1. What is something that you have achieved that you’re really proud of and why?
We have three daughters between us ranging in age from 32 - 10 and they've all turned out to be the kind of people you want on your life team. Each has had a completely different set of challenges and each has dug deep, particularly our two elder girls. I'm proudly biased when I declare them to be great human beings with strong, kind souls.
2. What is one place you really want to visit and why?
For me it's more about returning to my two favourite places - the UK (give or take Boris) and Spain but with my husband this time . We've travelled (and lived) in a lot of the same places independently due to work and a cracker of an age gap but I yearn to share the revisits together.
3. If you had a million dollars to spend what would you do with it?
A U shaped home with a central courtyard that can be planted for picking and pondering
Bally loafers - many, many Bally loafers
I'd be an arse if I didn't look at contributing to making healthcare more timely and accessible across all areas of our community
4. If you had one super power what would it be?
Ha, maybe the last item above? or anticipating who wants flowers and when so I can see their faces light up when I arrive with bunches - it's a buzz every time. That and remembering things without the requisite lists tumbling out of my handbag .
5. Who has been the biggest influence in your life and why?
My middle daughter Gretchen. She has had a bloody tough road with her health since she was a tot. Her resilience and wisdom remind me to act and do better every time I see her.
More lately? Iris Apfel - an eternal Bird of Paradise, an Icon and total style renegade. What I'd give to plunder her collection of vintage lucite jewellery.
6. Do you have any pet peeves?
So facile I know but….
HKLP ( I stole that acronym) = Holds knife like pen. It's right up there next to treating people in service roles as if they've clearly peaked in life.
So, so rude. I swear everyone should have a decent stint in hospo or retail - a bit of civility goes a long way and they're helping you - just say please and thank you will you? Please.
7. What did you want to be when you grew up?
A lawyer; it was sort of the expected thing in my family and I bought into it.. However, one law lecture and I was straight over to the Social Sciences faculty. (They have better coffee and navel gazing abilities IMHO).
8. What’s the best part of living here in Martinborough/South Wairarapa?
The freedom to try something new. The enablers far outweigh the doubters . It's been a total privilege to join this community and make friends who become family (we all have 'It's a bit sh*t ' days but there's ALWAYS someone good for a restorative giggle or a stiff ' get over yourself woman)' . There are some bloody good sorts here, don't listen to negative tittle tattling - get to know people better and form your own view.
9. If you could change one thing about Martinborough/South Wairarapa – what would it be?
I keep wondering if we're missing an opportunity for a weekly market right here in Martinborough… in the new Town Hall? Can of worms? Perhaps that's been done and had problems? Perhaps it's another chance to try something new ? Does sound like a lot of lists though …
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