By: Tina Stumpfhauser

"Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect." 

Romans 12:2 (NLT)

Hello, Beautiful friend!

It's such an honor to have this opportunity to share a little about myself with you. I'm Tina Stumpfhauser, the Women's Ministry Coordinator at our Lutz location. 

Honestly, if I could, I would love to sit down for coffee with each and every one of you reading this. I'm so serious! One of the things I enjoy most about my role is the chance to meet new people, hear their stories and connect through sharing, laughter and prayer. I just wish there were more hours in the day!

I came to truly know Jesus when I was in college, and my life changed forever—best gift ever! I married my amazing husband in 2001, and we were blessed with a daughter in 2004 and a son in 2007. Motherhood! I'm telling you, “Mama” is my favorite title. Even before becoming a mom, God placed it in my heart to be a mama full of grace, full of understanding, full of compassion. Parenting with a grace-based heart that wasn't shameful or punitive was always my intention, and that has been my passion for 21 years. (Oh, and pray for me, because my youngest just graduated from high school and I'm not sure I'm ready for this empty nest scenario!)

I've called Grace Family Church my church for over 25 years. I've had a few moves along the way, but Grace has been my home for a long time, and women's ministry has been my heart forever. I can't do life without my beautiful sisters in Christ. 

Here’s a few fun facts about me: I'm a night owl, always have been. Going to bed before midnight doesn't even feel right. I was born and raised right here in Tampa. (There's not many of us.) My beverage of choice is fresh-brewed southern sweet tea. My preferred way to communicate (if I'm not able to talk to you in person) is through the Marco Polo app. And my favorite thing to do, right after spending time with Jesus and my people, is shopping. I love shopping. But I'm super frugal, so it has to be clearance deals at department stores, thrifting or my go-to spots like T.J.Maxx and Ross. Shopping is my happy place. Pair it with coffee in hand and one of my besties, and I'm in heaven!

You might be wondering why this blog is titled "Life Is Delicious." Well, isn't it? It absolutely is to me! It's honestly just a cute little phrase that I admittedly stole from one of the sweetest characters out there: Strawberry Shortcake. It's hers. But it's mine now, too. These three little words became my life motto back in 2000 as I walked through an extremely challenging time. I kept reminding myself how God gave us our lives. He gave me my life. He gave you yours. There's so much to be thankful for. It's a rollercoaster indeed, but it's worth every twist and turn, and I'm just beyond grateful. 

Which leads me to my life verse, Romans 12:2 (NLT): "Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect." The world is loud and it tries to trick us all day long. It's full of lies and confusion. But we must be strong in the Lord. We must look to Him and ask 

Him to transform our minds, our hearts and our decisions to align with His will for our lives. We must surrender to Him because He knows best. In that spot, my sweet friends, is where we find freedom. And that makes life delicious!

Big hugs, from me to you!