I was born in Elkhart, IN where I lived most of my childhood days. I grew up swimming, playing volleyball, and enjoying summer days on the river with my friends. My favorite classes in school were anything that had to do with art. I’ve always enjoyed photography, traveling, hands-on projects, and helping others.
I met my husband my freshman year of high school at my first football game. It’s fun to relive that memory now when we watch our son play for the Braves.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My husband, Ryan, and I have four biological children – Ella(12), Jeffrey (10), Tyler(9), and Nolan(7). We are also foster parents and have had a wonderful 12 year old boy living with us for the last year. Our favorite thing to do as a family is travel the country in the 20 ft converted shuttle bus that Ryan completed 3 years ago. We’ve been to many of the country’s National parks and our kids talk about these trips all year long. It’s our greatest joy. We love adventure and hiking and seeing all the things this beautiful country has to offer. Our daughter dances at Accent on Dance in town and all our boys play just about any sport they can get involved in. Football, Basketball, Baseball, Wrestling, now they are trying Lacrosse for the first time. They keep us very busy, but we love it!
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I have been a stay-at-home mom for 12.5 years. Before that, I worked at summer camps and went to college for education. In that 12.5 years I have built a photography business that I love. I have recently started another business using my love of creating and design to help others redecorate and love their homes. Haley Winter Photography and Haley Winter Designs are my current daytime babies while the kiddos are in school.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Fork in the Road!
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I’ve lived here for 17 years but it feels like home and I miss it when I’m gone for too long.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
The most influential person I’ve met is Julie Scheibe.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Fiji in a hut on the water. Because it’s winter forever here.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
The Elf. I know every word.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
You never know what someone has just been through. Be kind and helpful.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
I don’t really have a bucket list. I come up with something I want to do or experience it and typically figure out how to make it happen.
Q: What is your go to band when you cant decide what to listen to?
Paul Simon or anything on K-Love
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Fork in the road
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
My friend Gwen from Ohio. We laugh so hard our sides hurt. And I miss her. I would take her to Fork, for sure.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I love the small town feel and the kind people.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
5 years- getting ready to send my oldest off to college, not handling it well, I imagine. 10 years- getting ready to send my baby off to college. Also, not handling it well. But then…traveling with my husband, renovating homes.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I’m kind of an open book. Most people know everything. haha
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Havasu Falls in the Grand Canyon.
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
I love fall. All things cozy. But December and Christmas are my most favorite!
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Chilis chips and salsa
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My husband. He has always put me first and does the same for our children. He helps me be less selfish.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Sweater Weather candle from bath and body and fabric softener.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Cozy, Warm, and Loud when all the kids are there.
