Reviews with a point of view: My Story

Thanks to all of you for the lively discussion yesterday about MONEY, MONEY, MONEY. Your feedback and insights on this topic are invaluable-- so keep 'em coming. I have to say that I was also quite amused with the sidebar conversation about MACs and PCs. I felt like I was right at home! We will definitely have to keep that discussion alive on the Viewpoints site. (note to self)

Now on to today's entry.

As you all know, at the heart of Viewpoints is the reviewer. Their passions. Their loves. Their loathes. Their favorites.

So, in the spirit of getting to know each other, I wanted to go beyond my professional bio, and share with many of you what REALLY makes me tick. Hopefully this will help you put my reviews into context and help you better understand my "POINT OF VIEW".

Here's a snapshot of what makes me, me. The real deal. The scoop. The whole enchilada.

I am a mother and wife at the core. My family is the most important thing in the world to me. Some may call me a sucker for my kids. At the end of the day, I want them to know that I am there for them no matter what. And, even though I work all day, they are with me wherever I go. (okay, cheesy, I know, but the truth)

I am only as good as the people around me. People tell me that they are surprised I can juggle a lot.... a full time job, 2 small toddlers, pre-school parties, wedding planning for friends, homemade invitations for EVERY party I plan, and holiday cooking galore. But, at the center of my chaos is an amazing support network. A husband that is a great, a family that loves quality time with my kids, a great nanny, and loyal and giving friends. Oh, and a few secrets-- I am hyper organized and don't sleep much.

Art is in my soul. I grew up in a family that really appreciated the arts. So, it's no big surprise that my toddlers always have an art project in the works. We have boxes of paints, watercolors, markers (washable, of course), glue, sprinkles, glitter, buttons, felt, and every other craft material you can think of. There is always an art project going on in my home. And, in my opinion, there is no better day than taking my family to a museum, admiring art, enjoying the theater, reading books and enjoying all of Chicago's splendor.

Seeing the world is really important to me. Since I was 14, I have loved traveling the world. It started with my "exchange student" experience in Italy. I knew once I was there that there was life beyond the boundaries of the US. I developed a passion for exploring new places, meeting new people, absorbing different cultures, trying local foods, checking out museums, and visiting live theaters. It has very much enriched my life.

Giving back. Something else that is deep in my blood is giving back to the community in which I live. I am hugely into giving back to those that have given so much to me. I volunteer at my undergraduate University, I speak to aspiring female professionals, I help out at my sons school, and I help people that are not as fortunate as I am.

Be kind and be honest. Although I let my firey Italian side get to me sometimes (yes, I am nearly 100% Italian-- red hair, green eyes and all), I generally buy into the mantra of treat people the way you want to be treated. In my opinion, there isn't ever a need to be mean, rude or condescending. Everyone deserves my respect and has something to offer. Likewise, you can always assume you will get an honest answer from me. I am not one for sugar coating.

Okay, so now you know me. I look forward to KNOWING all of you better-- and of course, hearing your point of view. And, have to admit, that I feel like I know so many of you very well already. So, thanks to those that have shared and I look forward to learning more about each of you.