About Me

I was born and lived for 7 years in Stillwater, MN which allows me to use either that, or the fact that I lived in little Norwalk, IA for 17 years, to my advantage. Depending on whom I am talking to. My parents, brother and sister-in-law are all grammar police, and I claim to be as well. However, they tend to pick on my grammar at times, so I guess they are superior in that area. But, that is where their fortes end (outright lie--my brother could build a model rocket like there was no tomorrow!).

Right after high school graduation, I moved to Houston to be a nanny. What an experience! I'm not saying whether it was good or bad, I'm just saying. I started college there too, but quickly vamoosed the situation in Houston and headed back up to cornfield laden Iowa and went to school there. I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa in 1994 and then married my college sweetheart, Tim, in 1996. 3 months later we moved to the Minneapolis area. I liked growing up in Iowa, but had a bit of a wanderlust and needed a little more action (or a larger/cheaper airport) then what Iowa had to offer. In general, the both of us were hoping to work in a field other than insurance (that's where about everyone ends up, in Des Moines). As much as we liked to sharpen pencils and argue with people over the phone, we thought we'd spread our wings a bit and try something new.

Shortly after moving there, we had a surprise visitor make her entrance. In June of 1997, our daughter Samantha came into the world. Of course, it wasn't the easiest thing to have happen, but we made the most of it, and she continues to be a tremendous light in our lives! We built a house in 2000 and shortly there after decided to add on to our family as well. In May 2001, Damon joined us! A spitfire since day 1, he continues to amaze us with his spunk and energy. Unfortunately the marriage chapter closed in our lives, and Tim and I parted ways in July 2002. We remain very good friends, and we have all adjusted extremely well. We share custody of the children equally and continue to enjoy co-parenting.

In September of 2005, I married my 2nd (and final) husband. Kevin and I are both quite strong-willed, intelligent and adventurous, so we have lots of fireworks and fun together. I feel very lucky (most of the time! ha ha!) to have found my soulmate, and the person who just makes things feel right in my world. Kevin brought along Miss Kierstyn into our marriage, who is only 9 months younger than Damon, so our families matched up pretty well.

Then, along came Tyler in May 2007 to help complete the big picture and finalize the "2 of each" rule that I'd implemented when I found out I was pregnant (the power of positive thinking, people!). The 3 other children ADORE Mr. Tyler, and he loves it when they entertain him! I can't wait to see how their fun stories all play out.

In 2005 when I started this blog, I knew that lots of changes were coming up...I just wasn't sure HOW many! There sure have been a lot of ups and downs. From now on, I'd like to have more ups!! Stay tuned!