I was born and raised in South Africa. I came to the USA as an Au-Pair in 1998 and lived with a loving family in Northbrook, IL. I met my husband Troy on a blind date in the northern suburbs and we’ve been happily married for 23 years.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My parents and brother reside in Johannesburg. I have two kids, Carter 15 and Alexis 12 years old.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I favorite restaurants are Altamura Pizza and Nourished.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
My husband and I lived downtown Chicago for 2 years, 2 years in Stamford, CT, 2 years in Clarendon Hills and 15 years in Hinsdale.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Heena Musabji is a friend and local parent who volunteers at ProBono Network. ProBono Network offers free legal services to those in need.
I would go home to South Africa and spend quality time with my family.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Favorite movie is Dirty Dancing. TV show is Sex and the City.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
- Take a deep breathe
- Focus on activities that bring you joy
- Make time for deep connection with others
- Listen more
- Self compassion
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Travel to Italy, take in the beautiful sights, enjoy delicious food/wine with my family.
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
John Bon Jovi
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Nourished located in Downtown Hinsdale and Luxxe Honor – organic, holistic shop with all natural products in La grange.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Sean Corn, yoga teacher and lunch would be a picnic at Fullersburg Woods.
My favorite thing is to do in my community is to enjoy long walks in Fullersburg Woods.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Living somewhere by the water and mountains. Working as a Health Coach/Personal Trainer.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I love attending gong baths at Yoga Among Friends in Downers Grove. For a Gong bath, you lay down on your yoga mat while you’re “bathe” in the healing vibrations of sound.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Reims in northeastern France’s Grand Est region. It’s the unofficial capital of the Champagne and the most beautiful historic village.
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
Favorite month is Spring. Favorite holiday is Christmas and the best single day on the calendar is July 4th.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Early morning yoga and meditation.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My kids because they are my biggest teachers.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Levander and Frankincense
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Comfort, safety, love.
