Growing up a native Oregonian, I spent most of my weekends exploring the Gorge with my father and siblings riding ATVs. I found my singing voice at a young age while listening to my mother play the piano and eagerly participated in church and school choirs through college.

From the time I could read Dr. Seuss, books have been a passion and it's one of my long term goals to write and publish a historical novel. For now I spend most of my time taking care of my three daughters. We love attending street fairs, exploring nature trails and piling up together in a mound of blankets to watch movies or our favorite T.V shows.

When I get a night out I can be found on the dance floor. Since the age of 17, I've been country dancing – from a fast-paced two-step to a graceful nightclub – there is nothing I enjoy more. In my early 30s, I decided to branch out and began learning West Coast Swing. Dancing has been a wonderful way to meet people and I've been rewarded with incredible friends.

It was by accident that I discovered my genuine love for working with older adults. I had answered an ad from an assisted living facility that was looking for a caregiver and was offered the job. After realizing how rewarding the work was, I became a private caregiver and took the nurse assisting course through Portland Community College.

When given the chance to go back to school, I chose gerontology as my major and decided I wanted to do something that helped older adults continue to live active and enriching lives. Working at West Hills has given me that opportunity.

My favorite part of my job is watching residents delight in the discovery of learning something new. As much as I love what I do, I have to say it's working with such an incredible team that makes working at West Hills Village a great experience.