Occupation: I am a Longaberger advisor and sales consultant for the direct sale of pottery, home décor, and baskets made in Ohio. This allows me to work out of my home and around the kids’ schedules. I earned a bachelor of arts in modern dance performance from Ohio State University. In my life before children, I was a modern dance performer and teacher in New York. I also performed in tours of  modern dance concerts.

How Long in Newtown: I have lived in Newtown for one and a half years. I love Newtown. I lived in northern New Jersey for 15 years. I was born in California and grew up in Miami, Fla. I didn’t see snow until I was 18 and went to college.

Biggest Change Seen in Town: The renovations at Trinity Church. The building is vibrant now.

Family: My husband, Charles, and I have been married for ten years. We have a blended family of six children: Chuck, 21, a junior in college; Matthew, 20, a junior in college; Emmeline, 17, and Hannah, 15, who attend Newtown High School; and Catharine, 9, and Martin, 7, who attend Sandy Hook Elementary School.

Pets: We have one dog, Rosie, 2½, who is a beagle-lab mix; three cats, Moe and Blossom and Buttercup, who are named for two of the Power Puff girls; and fish.

Hobbies: I don’t have much time for hobbies. I use to do needlepoint, and am helping needlepoint the new kneelers at Trinity. I like antiques, and attend shows when I can. My husband and I also like to do wine tastings.

Favorite Books and Authors: I like to read, especially science fiction and fantasy by authors such as Ursula LeGuin. I recently read The Golden Compass by Pullman, the first of a trilogy, which is an adult version of the Harry Potter books.

Favorite TV Show: I watch news shows, such as Today and Financial News. I also monitor what my children watch. I also follow sports, and watched some of the Olympics. I grew up with three brothers so I enjoy following sports, such as baseball. 

Organizations: I belong to the Newtown Newcomers Club. It was a wonderful part of my welcome to the community. I am a member and assistant treasurer of the Business and Professional Women’s club. I am a parishioner of Trinity Church and serve on committees there. I am also a member of the Holiday Festival Committee, helping with the antiques show. I volunteer for scouts and children’s activities. I’m a member of the PTA. I am also involved in anything related to breast cancer research. In New Jersey I did a fundraiser through the Longaberger company for early detection of breast cancer. I also walk for breast cancer and will be taking part in the “Making Strides” walk. I’m trying to get women to keep their doctor’s appointments on a regular basis. Early detection saves lives.

Most Vivid Memory of Newtown: The Labor Day Parade. Last year we watched it in the rain. This year we marched with Trinity Church. I already feel ties to the town and appreciate the traditions.

Favorite Vacation Spot: Corolla, N.C., in the Outer Banks. We rent the same house every year and go there with my husband’s two sisters and their families. Everybody gets a break, because we all take turns cooking and watching the kids.

Personal Philosophy: Treat people the way you want to be treated. Do the right thing. When I was a single mom, it seemed like I was always asking for favors. I feel it’s time for me to help other people. There are so many opportunities in the world for women. I am hoping that by the end of my life, I can say I’ve done it all, but not all at the same time. That’s a trap women fall into, thinking we have to do it all at the same time.