I grew up in a devout Catholic home in the Chicago area. However, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has been central in my life since meeting and marrying my husband of 30+ years. He died of cancer in August 2005. We hiked and biked, raised our children, traveled with backpacks through Europe, attempted golf together, gardened and cleaned the house together. There is a pattern here. And rebuilding a life is a real challenge . . . and yet an opportunity.

Running 5 K (and longer; I ran my first half-marathon in 9/08), biking, snow skiing, travel, calligraphy, photography, art, animals, movies, some baking and cooking, . . . these are a few of my favorite things.

Working with children and families as a special education teacher has made some lasting friendships.

The Gospel does help us through our greatest challenges. People arrive in our lives at just the right time.

As I travel, I am interested in meeting active LDS members (women and men) who share common interests and who would enjoy spending a few moments together.

 Training for the Christie Clinic Illinois Half Marathon in late April 2013 is keeping me running. Hope to run into LDS friends there!