2024: A New Chapter Begins
In 2024, I embarked on an exciting new chapter by becoming a certified life and health coach. Now, I’m following my passion by helping mid-life women stop dreaming and start doing—guiding them toward living their dreams so we can all age wild!

2019: My Busiest Season as a Wedding Photographer
During my busiest year, I photographed 29 weddings, along with numerous engagement and family sessions. It was an incredibly fulfilling and rewarding season in my photography career.

June 2018: Certified Yoga Teacher
In June 2018, I became a certified yoga teacher. Shortly after, I completed an additional 95 hours of training to become certified as a children's yoga instructor.

February 20, 2017: A Wedding on the 45th Parallel South
On February 20, 2017, Bill and I were married on the 45th parallel south in New Zealand. We met at the Equator and now live on the 45th parallel north. It was truly the best day ever—we shouted our joy from the mountaintop, celebrating our love in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

April 2014: A New Beginning
I moved from St. Louis, Missouri to Bill’s home in Traverse City, Michigan with nothing but one carload—ready for a fresh start and new adventures.

March 2014: A Serendipitous Meeting
During my last 36 hours in Ecuador, I met Bill, who was also traveling solo from Michigan. After a few phone calls, we decided to meet for our first date in Florida—which ended up lasting 33 days!

January 2014: Solo Adventure to Ecuador
I "Flew the Coop" to Ecuador with a one-way ticket and way too much luggage. After two weeks with my Spanish teacher's family, exploring the Galapagos, the Amazon, and a 25-day road trip, I returned home with just one suitcase, having given away most of what I packed!

September 2013: First Solo International Trip
After my divorce was final and months of therapy, I took my first solo international trip to Nicaragua. Meeting the girls I sponsored through Compassion International was a life-changing experience and a pivotal moment in my healing journey.

2007-2011: A Period of Decline and Devastation
During these years, my health continued to deteriorate. In 2012 at the age of 54 I finally started to climb out of this hole where I had felt trapped for so long. I left a very unhealthy marriage of 24 years which gave me the freedom to finally care for myself. After 2 years of therapy, health coaching, and self-care I rebuilt my self-esteem and self-worth. As my confidence grew I found adventures, late life love, and total joy in life.

1991-2007: Dance Connection, St. Peters, Missouri: I founded and grew Dance Connection over 16 years, expanding to three locations with over 900 students, a dedicated staff of 16, and 6 dance rooms. Despite the studio's success, I made the difficult decision to sell in 2007 due to health challenges from fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue, as well as financial strain caused by a difficult personal relationship.

1988: A New Chapter and a Growing Family
Instead of seeking the help and therapy I needed, I jumped into a rebound marriage that same year. At the age of 30, I suddenly became mother to three step-children, along with my two children, and welcomed a baby boy two years later.

1979-1988: A Chapter of Change
In 1979, my daughter Cristen was born, bringing joy to my life. Sadly, after 13 years, my marriage ended in 1988.

1978: A Fun Fact
I performed in the Gamma Phi Circus at Illinois State University. It was an unforgettable experience during my college years!

1975: Becoming a Teen Mom
This is me at 17, navigating the challenges of being a young mother with my son, Dave.