I was born and raised in Beaverton, Oregon, just outside Portland. I grew up enjoying a  wonderful and loving childhood with my three brothers—one of whom is my twin!

I graduated from Oregon State University in 2007 with a degree in merchandising management, then took a risk and moved to San Diego, California. I have always wanted to live in the sunshine by the beach so I thought…what’s stopping me? It was a bit scary since I didn’t know a single soul there…but soon made friends by hanging out on the beach and randomly talking to strangers haha (this is true).

After a year of being in San Diego I was lucky enough to meet the man I would later marry. After three years of marriage we welcomed a beautiful baby girl we named Ireland.

My husband’s kind heart and beautiful soul touched everyone that he came in contact with. He had a magnetic personality and a true passion for helping people. Unfortunately, just a few short weeks after Ireland’s birth, my husband’s kind heart and beautiful soul struggled with life. Ireland and I, and our wonderful friends and family, lost him to suicide.

Now, I’m a single mom raising my beautiful, precious daughter alone. It’s not always easy, but when I look into the loving eyes of my amazing daughter Ireland, I feel blessed and filled with hope and inspiration for the future. I look forward to every new day.

Read more…about Juelia