What TV shows did you watch as a kid?

I grew up in a household with a single working mom and two sisters. We had no car or t.v.growing up. It was riding our bikes everywhere we needed to go and our entertainment was books and the radio!  I thought I had achieved a life of luxury when I started babysitting at the age of 16 and I was allowed t.v. privileges at the homes where I worked.  I got addicted to Miami Vice!  Long live Sonny!

What’s your favorite time of day?

My favorite is the end of the evening when my husband and I and our kids are all back gathered together under one roof from our respective jobs and we visit for a bit. Then I light a candle, have a cup of tea and will read in bed for about 30 minutes, reflect on what I can be grateful for from that day.

What’s your favorite recipe?

I love traditions, especially during the holidays. Two of our favorite recipes were passed down from my husband’s grandmother. One is called “cinnamon salad” and is made with cinnamon red hot candies, plain applesauce and any red jello.  It is a festive color and the zing from the red hot candies is Yum!  The second is called “Fat Man’s Misery” – sorry I realize the title is not politically correct but that’s what it was called.  😊 It is made with crushed Oreo cookies, real butter, vanilla, and heavy whipping cream you beat by hand for the filling. Then it’s served frozen.  My husband will picket in front of the house if it is not made each Christmas

Tell us about the last thing you got excited about.

My daughter has been working on a new book in collaboration with her best friend for almost two years. It was picked up by an editor and they are working on the final edits before it’s published and released. 

How would you design the city of the future?

My city of the future would be nature-driven.  With trees, bodies of water, flowers and gardens everywhere. I would love to have hand painted little free libraries on every corner where passersby could have a free book.  I would design it to remove the technology overload that encompasses our world right now

Where did your name come from?

I was named after a great aunt on my grandmother’s side. Elaine is not a name you hear much anymore and it means ray of light or bright light, which seems fitting because I am always trying to keep a smile on my face and brighten someone’s day.

What motivates you?

First my faith in God.  It motivates me to live with a purpose, to treat others with kindness, love and respect.  Second, my family.  I love every chance I get to help them succeed, to celebrate their achievements or lift them up when life hurts.  Lastly,  a great cup of coffee.  It can do wonders. 😁

What are your top ten favorite movies?

10.  Beverly hills cop 9. Bourne identity 8. Bourne supremacy 7. Bourne ultimatum 6. Mission impossible 5. Inside out 4. Despicable Me 3. Braveheart 2. Home Alone the original 1. Gladiator

What do you enjoy most about writing?

I love writing because it allows me to be introspective. It reminds me to be grateful especially when I see the blessings I list for others to read.  It reminds me that I got through hard things before and I can again. Writing gives me an outlet to be inspiring to others. Whether my posts make them laugh, smile, cry or gives them hope.

What do you love about where you live?

Washington has been our new home for almost a year now.  I love that there is no state income tax, I love that I see Mount Rainier every morning.  I love the weather, cooler and this past winter we had ONE day with snow flurries.  I love the towering trees and lush greenery.