The Journey

My passion for teaching and nurturing life has always extended beyond the classroom, and into Nature. 

Over the past two decades, my journey has woven together a deeper love for Nature, and teaching Children in hands-on Learning.

In 2002 I served as Director of a Citrus Springs Community Playgroup. Starting with a handfull of members we grew into a vibrant Community of 50 by 2006. During that time I saw a need for social and educational support sytems and in 2007 I created Stay N' Play in Inverness, Florida. It was a natural learning, hands on inspired Educational Play Center, with a Pre-School curriculum. Unfortunately the economy degrated, and extreme gas prices of $5 forced many Moms to stay at home.

After closing the business I taught several Art camps featuring Sea Turtles and Manatees. I also became an active volunteer in Cub Scouts with my children.

In 2009 I transitioned to a Substitute Teacher within the Citrus County Elementary School System, teaching Pre-K to 5th Graders, as well as Art, Librarian, and PE classes. In 2011 I completed my Teachers Certification and became a 2nd Grade Teacher. I later took time off to Homeschool my own children. 

In 2016, I founded Sojourners Retreat, where I lived off-grid for a time, Co-Creating with Nature for nearly a decade. I spent two years in a RV, six years in a tent, and last year completed an A Frame Sleeping Cabin with help of famiy, friends and Community.

This immersive lifestyle became my living certification in Permaculture. As I built self-sustaining systems, planted diverse ecosystems, and observed and lived in rhythm with the elements.

In 2023, I joined the Withlacoochee / West Coast Permees, a grassroots Permaculture group which gathers monthly to share meals and work on projects that regenerate Land and Community.

 In 2024, I formally completed my Permaculture Design Certification, affirming the path I’ve walked for years — living, teaching, and creating in harmony with the land and those who inhabit it.

In 2025, my commitment to earth-based education led me to become a Youth Permaculture Teacher at Barefoot Children’s Ranch, where I now guide young learners in discovering their connection to nature through art, planting, lessons, and play.

I am now in process of becoming a provider for Florida Homeschoolers Step-Up Program, and will begin teaching classes in July at Sojourners Retreat.