I am an explorer at heart.  I love to travel and have been to Europe and South America, at times traveling by bicycle.  I also love to explore trails either by foot or by mountain bike and over the years I have probably hiked every trail in Olympic National Park, as well as many of the trails in the North Cascades and Mt. Rainier.  I sometimes think of myself as a "witness to nature" and enjoy returning to the same places at different times of the year.  The ocean also intrigues me and I've always wanted to sail around the world.

It is because of my hiking and traveling that I care deeply about the natural world.  It is my dream to build a smallish solared-powered home and then teach others how to build them.

I have a great passion for teaching kids, especially those who feel "behind".  I feel lucky to have had the opportunity to encourage students to work step by step to reach their potentials and then to celebrate their accomplishments.    It is a wonderful experience to watch a student who may have been shy and unsure become confident and happy.  Every student is unique and multifaceted. 

Music is another area of interest and most recently, the upbeat sound of salsa.  If you haven't tried salsa dancing, grab yourself a partner and take some classes.  It's great fun and exercise!