Through all the life events and ministry opportunities we have encountered, that desire has stayed with me. Early in our marriage I completed a technical degree program for day work. I worked in a daycare for several years before entering the insurance field, where I worked for over ten years. After adopting our three youngest children, I left my job in the insurance industry to become a full-time mother. During all of these transitions, I was still in the role of a pastor's wife. Pastoral care gave me the opportunity to teach all ages, which I enjoyed. Our last and current pastorate gave me the opportunity to be the Director of Children's Ministry (along with many other responsibilities). I loved this job, but it only reminded me of my lifelong goal: to become a teacher. Several months ago my husband encouraged me to follow my dream. After soliciting advice from Gastonia natives, I was directed to Belmont Abbey College. I have been a student for four months now and my experience here has been completely rewarding. I'm not just pursuing a goal, I'm truly enjoying the educational journey I'm on. I continue to work at our church in many roles, as well as balancing family responsibilities. To say that this creates a busy life for me would be an understatement; however, I find that my education is reinforcing my other obligations instead of draining me