Originally from Minnesota, Debbie and her husband made the decision to start a new chapter when she was 29 years old, moving to Colorado with their three daughters. The move was inspired in part by a desire to be closer to her brothers who lived there and to embrace a fresh perspective on life.

Debbie spent more than 30 years in Colorado, primarily in the Fort Collins area. During that time, she built a fulfilling life for her family while pursuing a variety of professional roles (including grocery management and real estate). As the Fort Collins area continued to grow rapidly, Debbie found that the increasing traffic and crowds made it feel less like a place she wanted to stay. In 2017, Debbie and her husband decided to return to Minnesota.

One of the most rewarding experiences in Debbie’s life has been hosting exchange students from around the world. Over the years, she welcomed more than 20 students into her home from countries including Japan, Vietnam, Germany, Kyrgyzstan, Egypt, and Italy. She loved learning about their cultures, traditions, foods, and ways of life while sharing her own. In some cases, she even had the opportunity to meet the students’ parents when they visited the United States. Many of these relationships became lasting friendships, and she still exchanges letters and messages with a student from Japan.

Debbie also enjoyed creative hobbies, especially diamond art, which she spent many hours working on. Unfortunately, arthritis has made that hobby increasingly difficult and painful. Debbie is especially proud of her role as a mother and grandmother. She loves attending her grandchildren’s activities, from cheerleading events to school and sports activities, and treasures every opportunity to support them in the things they enjoy.

Dbbie looks toward building new friendships and companionship in this season of life. Her husband passed away in 2019, and life in the country makes it difficult to meet new people. She hopes to connect with people who enjoy meaningful conversations about everyday life, personal goals, childhood memories, and Christian faith, which is an important part of who she is. To Debbie, a good friend is someone who genuinely cares, checks in regularly, and takes an interest in the important events and people in each other’s lives. She believes the best friendships are reciprocal, built on mutual support.