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SNAPSHOT: DEBBIE HOLTON-SMITH

Occupation: For 21 years I've worked as a cancer nurse specialist. For these

past four years, my entire focus is on holistic and educational health,

concentrating on counseling ADD and ADHD children and their families. I have

an office here in Newtown.

How Long in Newtown: I have been a resident for 15 years, having married a

Brooklyn boy who was working in Connecticut. I originally grew up in Vermont,

but lived at Dartmouth in New Hampshire before moving here.

Biggest Change Seen in Town: The growing number of new homes and the additions

needed for the schools.

Family: My husband Chris and I have been married for 15 years. We have two

great boys, Brian, 13, and Brendan, 10. Of course, our black lab, Hunter, and

tiger cat, Toby, are our kids, too. Gloria and Mario Abondolo are our adopted

grandparents here in Newtown. The other sets of grandparents are in Vermont

and Brooklyn, N.Y.

Hobbies: I love being outside... puttering with the flowers and planning new

designs for an English style garden. As a Vermonter, I thrive on skiing. Music

has become my newest passion as I sing in the church choir. The movies at

Edmond Town Hall are always fun. Photographing my kids is another favorite

pastime.

Favorite books and authors: I love to read motivational and insightful books

that focus on the family. I have enjoyed the thought-provoking spiritual

series by Tim LaHaye, including his book Left Behind. I also like to read my

boys' fiction stories from school, such as Number the Stars. Teachers have

such a great library. I am currently writing my own book of encouragement for

teachers and parents challenged with ADD and ADHD children, to be completed

this year.

Organizations: I am a member of the Feingold Association for Autism &

ADD/ADHD, Tentmakers Ministry (short-term missions) at Walnut Hill Community

Church, National Oncology Nursing Society and Starlight International, a

holistic and nutraceutical organization. I recently took part in a ten-day

ministry in Costa Rica at the Roblealto Child Care Bible Home with Tentmakers

Ministry.

Philosophy: Having been caught up in a hectic work pace that promoted a lack

of peace, I now have realized that God and my family are my most important

priorities. To enjoy my life and the people around me is more fulfilling than

following the material culture we are surrounded with. Reading the book Simple

Abundance has helped show me how to increase both joy and gratitude in each

and every day.