“While I was in seventh grade, I found myself intrigued with travel and remember writing a travelogue on Portugal for an English assignment. I started learning Spanish in sixth grade and continued at St. Olaf. I added French for three years in high school, then majored in French education and minored in Spanish.

I loved the idea of travel to France and Spain more than I excelled in either language! My goal was a semester abroad in Avignon in 1969, which ultimately provided many happy memories! A great time was our two-week Easter break for more travel experiences to Germany and Italy. Once the semester ended, our group spent time in Paris before returning home.

For one year in 1970-71, I taught French II and III in a small Illinois town. I loved it, but circumstances changed and I left. Fast forward to 1999, when I started another career — this time in travel. I became a travel advisor for a local company, and after seven years began working at home as an independent contractor for the same company. From 1997 to 2024, I have been helping folks plan dream trips and having the opportunity myself to explore Europe from top to bottom.

Interesting how my fascination with travel led me to languages at St. Olaf and the college’s study-abroad program. For the last 15 years I have had the best job: seeing the world.”