How many kids do you have and what are their ages?
I have four children ages 18, 17, 6 and 4.5.
What do you love about living in Stamford?
I love the diverse community, the beautiful parks and nature trails (I especially love the Arboretum and the Stamford Nature Center), the vibrant arts and cultural scene, the many children’s events, the Ferguson library (We attend story times weekly and have been attending for years now) and the opportunities for personal and professional growth.
What’s your favorite restaurant and/or place to shop in Stamford?
This one is hard to answer since I love more than one. I love Blackstones Steakhouse, The Capital Grille, and Remo’s.
Tell us about your career.
I am a dedicated Early Childhood Educator with 14+ years of experience working with young children. I am currently a homeschool educator, homeschooling my two younger children. I am pursuing a Master’s in Education focusing on Curriculum writing and instruction. I am committed to creating engaging and effective learning experiences with a passion for nurturing young minds. I have a strong belief in the power of education. To shape the future, I am constantly seeking new ways to inspire and empower the next generation of learners.
What is your inspiration behind your children’s book, “The Little French Mushroom”?
My children’s and my former students’ curiosity and love for nature inspired me to write my first book, “The Little French Mushroom.” My deep love for family, which shines through the story, is another source of inspiration.
What is the book about?
The book is about a little mushroom named Champ who was accidentally picked and found himself in a new and unfamiliar place. This unexpected arrival sparked curiosity and concern among the garden’s inhabitants, who soon discovered that Champ hailed from a neighboring garden belonging to Madame Amelie. With the help of the garden’s creatures, Champ was reunited with his family, and the reunion brought immense joy and sparked new friendships.
What do your children think of the book?
My children love the book. They enjoy learning about nature and the importance of exploring the world around them. Their enthusiasm and excitement for the book make it worth all the hard work and dedication I had put into writing it.
Tell us about the book events you have coming up.
I have a book reading and signing on April 27 at the South End Branch of the Ferguson Library. Details available here. I will also be reading at the Norwalk library (Date to be determined), and will be reaching out to local schools and after school programs to set up dates for me to go read to the children.
How do you juggle work and mommyhood?
Juggling mommyhood while attending grad school full-time and homeschooling my children is challenging but doable with proper time management and prioritization. I set a schedule allowing dedicated time for studying, teaching my children, and family time. Family support has also been a great help.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve gotten from another mom?
One of the best pieces of advice I received from another mom was to cherish the moments with my children as they grow up so fast, do my best, and take things one day at a time.