Occupation: I’m a garden stylist. Since the beginning of this summer I’ve owned my own business, Cider Mill Designs, which is a four-season container gardening business. I’ve been a master gardener since October of 2010, and I also do small-scale garden design and renovation, and offer consultation services. Before this, I was a stay-at-home mom for nine years, and before that I worked in the Pacific Rim region operations department for Tauck Tours.

Family: I have two children. Lily is 9 years old and in the fourth grade. Oliver is 7, and in the second grade.

Pets: We have Alfie, our 4-year-old English cocker spaniel. He has a little tag on his collar that reads, “Free Kisses,” and that about sums him up. And we have Ziggy, our black bear hamster.

How long have you lived in Newtown? I’ve been here for 18 years, in Sandy Hook, living in a 300-year-old former cider mill.

What do you like to do in your free time? Outdoor family adventure, of all types. I just completed my fifth triathlon. Swimming is my event in that trio. I love yoga and all sorts of exercise. I’m in my fourth year of volunteering as a Girl Scout leader. Gardening is my passion and hobby, and I spent this summer creating containers for sale at the Fairfield Hills Farmers Market. For cooler weather, I’m creating terrariums to sell at area art shows and fairs. I also enjoy reading, antiquing, and travel.

Do you have a favorite book? I love The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls. That was a amazing story about triumph and tenacity. I do read a lot of magazines, too, for design inspiration.

Do you have a favorite travel destination? I’ve seen many destinations around the world and I think exploring different cultures is extremely important in shaping one’s view of the world. For me, Antarctica was a surreal experience, filled with adventure and close interaction with wildlife. That was in 2000. I went to Iceland for my 40th birthday, and that’s my second favorite. It was the best mix of adventure, spas, and food. We had an amazing viewing of the northern lights there, too, and the people were so interesting. Locally, I love Block Island.

What is the best thing about Newtown? I really think it is Nicer in Newtown. I’ve been here for 18 years and I still think the core values have remained unchanged. People are still friendly and genuine. It’s a great place to raise my two children. The quintessential New England charm has remained the same.

Who has been the greatest influence in your life? I would say my parents. They’ve never held me back from reaching whatever goals I’ve set for myself. They’ve always been quietly supportive. My mom is still my best friend and confidant.

Do you have a personal philosophy? Honesty and positive thinking. I’ve always strived to fulfill my personal goals. I’m an optimistic person, and I think it’s important to follow your passion in life.

Do you have a guilty pleasure? Shopping! And homemade popcorn with butter, and really good cupcakes. I do love Magnolia cupcakes, from New York City.