I moved to Eden Prairie in 2009. I was a newly divorced single mom and I wanted to find a community with great schools for my kids that would still allow me to commute downtown easily. When I found a move-in ready home in The Preserve, I knew Eden Prairie was the right spot for my small family.
My children are grown now, but I have stayed put because Eden Prairie feels like home. In 2022, I left my career in corporate America to start my own business. I love helping the residents of Eden Prairie find wellness and peace.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family. Do you have any pets?
I am a mom to two human children; Keira is 25 and Isaac is 23. I am also fortunate enough to be a dog-mom to Mr. Waffles who is a Chinese Shar Pei-Yellow Labrador mix.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in Eden Prairie?
I have lived in Eden Prairie for 14 years and have operated a small business here for one year.
Q: What inspired you, or led you to your current career/endeavor? What do you love the most about what you do?
I loved my career in corporate America, and I cried when I told my leader I was leaving to pursue my own business venture. My story is not uncommon, during the pandemic, I took stock of my life and decided I wanted to start a new chapter in my life. I turned a hobby into a full-time business, Eden Biofeedback. Biofeedback is FDA approved for stress reduction and pain management. It is extremely rewarding and fulfilling to help people and animals reduce their stress. Each of my clients is inspiring and I look forward to each appointment.
Q: What are some of you favorite restaurants in Eden Prairie?
I love Campiello, the eggplant parm is to die for. Godavari Indian restaurant has the most amazing dosa and I can’t recommend them strongly enough. TequeArepa is great for arepas, one of the most versatile and comforting Mexican foods. My family loves Osaka Sushi restaurant, both for dine-in and take out. Last but absolutely not least, The Original Pancake House is a classic favorite for good reason.
Q: Who is someone interesting in our our community that you have met or inspires you?
Two people spring right to mind when I think of inspiring Eden Prairie locals. Matt Rosen aka Sergeant Shortbread. After trying some amazing cookies on vacation, this retired military man donned an apron to try and recreate them. He ended up baking himself a successful business and his cookies are available in local coffee shops, farmers markets and directly from Matt. Alex Youngblood is a highly skilled and educated chef. During the pandemic, she took stock, chef joke, of her career and decided to go out on her own. She does in-home meal prep for her clients and focuses on special diets. It’s life changing for people to have their time back and to have amazing, chef-quality meals in their fridge all the time.
Q: What is you favorite season? Favorite holiday?
My favorite season is winter, hear me out on this one. Although I don’t do any winter activities, I love that time of year. I love the foods of winter, chili, soup, fresh bread or nachos during a football game. I love the clothes of winter, who doesn’t love to snuggle up in a sweater and cozy pants?!
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go, and why?
I love to visit my brother who lives in a suburb of Tokyo, Japan. I get there as often as I can to see him and his young family.
Q: What is a current or former business that makes you the most nostalgic about Eden Prairie?
When I think about Eden Prairie nostalgia, Smith Coffee House comes to mind immediately. The Schuster family has done such a beautiful job with the historic Smith Douglas More House. In addition to a lovely ambience, they have an inspired menu. The baked items are all wonderful and fresh. They also have a wide variety of sandwiches both for breakfast and lunch. I also remember when the library was a Lund’s and they had a great restaurant.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
In the early winter of 2023, my mom and I plan to travel to the UK to ride the Dartmouth Steam Railway’s Christmas Train of Lights.
Q: Who or what inspires you to be a better person?
Being a parent is one of the best motivations to be a better person. Your children are always watching you to learn about how to be an adult. That is such an honor and responsibility and I have always taken it seriously. Kids also inspire you by their own actions and presence. Watching my children grow and become adults brings such joy and inspiration every day.
Q: What is something unique or interesting that most people don’t know about you?
One of my hobbies is aerial silks and I still perform sometimes.
Q: What is your favorite movie or TV show?
I love the movie Best In Show. It’s a behind the scenes mocumentary about dog shows.
Q: What advice do you like to share with other people?
Take care of yourself. You are your most important asset. Your family, business and relationships will all suffer if you are not healthy and well.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 or 10 years?
Happy!
Q: If you could have lunch with someone alive or not, who would you choose, and why?
I would love to have one more meal with my father and grandmother who have passed. I would invite my mother and brother to join us!
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
I love Madeline Island in Lake Superior. It is a picturesque place that feels unspoiled and magical.
Q: What are your favorite hobbies or activities that you enjoy?
I enjoy spending time with family, friends or animals.
Q: Are there any books that you are currently reading, or would recommend to a friend?
My favorite author is Peter Beagle. He is a gifted writer and I particularly enjoy his books of short fiction. They frequently read like fables for grown ups, in a good way.
Q: If you could have a super power, what would it be?
I would like the ability to heal others, physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. If possible, I would like to do so without having to take on all of their issues myself.
Q: What accomplishment are you the most proud of in your life?
I find strong, nourishing relationships to be the most rewarding and valuable thing that I have. I am proud of the number of fantastic people I am able to call friend or family.
Q: Finally, what are 3 words or phrases that come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Safe, Warmth, and Love.
