I celebrated my 20-year anniversary here at Schaefer's in 2004, having signed on in June 1984 as Sterling Pratt's assistant in the wine department. But I missed working around food so much that I convinced the Schaefers to open a food section, and that's where I've been ever since, selling cheese, pate and baskets full of gourmet goodies. Wine is still my favorite beverage, so you can often find me on the wine floor. I love combining the flavors of foods and wines.

In a way, my career path was determined by my family and friends, who all enjoy good food and wine. And, having grown up in Wilmette, I was introduced early in my life to Schaefer's when my parents and grandparents shopped here.

I studied art and art history at Northern Illinois University and, after college, I worked in the restaurant business, a connection that eventually led me to my job here.

My daughter, Phoebe, is in her sophomore year in high school, studying writing, with aspirations of becoming a playwright. She's also a classically trained vocalist.

I love to cook and still enjoy learning about food and wine. And, having grown up in a musical family, I also like listening to all types of music, especially jazz and classical.