I'm a 40's-something, divorced, and happily remarried, Midwest mom to 3 amazing kids. I received my undergrad degree in teaching from Western Michigan University, and obtained my master's in early childhood education teaching at a nature-based preschool. I have taught in some capacity for most of my life, working with children and families of all ages.

My most recent position was as a family coach and liaison through our local county’s Great Start Collaborative. In this position, I worked with a wide range of families, local agencies, and community partners, like schools, libraries, pediatricians, and more. I had so much fun planning events, connecting folks with supports, and getting to know and love our local families. I was so sad when our state’s budget eliminated this valuable early childhood grant, but I took it as my sign to shift gears and follow my creative passions.

I have a deep love for learning, teaching, and human connection. I also have an (argumentatively deeper) love for morning coffee with my husband, laughing with my teens, and force-snuggling my anti-social labradoodle, Yoshi.