Occupation: I am a stay-at-home mom first and foremost, but I’m also a quilter. I launched my own business website this past September for “bitty birdie design.” I do mostly baby quilts, some appliquéd “onesies” and small stuff for little people.

Family: Sean and I have been married for 15 years. We have three kids. Colin is 11, Ryan is 9, and Madeline is 7 years old.

Pets: We own an antique farmhouse, so we have tons of pets. We have a guinea pig named Nellie, 11 chickens, many fish, and one huge golden retriever named Fenway. Fenway is 3 years old. My oldest son is desperate for cows and goats, but so far I’ve said, “No way.”

How long have you lived in Newtown? We moved here in 1996. We lived in Fairfield, where my husband teaches, before that.

What do you like to do in your free time? I love to sew, and I’m an avid reader and moviegoer. Those are my main hobbies. I love interior design and antiques, and incorporate them into my personal life.

Do you have a favorite book? I just read a book that is probably one of my favorites ever, and I’ve read many, many books. It’s the new John Irving novel, Last Night in Twisted River. Now I’m going to go back and read some of his classics. I also like twisted humor, like David Sedaris.  It makes me feel more normal.

Do you have a favorite travel destination? I love to go anywhere in the Caribbean in the dead of winter. I love the colors, the air feels softer, and I think the sun is restorative. One special place for us is Cooper Island in the British Virgin Islands. We got engaged there.

What is the best thing about Newtown? My friends. I have this amazing group of friends. They are smart, they’re interesting, they’re warm, and I wouldn’t trade them for anything in the world. That said, I also love the charm of the Christmas tree lighting and Halloween on Main Street. I think my kids will remember that forever.

If you could spend a day with anyone, whom would you choose? My dad. He died when I was 4, so it would be cool to spend a day with him. I’d just like to get to know him a little.

Do you have a personal philosophy? It’s important for people to cut themselves and others a break, and know that you are doing the best you can. Don’t be so tough on yourself and others.

Do you have a guilty pleasure? I’m a total sugar addict, and I love Starbuck’s Zen green tea. I drink it every day. If I could put it through an IV, I would. And I’m a complete ice cream addict, too — Bada Bing at the Creamery. I have to take myself off of it for the winter.