the beginning

We don't lead a particularly interesting life. We don't take vacations any where other than to visit family, we live modestly, We are learning to make the best with what we have.


I grew up in a little town in the suburbs (really far out suburbs) of Chicago. I look back at how I spent my time growing up and I hope that i can provide a similar experience for my kids. I didn't get everything I wanted but I got more than what I needed. My parents expected good grades and behavior in exchange for things like, a car and the privilege to go to college on their bill. I am so thankful for the way they raised me.


I met my husband my first year of college. We have been together since 1998! Holy crap! How has it been that long? How am I that old? We got married in 2007 in the Dominican Republic with a small group of family and friends. We have had our fair share of differences but always find common ground. 

 I am a special education teacher and work with kids in kindergarten through second grade. I enjoy my job and at times have been extremely frustrated with my job. This year has been a refreshing year. I feel like I have found my groove again.  I have worked with a quirky group of kids in the 6 years I have been doing my job. Some have left bigger marks (literally and figuratively) than others.  The ones that have moved on I worry about how they are doing. I will never talk too much about my job as it requires confidentiality and respect for my students and their families.