Describe your business. Did you find it, or did it find you?

Eureka, I found it! I have always considered myself a happy, thankful person. What I did not realize was the importance of focusing on the positives of everyday life. I had the opportunity to hear Professor Robert Emmons from UC Davis speak on cultivating gratitude. Through his research, he found that when people regularly focus on being grateful their emotional well-being increases, which creates physical and psychological effects that lead to better outcomes in different aspects of their lives. I started a gratitude journal instantly, and I started one with my daughter. Within a few months, I was writing my first children’s book about gratitude and working with designers to create stylish keepsake gratitude journals.

How are you involved with both the community and your customer?

I’m really looking forward to working with schools to encourage children to keep a gratitude journal. My Gratitude Journals will also be giving back a portion of proceeds to support a local nonprofit that helps fund adoptions.

What life accomplishments are you most proud of?

I’m very proud of starting the Females in Science Club at Oak Ridge High School in the ’90s where we ended up placing third in a national robotics competition. It was an amazing learning experience and a ton of fun. I’m also very proud of my first children’s book, My Grateful Day, and these keepsake gratitude journals.

Where do you and your family go locally to have fun?

My daughter asks me weekly to go to Bouncetown. I love that I have the choice to join in or sit back and chat with friends.

What’s your favorite local business other than your own?

I love shopping at Starlight Starbright—I know I can always find the perfect gift to give someone special. I was so excited when they agreed to do a book signing for My Grateful Day this summer (visit their Web site for date details).

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