! Our 6 month anniversary was amazing. We went to the movie theater in the afternoon and it was empty. It felt as if we had privately rented the theater for our special day. It was so romantic. The movie was followed by an amazing dinner at a Greek restaurant. Although I asked my husband not to get me any gifts (to avoid having to pack anything else for our move) he completely ignored my request and made sure I felt special in the midst of our crazy week. He gave me a beautiful card that immediately had my eyes filled with tears. The message he wrote on the card was so heartfelt that it took me a second to realize that he also gifted me earrings and a perfume. What a wonderful way to celebrate our journey together!

Sometimes as a society we rationalize reasons for which we have made our own alterations to God’s plan for our relationships. I have heard some say they had to get a divorce because of “irreconcilable differences” such as Kim Kardashian. Others have told me that they only cheated because their significant other made them do it. The list goes on of excuses I have heard as to why people do what they do.  Regardless of our excuses and reasons for justifying things, the Bible is pretty clear on what God wants from us for our lives. Unfortunately, as a result of our beliefs on biblical principles, a lot of us judge those who are divorced, had a child out of wedlock, cheated, lied, etc.

In 2006 I transferred to Andrews University and was fortunate enough to join the RA (resident advisor) team immediately. During the RA training, I soon learned that I was going to make friendships that would last a lifetime. The other ladies I was working with were not going to just be co-workers or classmates-they were going to become my sisters. One of those sisters’ names is Esperanza Muniz. Her wonderful spirit and prayerful life had a great impact on me and made my time at Andrews all the more special. She has always had a special place in my heart.

Last month, Matthew and I were able to see the group Committed from NBC’s Sing Off in concert at Andrews University. We had a great time listening to the beautiful gift/opportunity God has given them. Despite their new found fame, they are still down to earth and very grateful for the opportunity they have been given. The performance was amazing and I recommend you buy their CD as soon as possible. Also, it was pretty hilarious to see girls (some that I know) falling apart with excitement at the sight of them.