My life goals in four words: live real, love hard.
Here’s what this means to me: living simply and nourishing the relationships that matter; feeding my mind and soul and strengthening my body in order to be ready for whatever life brings; being brave enough to be vulnerable, and appreciating the beautiful even in the midst of the hard. Sometimes I get it right; other times, not so much. I’m a work in progress, and I’ll bet you are too.
I’m mom to five via birth, marriage, and foster-adoption. Three kids (and two rescued mutts) are still under our roof; the older two kids are out on their own and have even given us grandchildren.
As a quiet-loving, highly sensitive introvert, I’ve had to learn how to find peace in the midst of motherhood and homeschooling. Fitness was (and is) such a big part of the process that I became a personal trainer in order to pass on that good to others. Simplifying life has also been key; our family made a big change in this direction when we moved from the hustle and bustle of metro Atlanta to small-town life in coastal North Carolina, significantly downsizing our home in the process.
I write about homeschooling, mom-life, healthy living, DIY projects, books we adore, introvert life, and whatever else is on my heart.
A few posts to get to know me:
- Becoming a Fun Mama
- When Mom Struggles with Bonding in Adoption
- How to be Friends with an Introvert
- Real Mom
And, just for fun: 41 random facts about me.
I’m a bit sad I haven’t figured out how to offer you a cup of tea through the wonders of the interweb. Until then, I invite you to subscribe to updates; they’ll be delivered straight to your inbox.
If you’re interested in health and fitness, I invite you to sign up for my Shine Strong newsletter, which goes out once or twice a month.
Let’s encourage each other to live real, love hard, and look for the joy in life.

Wife, mom, grandma. Introvert who finds joy in good books, sunshine, and authentic conversation. Fitness enthusiast and personal trainer. Often seen with a steaming mug of tea in hand.
Feel free to email me anytime.