I also trained and became a First Responder, and answered emergency calls throughout the county for the Camden First Aid Association. Those early years showed me the hardworking nature of Maine people, as well as how much we all care for our neighbors.

In 1998 we sold our inn and I wrote my first book, Moving to Maine. I've revised it three times, with the latest edition published in 2014. In 2003, I became a Realtor, helping people to achieve their dream of selling or buying property in midcoast Maine. It's a job that has taught me the art of negotiation and compromise to achieve a goal.

Chaperoning a trip to Mississippi with Camden Hills Regional High School students introduced me to the organization Habitat for Humanity. Our local affiliate here was in trouble, and I spent six years leading the charge to reinvigorate it, serving as Board Chair while we hired a director, bought our Rockport barn, opened the ReStore, and, most importantly, ramped up our building program to help as many Knox County families as possible.  That important time taught me how powerful we can be when we band together, determined to change the status quo.
 
In 2017, I was appointed to the Camden Conservation Commission. Our hardworking team of volunteers made it our mission to clean up the harbor, prepare for the possible spread of the Emerald Ash Borer, and pass ordinances eliminating unencapsulated polystyrene. Serving for several years on this town Commission showed me the power of local legislation, as well as a renewed appreciation for our special coastal environment.
 
Along the way, my husband and I raised three children, all of whom attended Camden-Rockport schools, and are now successfully "launched" in the world. Recently our eldest and his wife (also a Mainer!) returned to the Pine Tree State to make the Midcoast their home. Not only did they adopt a rescue puppy, but they welcomed a new baby boy!  The arrival of my first grandchild, along with the celebration of Maine's 200th birthday,  make me more determined than ever to pass thoughtful laws that will make our beautiful state even better. 

Now I have a second grandson, and I am seeing firsthand the challenges young Maine working families face. Issues such as a lack of childcare, attainable housing, and a workforce shortage. There are more problems to solve here in Maine, but I'm looking forward to continuing my work, rolling up my sleeves and working hard in my third term representing the people of Camden and Rockport,