My husband and I have 3 grown children and 6 grandchildren. My early years were spent in the Tri Cities – I graduated from Kennewick HS, my husband from Pasco HS. So I’ve basically lived my whole life in Washington. My BA degree in Business Administration was from Pacific Lutheran University as well as the M.Ed. in Guidance and Counseling. I have taught all levels, preschool through community college (computer science and other business subjects) and the last 15 years of my career was as a high school counselor.
After retiring I worked for the Washington State Legislature (Senate) and was an educational consultant for several districts focusing on motivating potential school dropouts to work toward graduation. Currently I teach quilting classes, am a Master Gardener, and actively participate in my church. We live in a lovely retirement community in Lacey and have enjoyed all the amenities here.
I began making Quilts of Valor before I became a member. I became so impressed with this program that I became an official member. To me, honoring our Veterans and Service Members by making comforting patriotic quilts is a most worthy way to use our skills and time. My husband was a Navy Corpsman who served with the Marine Corps in Vietnam. He suffers from PTSD and other service-connected health issues. I can only imagine what he and others went through in that war. Our son served with the Marine Corps between the two gulf wars. My brother served in the Air Force in Vietnam as an advisor and sharp shooter. I have strong connections to the military.
I look forward to meeting as many of you as I’m able, and to participate with you in furthering the goals and Mission of the Foundation.