Occupation: I have been an independent branch advisor for the Longaberger Company for 11 years. Prior, I worked at Perkin Elmer as a technical writer. When my daughter was 2, I decided I wanted to stay home with her. I graduated from Middlebury College in Vermont, where I studied environmental biology. I was drawn to the science field, but later had an accounting job. I took a two-week professional publishing course at Stanford University years ago that was run by people from all over the country. I had left my job in New York so when they posted a job for coordinator of the program, I applied and got it. I stayed there for about a year and a half, from 1978 to 1979. I have learned I like to learn new things and share them with others.

How Long in Newtown: We had been living in Danbury, but wanted to buy a home. We found Newtown and bought a home here in 1986.

Biggest Change Seen in Town: There are a lot of new houses. The schools are growing like crazy. Then there’s the Big Y supermarket.

Family: My husband, Michael, and I have been married for 18 years. We have three children, Kristen, 16, a student at Newtown High School; Matthew, 13, who attends the Middle School; and Timmy, 6, who is at Hawley School.

Pets: We have Maxx, a collie/husky mix, who looks like a wolf, and Honey the cat, who is the color of honey.

Hobbies: I don’t really have time for hobbies, what with the kids, the house, and Longaberger. I like to talk to people. I like to decorate my house during the holidays. I also like to cook and especially like to make stir fried dishes. Years ago I played tennis and did a lot of skiing.

Favorite Books and Authors: I’ve enjoyed reading ‘Tis. I like to read anything to do with miracles, coincidence, or angels. I enjoy personal stories about people and what is happening to them and books about how the mind works. I enjoyed Angels Speake by Trudy Griswold and The Messengers.

Favorite TV Show: The Practice. I don’t watch a lot of TV. We did watch Who Wants to be a Millionaire in the beginning when it was a novelty.

Organizations: I am a member of St Rose Church and volunteer at Hawley School with Timmy’s class.

Most Vivid Memory of Newtown: I love the whole pastoral look of the town, and the center of town. The parade – the kids always love that. I like all the people. Everyone is really nice here.

Favorite Vacation Spot: Martha’s Vineyard with the kids. It’s kind of a special place.

Personal Philosophy: It’s important not to judge people because you don’t know what has molded them. Being honest. Believe you can be anything you need. Be kinder. Keep busy. Think positively.