1. If you weren't a lawyer, what would you be?
I would probably own a dance studio.
2. What are the three qualities that got you where you are today?
Perseverance, patience, and hard work.
3. What was the moment you felt you made it?
That has not happened, yet. I still have too many major goals to feel that way. Maybe when I retire. Knowing me, though, probably never.
4. What change would you like to see in the legal industry?
Better work-life balance for working mothers. "Work-life balance" is a phrase used and implemented differently across the industry (and everywhere, really), and I see so many more strides needed. Baker Donelson does an amazing job at allowing flexibility to be a master at both motherhood and the practice of law, but there are still so many challenges. A great example is our courthouses in Houston. If you are a nursing mother, there are zero places to pump if you have to be in court for an extended period of time. Not having that can negatively impact many things with your little one. It's a contributing factor to the struggle. After my youngest daughter was born, thank goodness for the kindness of the clerk of the court where I was in trial. Otherwise, there's no telling how I would have made it through that week.
5. How did you make your first dollar?
I babysat my brother, sister, and family friend's kids when I was in middle school. They paid me $20.
6. What was the last thing you binge-watched?
I'm catching up on the end of last season's This is Us. I just finished the Super Bowl episode!
7. What book left a lasting impression on you?
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, by Stephen R. Covey. It was part of a training course when I was first out of college. The lessons come back up all the time.
8. What movie has the greatest ending?
The Sixth Sense. It totally got me.
9. What food are you not ashamed to admit you love?
Potatoes. It's a love/hate relationship.
10. If you could live abroad, where would it be?
Paris, for sure!
11. What is one thing you're exceptionally good at?
Patience at helping others figure things out.
12. What is one thing you're epically bad at?
Keeping my house clean. It's a never-ending circle of stuff.
13. What superhero power would you want to have?
I'd love to be psychic.
14. What is something that's better in theory than in practice?
Negotiating with my 4 year old. She's the baby, so we all give her way too much leeway.
15. What store can you not leave without buying something?
Target.
16. How do you clear your mind after a bad day?
I watch T.V.
17. If you could compete in an Olympic sport, what would it be?
Figure skating because it's the best combination of dance and sport.
18. What are three qualities you thought you wanted in a partner?
Laughter, strength in character, and love.
19. What are three qualities you now know matter?
Patience, ability to communicate, and kindness.
20. What relationship advice would you give to your younger self?
Take the time to have more fun. Go on the adventures. There is less time in the future than you thought there would be.