About Me

This post may contain affiliate links.

Born and raised in the beautiful 1000 Islands, my childhood was spent on the St. Lawrence River, working at our family owned marina in several capacities.  When I wasn't working, I loved spending time on the island my father's family is from. I would jump at any chance I had to return there, whether it be cleaning rental cottages or becoming an intern at the research and heritage center there.  Family history work is very near and dear to my heart.

While in high school, I had the privilege of touring six countries in Europe as a member of an honor chorus, representing the United States of America.  This opportunity not only fed my passion for travel and culture, but influenced me to pursue an education in music.

My educational pursuits led me to obtain a bachelor's degree in music with an emphasis in voice.  I also studied Spanish and placed myself in as many settings as possible, where I could become fluent, including work as an outreach specialist for Girl Scouts of America, becoming a member of Spanish speaking church congregations, and living with a fabulous roommate from Argentina.

I met my husband in my church congregation, while attending college.  He worked as a mental health therapist in the area.  We were married very quickly, and began our adventures together.  I gave birth to two very precious little boys.  Both have Autism Spectrum Disorder.  One has other significant special dietary needs.  Due to pregnancy complications after our second child, we decided to adopt two little girls through foster care.  Over the course of 4 1/2 years, we welcomed over 20 children into our home, all special needs, several of them infants.  Through this process we found our two little girls.  Both are special needs, and have Reactive Attachment Disorder and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.  The youngest also has Autism Spectrum Disorder and a Sleep Disorder.

I was introduced to the Montessori Method as a nanny, before my children were born.  It was later, when my husband and I decided to homeschool our children, that I was reintroduced to it.  I was trying to find an effective and positive way to teach my special needs children.  After many months of reading and studying, I gave it a try. There are no words to describe how it has transformed my children and our learning time together.  I've never looked back.

Each day I serve my family in as many ways as I can.  I've been developing our Montessori Inspired Curriculum for 3 years now.  I am very excited for the opportunity to share my experiences, unit studies and free printables on my blog: Every Star Is Different.