I am a vibrant, playful, life-loving person grateful to spend time with my family and friends. I went to Rutgers University where I had a wonderful experience academically and as a cheerleader for football and basketball. Cheerleading allowed me to travel and experience new cities! I have always had the desire to learn new things. I became a certified yoga instructor in 2017. It just goes to show you it is never too late to learn new things! I am a middle school teacher for the past 23 years and the owner of Emerald Yoga and Wellness. I love the energy I get from my students and when I teach yoga. I beat breast cancer in 2018 and my friends and family got me through it. I love being outside and am a Lululemon Ambassador and even though I am afraid of heights they encouraged me to do a treetop obstacle course!
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I have been married for 19 1/2 years to my husband Joe. We have two daughters, Dylan and Kendra, in Mahwah High school and a son Trey, in Ramapo Ridge. We love to hang out at home and watch movies. Our favorite time is in the summer when we are outside playing and grilling. Our least favorite time together is when I have to make them buckle down and study instead of playing on their phones- LOL
Q: Please tell us about your current career. What do you love most about what you do?
I am a teacher at heart. I love my job and I am not just saying that. Yes, there are days I would rather stay in bed, for sure, but I work with amazing people across the board. While teaching middle school or yoga I get to connect with people on a deeper level.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Sonny and Tony’s is a family favorite! We are there all the time to meet other families and enjoy their food. Bici is our favorite for date night. The atmosphere is cozy and the food is ahhhhhmazing!
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
We moved to Mahwah in 2008 when our girls were born. We saw our house and stood in the back yard and said, “This is it!” We have loved it ever since!
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
I think all my neighbors are interesting. Each one offers a unique sense of family to our neighborhood.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Greece. I have been interested in the culture and country all year. I want to know more about the everyday way of living and the beautiful landscape and food!
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Right now I am watching the new Quantum Leap with my husband. I like the idea of time travel.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Lead with Love and Always keep an open mind
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Spend an entire summer traveling
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Maroon 5
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Olive on Main Street in Ramsey is a nice small space and I always run into friends looking for gifts!
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
One of my teacher friends. We always have a great lunch conversations but only get a 25 minute lunch. And by the time you heat up your lunch and walk to the lunchroom it is only about 20 minutes. So to get a long nice lunch would be a gift to any of us.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
That everyone looks out for each other. Other moms offer to help and drive even if it is out of their way. It really takes a village
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I will still be here. My kids will be in college so I will be out with my friends more.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I wish pediatric cancer never existed
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
A beautiful beach in Cozumel that we discovered on a car ride.
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
Month is June (hello I am a teacher), Thanksgiving is beyond my favorite. Date: 10/18 (my anniversary)
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Home cooked meals!
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My children- (all children really) I want everything to be better for them and they teach us so much.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Perfume and walking into a home that smells of dinner
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Family, love, happiness
