How do you unwind after a demanding day?

My unwinding is usually the final part of my day.  I get hugs from the family and the pets before I turn in for the night. Then it’s a hot shower with eucalyptus shower steamers, a cup of elderberry tea with ashwaghanda, lighting a candle and then reading for 30 minutes by candlelight.  Then going to sleep to sounds of the ocean on the sleep sounds app. 

How do you use social media?

Since I have been relocated almost 1900 miles away from close family and friends, I use social media to stay connected to the ones I love even though distance may separate us. I use it for education: learning budget tips, new recipes, fun life hacks.  I use it for encouragement.  I love doing a weekly motivational post on my LinkedIn page and hope it encourages someone.

Jot down the first thing that comes to your mind.

Grateful I made it through a stressful work week.  Grateful it is my weekend rotation off.  Grateful I will enjoy breakfast with my husband tomorrow. 

Describe a random encounter with a stranger that stuck out positively to you.

During this past Christmas season my husband lost his job so he and I started side hustling as door dash drivers until he found work. One evening we delivered dinner to an employee who was working at a kidney dialysis center. Every station was full that evening and she was staying late to make sure every patient got their treatment and it meant she would miss dinner at home.  I have not forgotten her sacrifice and display of care for her patients that night.

Describe a decision you made in the past that helped you learn or grow.

My children are three of my greatest joys. It is always a heart struggle for a mom when they want to go out on their own. It was never more so than with my youngest who is autistic and desired to get a job.  The inner me did not want him to be mistreated or bullied.  But I let him and he is flourishing and comes home happy that he is productive.

What place in the world do you never want to visit? Why?

Although the title may seem tongue in cheek, it is the honest truth. I do not like extreme heat so Death Valley is out, as well as the Middle East or Australia.  And I do not like “creepy crawlies” so the Amazon would be out as I would be terrified of what would jump out or slither out after me! 

Describe a positive thing a family member has done for you.

My mom is a gifted pianist and poet and she fostered in me from a young age a love for reading and the arts.  I developed a passion for painting and sketching and even though my mom was a single mom and financial resources were tight, she found ways to buy my supplies so I could produce pieces to enter contests, fund trips to art camps and galleries. I have passed the love of arts on to my children who are artists and authors in their own right.

What is your favorite restaurant?

Hands down I would choose my son’s homemade cooking over a restaurant. Especially when he makes spaghetti with his homemade sauce. The service, ambience and dinner conversation make it extra special

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

My husband and I have a long term vision to be in a position where we would be retired from our careers and could spend our time together supporting charitable causes such as cancer research, volunteering and traveling in an RV to explore America’s history

What are 5 everyday things that bring you happiness?

1. My husband kissing me goodnight and telling me he loves me. 2. My daily hug from my autistic son when I walk in the door from work 3. My morning coffee 4. My evening walk with my dog 5. That I wake up to enjoy another day