All about me

If there's a God's country in western North Carolina, I'm from there.  

Robbinsville, NC is Sandwiched between the Great Smoky Mountains and the Nantahala National Forest. It's as close to heaven as you can get. I grew up mountain-style. Where fierce faith, rugged individualism, and brilliant ingenuity are standard necessities. 

I had four brothers. We have lost two of them along the way as well as my father, all at an early age. My Dad was a trucker, family man, and community staple from Charleston West Virginia.  My mother, a waitress, a homemaker, and a prayer warrior. My maternal grandfather and great-grandmother are in the Cherokee roles. The Baker roll specifically. So, when I say I'm a native of WNC I mean it in more than one way. 

Before my dad passed we built our own home, grew a nice garden, and canned fresh food every year. I never grew tired of the beauty of our mountains. I remember, as a young child,  telling God, "I don't want to go to heaven and I don't want to go to Hell I wanna stay right there."  I was satisfied. 

I never wanted to leave but there was no room to grow. So, in May of 1988 after graduating from Oak Hill Academy I moved to Asheville. I have resided here continuously. I love Asheville's rich architectural heritage and the illustrious personalities that dot the city's background. 

In 1997 I graduated Cum Laude from Mars Hill College earning a Bachelor's in Social Work concentrating on children and families. In 1999 I completed my master's in Clinical Social Work. Focusing on individuals, groups, and families. I have worked in the human services field in this community for the past 30 years. 

I have built programs and administered services that significantly reduced multiple socioeconomic determinants including, poverty, addiction, and crime. I have fought and helped good people win cases against negligent and corrupt system workers. 

If elected I will do the same for you. 

I am a mother,  grandmother, daughter, sister and friend.  What matters to me is that my children grow up to be functional human beings with faith in Christ and compassion for those in need.  

I love the farm life.  I have a husband who is a true gift to me and anyone lucky enough to have him as a family member or friend. I enjoy spending time with my children and grandchildren. I love playing with my horses, dogs, chickens, and ducks. I love studying, writing, and taking my motorcycle on long rides.