What kind of pet do you have, and how did you choose its name?
I have a tortoise shell cat named Daisy Cuddles. My daughter Camilla wanted the name Daisy and my son Crosby wanted the name Cuddles, so she got both. I also have a painted turtle who is at least 25 years old, who I named Cecil after the tortoise that races Bugs Bunny in the old Looney Toon cartoons.
Favorite quote
Do. Or do not. There is no try. - Yoda
What’s the coolest or most interesting thing you are working on now?
I’ve been researching my family tree and have found some very prominent people from the early days of the Colonies. So far, I’ve managed to trace one branch of my family back to the early 1400s in England.
What’s the farthest you’ve ever been from home?
In 2001, I traveled to Kiev, Ukraine with a dance company of which I was a member to study ballet and perform at the National Opera House. It was certainly a once in a lifetime experience!
What’s your favorite sports team?
The Pittsburgh Penguins. I’ve been a huge fan since they won the Stanley Cup back in the early ‘90s. Recently, I had been a season ticket holder for more than ten years and traveled to attend away games in several different cities. In 2009, my son was born three weeks after they won their 3rd Cup, we named him Crosby after the Pen’s captain, Sidney Crosby.
What could you give a 30-minute presentation about with no advance warning?
Harry Potter. I’ve read all the books many, many times and have seen all the movies.
What was your first job?
Teaching dance. I’m still doing that to this day!
If you had to listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
In My Life by The Beatles or Judy Collins, both versions are beautiful. When my kids were babies, I would sing this to them.
What’s your favorite place you’ve ever visited?
Maui is by far the most incredible place I’ve ever visit and I’m lucky to have been there two times. It is so beautiful and peaceful and the people who live there are some of the friendliest I’ve ever encountered.
