I was born and raised in Leitchfield, KY and moved to Murray in 2002 with my twin brother to attend Murray State University like my sister did years before us. I had an incredible experience at Murray and have stayed here pretty much ever since I arrived. I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and My Ed. S degree in Community Counseling, both from MSU. I have been married for 12.5 years to my Husband, Chris. We have three beautiful boys, 9 YO identical twins Emmitt and Gunnar, and Avett who is almost 4. Time flies. My husband is a head football coach and assistant track coach so our schedules are hectic but I’ve always thought we thrive in chaos. My family seeks refuge in nature year around and we love LBL. In the summer time we boat as much as possible and joined the camping world about three years ago. I work as Clinical Director at Bridges Family Center, and truly feel I have the best job in the world. I’m happiest outside, with trees, with good company, in total amazement of God’s work. Good music just makes it better.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I live with all boys, (even our dog is male,) and if you would have asked me over a decade ago if that’s what I wanted I would have thought no way. My greatest honor is being Chris’ wife, second being Emmitt, Gunnar, and Avett’s mom. All my boys are amazing and I’m totally content following them around cheering them on in whatever they are doing.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I have been a mental health counselor for 12 years and feel so blessed to walk alongside people and be a part of their healing journey. I have worked at Bridges Family Center for 10 years and love my work family. I deeply believe in what we do and will always fight for emotional wellness.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Jasmine, The Keg, Burrito Shack, and Dumplilns, I could list more.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
19 years
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
I would say all my clients. People are interesting and I love them all.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Honestly it would be in our country. I really want to travel to the New England States, Hawaii, California, and Alaska. Going out West this summer and looking forward to it.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Movie would be Peggy Sue got married, Titanic, and The Evening Star. I am a die hard fan of Grey’s anatomy and will truly grieve that show when it’s off air. Love This is Us, and way too many shows on Discovery+ and/or HGTV.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Be you and be proud to tell your story. Don’t compare yourself to others.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Go to a concert in the Red Rocks and hold a sloth. Not at the same time!
Q: What is your go to band when you cant decide what to listen to?
Lumineers or Caamp. Both are amazing.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Matt B’s and even though not in Murray Belew’s
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?
I would eat lunch with Brene Brown who is in my field b/c her work is changing the world and her podcast has changed my life. I would take her to Don Sol, The Burrito Shack, La Cocina, or The Willow Bistro.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I love that it is a small town but with good local businesses near the beautiful Kentucky Lake.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I pray in 5-10 years I’m doing what I am today, loving the heck out of my family and serving my clients.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I would say most people may not guess how much I love the outdoors and and people always think I’m younger than I am.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
I could name so many places but as of recent I would say Gatlinburg. We camped there last summer and I have so many pictures memories I will carry with me forever.
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
Favorite Month is October b/c of the fall and campfires. Favorite holiday would be Christmas but I love Halloween with my kids. Best single day is any day I’m camping with my family.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
My marriage, most days!
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
All my boys, my dog included.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
burning Tobacco barns hands down, Best smell in the world.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
safe haven, heart, a piece of me.
