I am a native and lifelong Hoosier. I was raised with and strongly believe in Hoosier Hospitality and am raising a little Hoosier in the same manner. Part of Hoosier Hospitality is applying that hospitality to our neighbors, friends, and loved ones. This includes the neighbors and friends that are different than us, either in experience, background, or beliefs.

Kindness and respect are vital to our household, and hard work earns its own rewards. My father was the first in his family to attend college, becoming a CPA. My mom was a school librarian spending her time helping children learn to read, reassuring them that if they can learn to read, they can learn anything. A belief that has been passed on to her children and I work to pass on to my little one, with a lifelong love of reading. This has proven true to me many times over the years as a homeowner with do it yourself projects.

Both of my parents were active in the community and supported various causes, philanthropic groups, and volunteered. They modeled love, compassion, dedication, and acceptance, for all they knew, my siblings, and myself, during their nearly 58 years of marriage. I continue on this legacy as a volunteer ambassador at Gleaners, the President of Warren Township Democrat Club, Co-Chair of the Warren Township Committee, and on the leadership council for Indiana’s Chapter of the Progressive Democrats of America.

In our home, I was raised that we can discuss and debate ideas, theories, beliefs, and views, free to believe what we wanted, if we support our views with facts. This resulted in several lively debates, but at the end of the day we were still family and will always love one another. Regardless