I like to be outside as much as I can, and feel refreshed when I am in nature. I enjoy going on hikes or even just walking to the park to play with my dog, Marge. My favorite thing in the whole world is taking a horse on a trail ride in large open spaces.

Ever since I have been a little girl I have been drawn to children (even if they were just a year or two younger than me) and wanted to care for them and support them. My mom always reminds me of Christmas at my grandparent’s house when I was eight years old, and I took over bath and feeding time of my five younger cousins on my own. When I was old enough to get a job, I became a nanny for two sets of twins (5 year olds and infants).

I have always had a strong connection to animals of all shapes and sizes! I competitively rode horses for over a decade and love the unspoken connection that is created with horses. I now have a dog of my own but I still always keep an extra leash in my car in case I see a stray dog!

I really value my relationships and appreciate the people in my life, whether it be friends or family. I always try to be there and offer support when I can. I think it is important to grow close connections with “your” people to help maintain a strong mutual support system.

I think life is meant to be lived and it should be full of memorable experiences. While we may not be skydiving in the class, I hope to create exciting and memorable activities for my students. We have to teach/learn the material, so might as well make is as thrilling as we can (and that only helps retention rates)!