I grew up in Glendale down in Southern California and moved to Northern California in 1992 when I met my husband David. We first lived in Santa Clara before moving to Livermore in 2003. We’ve been married for 29 years and have two kids, Joey and Natalie who both attended Smith, Mendenhall and Granada and are both now in college. We enjoy traveling, watching San Jose Sharks hockey and all things Disney!
Q: What are some fun activities to do in Livermore?
We love all of the outdoor activities available here-walking and biking on the trails. Downtown events are also really fun!
Q: What makes the Livermore community so special?
Everyone here is always so friendly! You can’t go far without seeing a smiling face or running into someone you know.
Q: Please tell us about where you work and what you love about what you do?
I currently have two jobs. My primary job for the past four years is a Transitional Kindergarten teacher at Emma C. Smith Elementary School. I love spending my days with our littlest learners. I love to share the joy of learning with them. They come to school every day excited about the new things they will learn and do in our classroom. I treasure each day I get to spend with them and I love to watch them grow throughout the year in so many ways. My days are sometimes exhausting and challenging but I wouldn’t give it up! My second job is K-5 Sacrament Preparation Coordinator and VBS Co-Director at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Community. I have volunteered as a catechist for many years and I find such joy in helping those preparing to receive Sacraments. To journey with them every step of the way is very rewarding. As VBS Co-Director, spending a week each June sharing faith, fellowship, singing and dancing with so many members of our community always gets my summer started right! It’s fun and amazing and wonderful all at the same time!
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
There are so many great restaurants but our favorites are Ale House, Uncle Yu’s, Kawa Sushi, Zephyr and Simply Fondue.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
We have lived here in Livermore for 19 years.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
I’ve met so many interesting people since we have been here-it’s hard to pick just one!
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
TV Shows-I enjoy watching The Amazing Race and Survivor. Movies-Anything Disney, old Hollywood Musicals like Singing in the Rain.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Some of the things I always tell my students are that they should always try their best and never say “I can’t”. It’s okay to make mistakes because that means you are learning. This is a good thing to remember for adults too. Another good thing to remember is that there are some things that are completely out of your control. Rather than worry about them and get upset, just let it go. And always remember to breathe!
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
The Vine Cinema and Donut Wheel.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
The many events that bring our community together from festivals to parades to outreach programs.
Q: What is your favorite holiday?
My most favorite holiday is Christmas-the decorations, the music, the lights, being with family-the whole season!
Q: Who inspires you?
My family both near and far. Also my students who work so hard every day!
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Love, happiness, comfort
What is the best way to get a hold of you?
Emma C. Smith Elementary 925-606-4750 or www.stcharlesborromeo.org
