Evergreen, Colorado is where I grew up and currently reside. Evergreen is one of those towns that you just don't ever want to leave once you visit; gorgeous views, nature in harmony, an eclectic art scene, friendly people, homes to die for, and convenient. A mere 30-minute drive from Denver, one can easily live in Evergreen and commute for work. Every day driving home to Evergreen from the city feels like a vacation.
My love of horses and riding began at the age of 12 when I had an opportunity to take a riding lesson with a friend. My initial focus was in equitation, which evolved into training in the hunter jumper discipline. The majority of my competitions/shows were in Illinois and the surrounding region during my years living in Chicago. My horses were board at Glen Grove Equestrian Centre in Morton Grove, IL just outside of the city. This was home to the infamous Helen Brach, the Brach candy heiress, scandal. It was rumored that her body was buried underneath one of the cement aisles just outside of the stall of my horse Chandler. An A&E documentary was filmed there and Chandler became instantly famous when he stuck his head out of his stall just as the camera folks were capturing footage in the aisle. No, he did not entertain autograph requests.
The United States Equestrian Federation is the National governing body for equestrian sport. I maintain a competing Senior Amateur membership, as well as active status with the United States Hunter Jumper Association. The Federation has been in existence since 1917 and trains, selects, and funds our U.S. Equestrian Team. This organization is integral to the prosperity of the sport and provides cohesiveness for a variety of equine interests.
The Evergreen Chamber Orchestra has been delighting audiences since 1982. With William Hill taking over as Music Director in 2014, the ECO is poised for remarkable growth and renewed energy. I became a member of the Board in 2015, which is an honor and extraordinary opportunity to work with some of the most talented musicians in Colorado.
I love dogs almost as much as I love horses and am, particularly, fond of French Bulldogs. Where they lack in size they more than make up for with personality and holy smokes do they have character. As much as I advocate for animal rescue, I did end up acquiring my babes from a very reputable and consciences breeder in the Ukraine. Yes, these dogs have passports and with more ink than my own. This breed is a very sensitive one when it comes to health issues, so it is imperative to do your homework before making the commitment. The extra time and energy is SO worth it, as it is heartbreaking to see a pet suffer due to irresponsible breeding.
On July 25th, 2015 I completed, and passed, the physical testing to complete my application to become a volunteer firefighter in Evergreen. This was one of the most difficult tasks I have endured in my life, which elevated my respect and admiration even higher for these dedicated and brave men and women. On July 26th I received the official invitation for the 2015-2016 Academy; a day that I will never forget. I was given the opportunity to stand alongside these amazing folks and provide the ultimate of community service. Firefighting, EMS, search and rescue, and first responder are all assigned to volunteers in Evergreen and cover 120 square miles. This will be a challenging journey for me, but unparalleled in its potential to impact my community.
I am a long-time supporter of The British Horse Society for several reasons. For starters, they are the world's leading equestrian qualifications and approvals system. The BHS maintains rigorous standards behind their certifications, which ensures you are training with some of the best in the business. The primary purpose of The BHS, however, is in welfare services to horses. It is through education, support, and awareness that The BHS is able to prevent neglect and improve equine welfare across the globe. I just love these folks. Take a moment to check out all that they do at www.bhs.org.uk.
I was very lucky to have found this 1956 Cliff May in Harvey Park within a couple days of it hitting the market in 2011. I was the third owner; the original owners rented the house to the same couple for over 20 years and the gentleman I bought it from did no work to the home. This left all of the original design elements intact, albeit in very poor condition. I refinished the oak floors first and then tackled stripping/sanding all of the wood beams. This was no easy feat, as over 15 layers of old paint clung on for dear life. I chose an Eco-friendly flooring, Marmoleum, for the kitchen and penny cork for the bathroom. All of the fixtures were, either, made by artists found on Etsy or purchased at specialty vintage shops specializing in Danish Mid-Century pieces. I replaced all of the plumbing in the house and updated the electrical. I did hire out the main electrical panel replacement. I am no fool.
