My character is forged from experience.

 

When I started my life, it wasn't so easy. Chronic asthma had me in and out of the hospital dozens of times per year as a baby and toddler. I remember being in damp and cold oxygen tents for days and days devoid of human contact.

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As I grew and treatments for my condition advanced, I began to leave that part of my life behind. By the time I was an early teen, I had become involved in sports and advanced to a high level in the activities that I took on.

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There seemed to be something missing in my life in my late teenage years that I couldn't pinpoint. I turned to the distraction of alcohol and drugs to fill the emptiness. That led to over a decade of darkness in my life, until at the age of twenty-five, when I knew I could not last.

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For many years I ignored that part of my story. I hid it out of shame. But, today is different as the gifts of resilience that time brought me are abundant, as anyone who has overcome addiction can tell you.

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As part of a commitment to wellness during my years of recovery, I took up rock climbing and mountaineering, finally becoming a Certified Climbing Instructor in 2000. I spent many years climbing and living in the outdoors. In particular, on one trip, I spent ten days alone in the wilderness on Vancouver Island. Those were some of the most challenging moments of my life that led to the most inner growth.

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I climbed all over the Western part of North America and summited many peaks, with Mount Rainier being one of the most memorable.

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In 2006, my firstborn, Madison, came along, and I found my focus shifting from the mountains to raising my daughter. Then, in 2008, my secondborn, Matthew, made his way into the world.

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I shifted my focus from the mountains to my family and my career.

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Taking on a leadership position in a large local government organization is when I built my reputation as a leader. Personally and professionally, I inspired people to be at their best.

 

In 2017 I became a Certified Life & Leadership Coach and started Small Pause Coaching and Consulting, leaving my corporate role behind,

 

My time in the trenches of leadership and less-than-ideal circumstances has taught me how to thrive with limited resources and become present to what is essential. In addition, I learned that there is always something, no matter how small, you can be doing to move you closer to your goals and call these the 'baby steps.'

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Combining my practical leadership experience with my coaching certification from the Newfield Network (NCC), my ACC accreditation from the International Coaches Federation (ICF) and as a graduate of 'Unbridling Your Brilliance' Equine Guided Learning Apprenticeship Program, I have gained a wealth of wisdom on how to support others in achieving their goals.

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After noticing a shift in the world with the increased uncertainty, I obtained two certifications from the HeartMath® Institute, which have developed a set of techniques structured around an optimal approach to life and stress management. The HeartMath® Practioner, HeartMath® Coach/Mentor and HeartMath® Trauma-Sensitive Practioner Certifications have become well established in my coaching practice.

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At present, I call Steveston, BC, home and live there with my two school-aged children, who have taught me more about leadership and personal growth than I ever could have imagined is possible. When I pause work, I spend my time kayaking in the mouth of the Fraser, walking the expanse of dyke trails Steveston offers and keeping fit. As an experienced rock climber and mountaineer, I also enjoy getting out and connecting with nature.

 

My passion for life as a learner is contagious and inspiring.