Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in town?
I am originally from Hermosa Beach and have lived within a few miles from there my whole life!
Child(ren) and Age(s)?
Two daughters. One is 5 & one is 2.5.
One thing people would be surprised to know about you…
I like to challenge my friends and family to rap battles and I always win.
Anyone special you’d like to thank for helping you through parenthood?
A friend convinced me to do a mommy & me class when my oldest was 6 weeks old. I still see some of the women I took classes with 5 years later. Finding mothers who were in the early stages of parenting at the same time as I was became such a huge support for me.
Favorite local places to keep/shop/play with kids?
We love getting snacks at The Source Cafe in Hermosa and hitting the strand for scooter rides. We also like to wander the green belt and gather flowers and other treasures. Shopping at the Farmer’s Market on Saturday at Wilson Park is another family favorite.
Favorite things to do with your kids?
I love heading down to the beach, gathering shells, digging in the sand and putting our feet in the ocean. We often do this (even on cold days) with no particular plan but always leave the beach sandy, tired and happy.
Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, a creative endeavor, or in the corporate world? Please share!
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and art therapist but currently on leave to stay home with my children. While I have been home I started an Instagram account (@thefamilyfoodproject) and blog to share ideas for feeding families with an emphasis on whole foods, plant-focused and nutrient-dense meals. I have a strong passion for raising thoughtful eaters and teaching my children the value of cooking at home. I combined my interest in mental health and wellness with physical health by prioritizing healthy food relationships and eating habits for my two daughters. We share our journey on Instagram as part of a global community in hopes to inspire others to make positive change for themselves or their family.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
Spending my whole life in Southern California has certainly afforded me the opportunity to connect with like-minded health and wellness enthusiasts. I am so grateful for the access to the produce, weather and natural surroundings we have here and never take them for granted. My friends and family that live nearby have always been very supportive of my endeavors as well.
