Some of my fondest memories as a child were walking in nature with my mother, looking at wildflowers and learning the names. Over the years, my passion for wildflowers and natural areas grew. I got a BSc. (Honours) degree in Physical Geography & Botany from the University of Alberta.

I worked as a Park Naturalist with Alberta Provincial Parks for many years including Cypress Hills, Kananaskis and Miquelon Lakes which greatly increased my knowledge of wildflowers and the urgent need for protection of natural areas.

I also have a BEd and taught Geography and Science in Zimbabwe, I also taught in Maskwacis where I had the privilege of learning about Indigenous ways of knowing about the natural world and native plants.

For the last 5 years I have led nature hikes at the Wings Over the Rockies Festival in Invermere, BC talking about the native wildflowers and environment in the Columbia Valley.

I have been involved with ENPS for many years as a volunteer and trip leader. I also coordinate the judging of the Native Garden category for Front Yard in Bloom with the City of Edmonton. Interest in native plants is increasing but more than ever we need to advocate for the protection of natural areas with the threats of climate change and human development growing.