10 things I’ve never told you

HHappy summer! Summers are always a great time of the year: graduations, retreats, mission trips. So much of my formation happened in the summer – and so did a lot of FUN.
 
People often forget that serving God should be fun. No matter what we do – whether we’re working our jobs, raising our families, growing our businesses, or serving in ministry – His joy is supposed to be our strength.
 
So much of what’s out there these days lacks personal connection. Most people are simply afraid to really be themselves. I thought I’d have a little fun with this update, put away the polish, and share another side of me and the work we do in order to prove I’m not a robot that stays locked away working all day. Here are 10 of my own quirks, habits, and closely guarded secrets…
 

1. I don’t like pasta. Yes, I’ve tried all kinds of pasta. I don’t know what it is about it but I don’t like the taste of noodles. This baffles most people and maybe evens offends some. Sorry, but I do try it at least once, especially in culturally appropriate situations.
2. I’m not just a shy and quiet person. I may seem quiet when I first meet someone and get to know them, but I’m really deep and caring. I can be quite talkative and outgoing when you get to know me.
3. I wish I was like the little mermaid because she lives under the sea. I love the ocean (water in general). Swimming makes me feel so free and alive.
4. I love turtles. One of my life goals (bucket list) is to swim with sea turtles. The love of water plus turtles= awesomeness! *Good thing I live in the Philippines
5. I find clarity in the bathtub. Surrounded by hot water in a quiet bathroom seems to be the perfect place to think clearly. Many great ideas come to me in the bathtub. I just need to write them down quickly or I’ll forget. *too bad there are no hot baths for me in the Philippines.
6. My last name, if interpreted in Spanish, French, or Italian, means to think or thoughtful. That definitely describes me.
7. I have 13 nieces and nephews (5 girls, 8 boys) ranging from 26 to 1 ½ years old. 6 of them have graduated high school already. They make me feel old but also bring joy to my heart.
8. My favorite music artist is Keith Green. I never got to meet him or hear him in concert since he died 5 years before I was born. His lyrics speak to me and are such a testimony of what it means to live for Jesus.
9. I’ve only ever dated one man when I was in college and that’s that. The next man I date will be my husband.
10. When I was little I would always cry in the car until either my dad sang or turned on the radio. Now, I listen to Christian music almost continuously. It calms and encourages me.

Hope you learned something fun about me. I’d love to hear a bit about you! Happy summer :)