My dad pushing me on my sled in our backyard when I was a year old.
My dad. Ever since I can remember my dad and I were inseparable. We did everything together from playing catch in the backyard to baking the most delicious cinnamon bread; whatever it was we were together. He taught me an array of information ranging from how to use random tools to how to mow the lawn, but more importantly he taught me how to be an honest, caring, loyal, respectful and trustworthy individual. We would spend countless hours talking on our back-steps; during this time he would tell me stories about his childhood or his experiences working as a law enforcement officer, and each story had a moral about making the right choices or about being a good human being. Sadly, these conversations ended on December 19, 1995. This was the most horrible day of my entire life; it was on this day that my dad died. He was killed in the line of duty while protecting two young children.
I not only lost my hero on this day, but I also lost a piece of my heart. I was only 11 years old when he was killed and now, 11 years later there is not a day that goes by that I do not think of him. He has not been here with me for quite some time, but his presence in my heart has lived on. I believe he is helped me become the person I am today. I still live by the morals he taught me on our back-steps, and continually look to him for guidance and support.
My dad was "officer friendly" for many years. He went into schools and taught students about police and safety.
My grandma. My grandma and I have an extremely strong bond and powerful relationship. She is a remarkable individual who is completely dedicated to her family. I spent the majority of my childhood with her and my grandpa at their home on Red Cedar Lake in Mikana Wisconsin. Our relationship is unique from many other grandparent/grandchild relationships. We do everything together from white water rafting in Colorado, to sea kayaking on the Pacific Ocean, and hiking Tortilla Flats in Arizona; we also enjoy doing water aerobics and lying around watching movies. She is the person I turn to for advice and support; and when I am having a bad day I call her and she always knows how to make me laugh and puts a smile on my face. No matter what she is always interested in what I am doing, has always supported me 100%, and always makes sure I know that I am loved.
My adventurous Grandma Connie and I jet skiing at the lake
My grandma and grandpa
My brother Paul and I getting ready for our cousins wedding.
My brother. My brother Paul and I have not always had the most wonderful relationship. Like many brothers and sisters we have spent a lot of time fighting, but we have spent a lot of time being friends too. Because my dad was killed when I was eleven and he was eight I have had a large impact on his life often acting as a parental figure when my mom was not home. I was there to help him with school work, help him with problems, but most importantly I wanted to be sure he had a happy childhood. He and I have helped and continue to help each other through difficult and joyful times, and no matter what we are always supporting one another.
Paul is always making me want to be a better person. He is the kindest person I have ever met, and will do anything for anyone no matter what and he does it all with a smile on his face and a positive outlook. Paul encountered major health problems when he was born and was diagnosed with a Learning Disability at a young age, thus school has not always been the easiest for him. However, he has never given up and is always fighting for what he believes in. He is currently in college studying Law Enforcement. There are not enough words to describe how proud I am of him.
Paul and I showing off our matching pajamas in 1990
The whole family and I after dinner on Sanibel Island Fl.
The Babineau's. I began babysitting for the Babineau family when I was thirteen years old and continue to nanny for them to this day. Throughout the years I have seen four babies grow into remarkable children; which is an experience without words. I love these children more than life its self. I am constantly learning from them and they are constantly amazing me.
Because I have spent so much time with their children; I have grown very close to their parents. They have been so kind and generous to me throughout the years and I am so blessed to have them as role models in my life. They have shown me the kind of parent I want to be to my future children as well as guide me to become the person I am today. No matter what happens or where I go in the future I will continue to have a strong relationship with the Babineau’s and will always be grateful for all they have done for me.
Brooke, Sydney, and I posing with Mickey Mouse on one of many trips to Disney!
Sydney and I playing in the Ocean during one of our many trips to Fort Meyers Beach Fl.
Kendahl and I smiling for a quick close-up
My Mom. My mom, Cindy is a strong woman who has gone through a lot in her life. Although we do not always see eye-to-eye on many issues; I have a great deal of respect and endless love for her. No matter what life throws at her she has always managed to rise above and conquer.
She works as a nurse and seeing the love she has for her job and her patients’ amazes me. No matter how busy or stressful her day is she continues to smile and gets the job done. She has shown me how to be an independent, self-sufficient woman which I am extremely appreciative of.
My mom and I showing off a new outfit
