Hello


I've been told time and time again I should be blogging. I'm not sure why anyone would be particularly interested in me, but I decided today, August 8, 2024 is the day and I'm going to start making this blog something that I share regularly. I guess to start I should share a little about myself for those who don't know me on a personal level.


I'm 40 years old, I work as a professional photographer, artist, and for the past four years I have been working in our public schools as a multicoverage substitute teacher. Basically, I'm a built- in substitute. However, when I'm not subbing I will do reading and enrichment activities with grades K-5 daily. I love my jobs. I love that I can be creative in each one. Speaking of creativity, that has always been my strong suit. I am a multipotentialite.


Besides my artistic abilities I love to cook, bake, and prepare everything I can homemade. We have a large family and what started as almost a necessity to cut expenses turned into something that I really enjoy. I preserve all of our fruits, jams, vegetables, sauces and more during the summer. Fresh bread is made weekly. I'm a firm believer in knowing where your food comes from and having the knowledge to prepare things appropriately. I'll be sharing some of my favorite recipes, tips, tricks, trials and errors here as well.


I struggled with my weight from childhood and well into adulthood. I remember dieting in elementary school. I finally made the decision to have bariatric surgery in 2018 to get a grip on what had controlled me for so long. I lost over 120 pounds. My goal was to run a Disney race. I have since earned over 55 medals, ran 2 full marathons (both Dopey Challenges), over a dozen half marathons, and am continuing my health journey. Are there ups and downs? Of course, I will always struggle with my weight but at least I have a what I need to help me.


I value my friendships, and I am fortunate to have the best people in my life. I am so grateful for the people who love and support me on so many levels. Fresh flowers are a must for me as is an annual trip to Disney World (yes, I am a Disney adult I guess). Finding my joy has been my focus the past few years after years of feeling unworthy of being happy.


Finally, my husband and I are the parents of five children ages 17, 15, 14, 13, and 7. We have two Jack Russell Terriers, Merry Puppins and Indiana Bones. Finding balance in my life is always a struggle but we are managing the best that we can. We love to travel and have new experiences. Here's to sharing those new experiences, the joys, the struggles and everything in between with you as well.