I will begin with what is most important to me and that is my family. I was born, raised, and have lived most of my life in Iowa. I met my husband, Bob, at college and we have been married almost 34 years. We have a son, Jason, who is married to Amanda and will graduate from college in May. Since he graduated from high school in '92, we are very proud of him! Our daughter, Beth, is working on her degree in police science and works for Gateway. We are proud of her too! My mother died seven years ago and my dad is remarried to a wonderful woman that reminds me a lot of my mom. I now have two "sisters", two brothers-in-law, and two nieces; we adults all spend a week together each summer. We go to a resort in Minnesota and the guys fish while the gals shop until we drop!

Our family also includes three fur people: Maggie, Mom (of Leonard), and Leonard. I also fed and watered an outside feline family of four throughout the winter plus an extra cat who shows up from time to time. Bob says that there is a hotline in our neighborhood . . . "go to Bennett's for a handout!"

My degree is in elementary ed. and I taught kindergarten right out of college. That's when I had lots of energy and enthusiasm! After staying home until Beth was in first grade, I began subbing in the local schools. Eventually, I found myself working with special ed. students at the high school level. For the most part the experiences are very rewarding. Outside of school I play in a handbell choir at church and also play in a card club of just "gals" that have been together for over twenty years. I enjoy reading, doing counted cross-stitch, and being on the computer.

I have dropped in and out of Weight Watchers too many times to count. I know that the program will work if I work the program. When I am motivated I am REALLY motivated! But when I'm not, I'm really NOT. I am inspired, once again, by several weddings this summer. My favorite exercise is walking. I find daily support and enthusiasm from my cyber friends. I would love to meet each and every one of you someday!