In a nutshell (if said nutshell was full of tangents and random facts):
I think the best part of life is surprising yourself by doing what you never thought possible, achieving more than others imagined, and overcoming old fears. For better or for worse, we are all capable of great change and that excites me. Not that this philosophy has made me become an extreme sports enthusiast or anything. I don't live on the edge, but I do like to continually challenge myself and find ways to grow.
Speaking of growing, I was born and raised in metro Detroit and went to the University of Michigan, so I have a lot of MI pride and a preference for midwestern temperaments! I say this because I also lived in Philadelphia for several years, a place I loved but it does not compare in friendliness to Michiganians (Michiganders?). I worked in non-profit development for a couple of years there before deciding to go to grad school. I did my master's in communication there and just moved to Northampton to pursue a doctoral degree in this field.
I'm kind of a nerd and love school, so I'm often happy working long and hard. Still, spending time with friends and family is a must, and I would say maintaining a work/life balance is sacred and the key to a happy and fulfilled life. In my spare time, I enjoy running (ran a couple half marathons this past year and training for a full in January!), yoga, playing guitar, singing, writing, and reading. I've also developed an affinity for great beer--Belgians, imperial ambers, and double IPAs need only apply! As a newbie to the area, I am definitely looking for places, activities, and things to discover. And finally, laughing is my favorite hobby. It's a good thing I'm easily amused.
