Christina relocated from Portland Oregon to Tijuana Mexico with her 4 children after the deportation of her husband in 2010. This was a huge adjustment for her and her family as they had never even been to Mexico. After being with her husband for 13 years and coming from a broken home herself she knew this was the right decision to follow her husband so that her kids could be with their dad.

Life was extremely difficult as there was no work for her as an American and the pay for her husband in Mexico was not enough to support 4 kids and two adults. While she was awaiting the deportation of her husband she found a beading kit in a local Target. She started by making beaded lanyards and soon all of the ladies at her job were placing orders.

Soon after moving to Mexico her savings ran out she needed a way to bring in income so she got the idea to make and sell jewelry. She started selling at the local street markets and friends in her church. Life in Mexico has not been easy as her family lived in extreme poverty. Living without the basic necessities of running water and electricity. There were times of eating just rice for two weeks straight or only enough food for the kids eat. There was no money for diapers for her 1 year old son or even feminine products when needed. To add to it all she had two more “miracle children“ after having a medical procedure to never get pregnant again. Through it all God has been faithful and has brought her family so far.

Things are not as bad as they once were but still very difficult living in another country. Making jewelry is not only about selling and making income but is also like therapy. Beading brings a sense of peace and calmness when all around her feels like chaos. There is so much more to her story but not enough space for it all. God has given her an amazing testimony of his love, faithfulness.