My roots
Early influences
Early influences
I was born in Springfield, Illinois but mostly grew up with my mom in St. Louis, Missouri.
I come from a big Irish family, most of whom live in Illinois.
Early influences
Early influences
Early influences
I attended Timberland High School in Wentzville, Missouri, where I fell in love with journalism as editor of my high school paper.
I got my first dose of having to assert my freedom of the press rights all before graduating. this led me to become a trail-blazer for the First Amendment.
Home life
Early influences
Home life
When I'm not working, I love cheering on my STL Cardinals and Mizzou tigers!
I am a proud dog mom to my favorite four-legged pal, Señor Patron. He's a fawn and white Chihuahua who loves a good steak and meeting new people. We love going on walks, exploring local hangouts and finding new adventure.
Volunteering
One of my favorite times of the year is the third week in June, when I serve as a counselor at a 'burn camp' near Chicago.
Each year, the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance puts on a free, week-long summer camp for kids who have been severely burned.
Camp focuses building self-esteem in young burn survivors and connecting them with others who have been in their situation.
When I was 9-years-old I was severely burned after I spilled cappuccino in my lap. I sustained third-degree burns and needed skin grafting.
I started attending camp the summer after my burns and have returned each year. I love passing along the experiences I was so privileged to have as a camper and hope to keep camp going for many, many years
Current Situation
Currently, I live in Nashville, Tennessee where I fall in love over-and-over again with Country music.
I love checking out up-and-coming artists and listening to live acoustic.
