You can check out the It Takes A Village page to learn a little about how I spend my time with family and friends. When I am not with others, I spend a lot of time making crafts.  A lot of things I make I give as gifts. Last year I painted a plaster penguin figurine for my sister-in-law and knitted an afghan for a friend. I spend the most time making counted cross stitch. Right now I’m in the middle of making Christmas stockings. I usually work on it while I watch tv, so at least after an evening binge watching Netflix, I have something to show for it.

Another love of mine is history. I have always had an interest in history, but not just because it was taught in school. The reason is that, like most people, I like a good story, and history is full of crazy stories. As a kid, my father, uncle and grandmother would tell me about different historical events and I always wanted to know more.  My Dad nurtured my interest by giving me books, showing me movies, and encouraging me to find out more. As an adult, I watch a lot of documentaries and read or listen to non-fiction books. I don’t expect my child to love history.  I want my child to discover what they are passionate about and help them to pursue it. I will encourage and support my child in the same way that I was supported as a child.

While I enjoy a quiet afternoon at home, I also love to travel, which always makes me appreciate coming home.  I have been able to travel extensively to see for myself many of the historic places that I heard about as a child. While I have been very fortunate to have traveled to Europe several times, my travels aren't limited to just vacations.  I have wonderful memories of taking a day to attend a Formula One race, to go horseback riding on the beach in Montauk, and white water rafting.  Sometimes the most fun comes from heading out and not knowing where you’ll end up.