FAMILY: I was raised by my mom on a farm in Alco. My mom was my biggest cheerleader, always believing in my sister and me. As I’ve gotten older, I realize how blessed I was by that. My sister, Teresa, also known as TaTa, and I were each others’ playmates and best friends, which was a good thing considering our nearest neighbors were a mile away. The importance of family was instilled in me at a young age, as was my love of animals. Playing basketball was the only sport available at Timbo School, and I played from 4th grade to 12th grade. We won the Stone County Tournament in Fifty Six when I was in the 8th grade, and we thought we were on top of the world!
I love my nephew, Teresa’s son, Matt, his wife, Amanda, and their three precious children, Adisen, Maddox, and Asher. And little sister Cari and her sweet family in Illinois are hours away but still close.
My husband, Jon, and I love living in Mountain Home, and are blessed to have great neighbors and friends here.
CHURCH FAMILY: East Side Baptist is my church home. I am blessed to be a part of our Youth Ministry, co-teaching 7th, 8th, and 9th grade girls with Stephanie Hughes, and to sing in our choir. God says to “make a joyful noise!”
WORK: For over 13 years I have been part of a great team/family at Regional Family Medicine. Watching families grow up has been an incredible treat.
ADVICE FOR YOUNGER WOMEN: Keep your eyes to the skies, set your goals high, remember your dreams, and do not settle for less! Embrace life. It is short!
FAVORITE BODY OF WATER: All of them! Water is such a catharsis!
OUTDOOR ACTIVITY: Recently, several of my precious friends have taken me kayaking. Our area has two lakes and several rivers nearby that are very easily accessed. Enjoying nature and its stilness is relaxing and makes me smile.
VACATION: Any vacation is my favorite! The beach always calls to me, and I have loved time spent in Hawaii and on the Gulf Coast.
WAY TO CELEBRATE A FRIEND: Carving out special time, just for my friends, is my way to celebrate. I am blessed with and by my friends, my homeys!
WAY TO VOLUNTEER: Our community embraces volunteerism, and there are multiple ways to serve locally. Currently, I am on several boards: the Mountain Home Christian Clinic, the Schliemann Center for Women’s Health Education, and Into the Light. Luke 12:48 says, “To whom much is given, much is required.”
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT OCTOBER/NOVEMBER: The changing colors of the trees and the smell of fallen leaves, cool, crisp mornings, and bright blue skies.
3 WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME: Committed, passionate, happy.
CAUSE: Equality for all.
DREAM FOR THE FUTURE: To stay healthy and to make a difference.
WHAT PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT ME: In childhood I was shy.
MOTTO: Go for the gusto, and make a difference while you’re going for it! M! October/November 2016
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