From the time I was born, I have spent years making my way from one coast to the other. My early years were spent in California, elementary and high school years landed us in Wisconsin and Rhode Island, and for college I packed my bags for Mount Holyoke in Massachusetts. So, it only makes sense that I flew south to Washington, D.C. right after graduation – it was, after all, a place I’d never lived before! As God would have it, I met my husband, Steve, the first day I moved to town. We’ve been married since 1992 and many years later, our daughter Grace made us a trio. I have been grateful for this collaboration, as we daily live out what it is to both give and receive love, forgiveness, grace, and mercy.

I am trained as an educator, having taught at the preschool, elementary and graduate levels in both public school and Christian ministry. It is what God made me to do and I am deeply grateful.

My work at Restoration has multiple layers as I shepherd kids, nursery through 5th grade, and their precious parents. I even get to recruit and encourage some of the most amazing and committed volunteers – our kids’ small group leaders. I think holding babies, laughing at knock knock jokes, encouraging parents, and cheering on our kids’ small group leaders must be the best thing anyone gets to do. Seeing God at work in all of these people takes my breath away.

I am in the process of learning to be a spiritual director and eager to see what it looks like to offer times of listening to God together with kids and families. 

When I’m not buying (more) Cheerios or high-fiving my short friends, I love walking in the woods, laughing so hard I cry, pouring over picture books, relishing moments of quiet that bring rest to my soul, and just being with the people I love most.