I moved to the U.S. from India more than 25 years ago, first to Maryland, and then to Ohio. As a family, we’ve traveled all over the world and most of the U.S., but I still find so much to discover around Akron and Cleveland. You’ll find me most mornings in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, looking for bald eagles, beavers, and wild turkey, and some evenings admiring the sunset at the Solstice Steps or Edgewater Park. The Fall Hiking Spree and running the Akron Marathon relay are two of my favorite annual events. In summer, I like to pick up produce from local farms (Greenfield Berry Farm or Crown Point) or the Countryside Farmers’ Market, just one of the many farmers markets near me. There’s so much to savor at the wonderful area restaurants, wineries, and bakeries, too.  (Pro tip: get to Blue Door early before they run out of croissants!) When I’m not checking out libraries, theaters, or museums, you can usually find me on a yoga mat. There are wonderful yoga studios in the area, and if you like outdoor yoga, you can find a group practicing at area beaches and parks.

I have a background in advertising and marketing communications and am also a freelance writer. I’m involved with Toastmasters which is a great way to polish communications skills, as well as with area writing groups and book clubs. One of the best ways to connect with others has been through volunteering, and I foster dogs through the Golden Treasures rescue group, and also love One of A Kind Pets with its Running Dogs program!