Paddle the Mitten & SUP MI, Neighbor

I've spent most of my adult life in or around the small surfing community of Capitola, CA. But, most recently my path has brought me to where my family's roots have been since 1830, Hartland. 

After graduating from Hartland, I traveled extensively and studied in some of our most beautiful National Parks. I've return to Eastern Michigan University twice, to earn a BS Degree and a Post-Baccalaureate  in Geology, Earth System Science, Social Studies & Secondary Education. My Graduate Degree from San Jose State's Environmental Studies Department focused on Historic Preservation. This is where I gained my knowledge on archival research and writing. 

The National Park Service in California is where I worked as a preservation consultant, before I began teaching.  As a teacher, I've taught in several schools.  One being a Top 50 High School in the Nation, and also an Inner-City high school located in Baltimore, Maryland.  It was the love of my family that brought me home to Hartland, where I feel have come nearly full-circle. 

Like the Bon Jovi song says "Who says you can't go back?"

While in Santa Cruz, California I worked with Surftech, where I surfed and stand up paddled.  I taught a variety of people who were disabled or disadvantaged with a large organization specializing in instruction.

I am a pioneer in bringing the sport Stand Up Paddleboarding to Michigan.  I own Paddle the Mitten, where I sell and teach on the SUPs.  The classes that I teach are Intro, and I specialize in SUP Yoga and SUP Pilates. 

My interests are varied from running, yoga, surfing, being a Foodie, Harleys, to Eastern Religions. I deeply believe in community service and advocate for 2 causes; Awareness of early detection of Colon and Breast Cancer. At home, my three Miniature Dachshunds keep me very busy and entertained. I am currently authoring a non-fiction book based in the heart of the Mitten State and outlining a book about my teaching adventures in the inner city.