I discovered yoga in 2007, while working as a chef in Philadelphia. Late nights, unbalanced schedules, and eating poorly had started to take its toll on me.  One night after an extensive Google search, with a realistic view on my commitment to "get in shape", I decided I would try yoga.

I began doing yoga the only way I could at the time - via DVD. Patricia Walden and Rodney Yee were my daily teachers and within a year's time I was able to do something I had never thought possible - I touched my toes.  The personal satisfaction and exercise "high" was real.  I was hooked, yoga became a significant part of my life.  

My first in person class was in 2008 with Gina Pachkowski, E-RYT® 200, RYT® 500, YACEP®, owner of Alluem Yoga, in Cranford NJ. Her energy, dedication and creativity had me hooked. I was a devoted student for years at Alluem.

Fast forward 14 years later, three kids, a whole lot of major life events and a cross country move to California. My personal practice was a grounding and pretty simple flow. I wanted more, my soul was ready for more. So one day I just sat down and wrote out what I wanted in my dream yoga class and began to practice it daily. In those early morning sessions I realized I didn't just want more yoga, I wanted to share yoga. Everyone should feel as amazing as I did. 

I enrolled in YogaRenew's 500 hour teacher training with the intention to deepen my practice and possibly teach. After completing my initial 200 hour certification there was no doubt in my mind, I was a teacher.  

I love that I "get to" teach private, online and in person classes. I get to teach enrichment classes at the local elementary schools and classes at our local rec center.

I am a yoga teacher, classically trained chef, knitter, wife, mom, and food adventurer. I want to inspire and guide people to live a life of gratitude, by finding their place on the mat.