I grew up on a dairy farm north of Coon Valley. I am an identical twin in a family of 11 children. I grew up in a very faithful, Catholic household, where my mother prayed the rosary three times a day until she passed away in September, 2020. I have 19 nieces and nephews, 29 great nieces and nephews, and 2 great great nieces. I am the only college graduate in my family.

I have always been interested in other cultures and have traveled to various countries such as New Zealand, Australia, Scotland, England, and Germany. I have also hosted exchange students. I love to read and paint.