I have been an activity director since 1976, when the profession first started. I have numerous certifications and became Nationally Certified in 2007.

Before I moved to Arizona, I was the president of the Idaho and Montana Activity Director Association and the state representative for activity professionals at National Idaho Health Care Association. I have worked in skilled care, and assisted living and independent senior living communities. My experience is in working with all ages of individuals with special needs. In addition to leading activities and life enrichment programs, I am a ceramic instructor, dance instructor, and enjoy teaching line dancing. I also teach scrapbooking and wood work classes.

I am married with three children, all of which are in Idaho. I have four grandchildren with another on the way. I enjoy the outdoors and like to hunt and fish, am a licensed taxidermist, and have taught 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade taxidermy in special education classes. I have my little Tea Cup Yorkie (Missy) who comes to work with me and helps with my pet therapy classes. My husband, Lyle, is a volunteer at Arizona Grand and we enjoy the many friendships we are making.

Building a life enrichment program for seniors is the most rewarding job. Each day I strive to bring joy to life and go home at the end of the day knowing I have touched someone’s heart in a special way. My values have always been to try to walk in my Mother’s shoes and be a example of her in everything I do. I love my job and am blessed with all the opportunities that I have been given.