How did you learn about TNH and SnowFlower?
My husband, Walt, joined SnowFlower Sangha and shared Peace is Every Step with me.
What is your favorite TNH book?
Peace is Every Step – so much wisdom written in an easy to understand manner.
Remembering your first time at SnowFlower, what did you like best? Put another way, why did you decide to come back?
The first time I attended SnowFlower, 8 years ago, I was just going to see what it was like. I was not planning to join as I was a Catholic. However when I attended, I felt like I was at home. The room was filled with warm, welcoming people who were on the path I was looking for.
What other Buddhist teachers do you like?
Tara Brach, Jack Kornfield, Joseph Goldstein
What is your a favorite Buddhist website?
Dharmaseed.org
How does Buddhism as taught by TNH fit into your daily life? Why is it important to you?
The five precepts are my North Star, helping me to become a more compassionate, loving and caring person who lives in the present moment.
If you are working, what do you do? If you are retired, what jobs or career did you hold in your working life?
My career has ranged from all different aspects of marketing to project and program management. In retirement I will be taking a program led by Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield to become a Mindfulness Meditation Teacher.
Do you do any volunteer work?
For the past four or so years, I have been a Scheduler for SnowFlower as well as the Secretary of the Steering Committee. This year I will be coordinating the website as well as being Treasurer.
While it does not feel like volunteering, I have been a “Big” to Rakayah through Big Brothers Big Sisters for the last 11 years.
Currently I am investigating other volunteer opportunities as I move into retirement.
Family?
I come from a family with eight sisters and one brother.
Walt and I are blessed with four children: Derek who is married to Char with two daughters Winnie (4) and Evie (2); Ryan who is married to Beth with one daughter, Evie (2), and a son on the way; Paul living with Kanan; and Callie married to Anay.
Favorite hobbies or pastimes?
I love hiking, biking, canoeing, and being outdoors in nature. When I am inside I devour books, sew and quilt.
Favorite guilty pleasure?
My favorite guilty pleasure is dark chocolate peanut M&Ms.
