How did you get roped into doing this, and what was your first thought when asked?

I moved to Eugene one year ago and never heard of Catwalk for Cause until Missy Koke told me there were a couple extra spots open for the wine bus after the 2019 Catwalk. In an effort to meet more people in Eugene (along with drinking wine), I said yes! That’s when I met an actual bus load of wonderful women from the community who told me all about Catwalk for a Cause. Of course I wanted in!!!

 

What made you say yes?

I have a compassion for children, and I love this community. The Boys and Girls club is such a great organization. Plus, I love a good fashion show!

 

What is your official job title?

Financial Controller

 

How would you describe your job to your mother?

My job is safe-guarding company assets and information while producing financial statements in conformance with GAAP (generally accepted accounting principles).

 

All families are unique, tell us about yours...

I grew up in a lovely traditional family with my father (Bill), mother (Linda), and brother (Will). In 2015, I married my husband, Jon, and found myself the step mother of two teenage boys and an adult daughter. This also made me a step grandmother at age 30!

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Tell us about your personal passions, talents, and/or hobbies.

I enjoy the outdoors so much and love living in Oregon. You’ll find me running, golfing, or fishing whenever I can. I also really enjoy rollerblading and pretending I am Tanya Harding. I find a lot of joy in serving at my church. I can’t really say that I teach Sunday school because I am mostly watching toddlers run wild while their parents attend church. I call it herding kittens.

 

What is something that you swore you would never do as a parent before you had kids that you do now?

I swore I would never take my kids to McDonald’s. I’ve failed!

 

What is something that people might be surprised to know about you?

I was a vegetarian for 15 years. I can rollerblade like Tanya Harding. I have no piercings or tattoos. I have a terrible fear of flying, needles, and vomit.

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Who inspired you when you were growing up?

My mother is my biggest inspiration. Not only was she a great mother but she worked her tail off. She started out as an English teacher and worked her way up to school district superintendent while earning her Doctorate degree. In addition to achieving her career goals, she’s the most caring and loving mother anyone could ask for.

 

If you could go back and talk to your 12-year-old self, what would you say?

It doesn’t matter what you look like, how many friends you have, how smart you are, or how much money your family makes. You are loved, special and important. You matter.

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