How does your cultural background influence your daily life and decision-making?
I was brought up in a bucolic setting in Rhode Island. We were in the country, had a lot of land, animals, and a great vegetable garden. I spent a lot of time walking through woods, riding horses and basically enjoying our surroundings. We weren’t rich in the monetary sense really, but we were very rich in our environment. Because of my beginnings I am always drawn to the outdoors and appreciate alone time where I can hear the sounds of nature and my inner voice. To this day, I have to carve out time to be alone and in open space, whether it be at the ocean, or in the hills/mountains. I have been fortunate throughout my life to live in beautiful places with these elements close by. I believe my surroundings definitely have an impact on my decision making. Like many artists, when I am not performing, much of my time is spend in quietude. I guess it prepares me for the energy it takes to perform.
What does wellness mean to you, and how do you prioritize it in your daily life?
Wellness is a priority to me. Without it, nothing can go well. I have always been active and into fitness, and I am fortunate to have good genes, as well. The old adage -“Without health you are nothing” is absolutely true. Our bodies house our spirit, so it is very important to nourish the body. “You are what you eat” another adage that holds major truth. How can we expect to perform at full capacity when we feed our body with junk food and no nourishment? It just doesn’t make sense. Your car doesn’t run on bad gas – and we don’t run well when we put in bad food.
Are there specific wellness rituals or practices that you swear by for maintaining balance and harmony?
I exercise every day. I walk. I eat as clean as possible. I have a trainer. Ii take time out to breathe and reflect. And I sing. Singing is health to me. I use my voice every day.
Describe your relationship with food. Are you a foodie, a health enthusiast, or a bit of both?
I would say I am both. Having had the beginnings where we had a beautiful vegetable garden, I crave fresh food. If you’ve ever eaten a tomato fresh from the garden you will relate to what I am saying. There is nothing like it. We ate what was in season.
I also appreciate the artistry that many chefs bring to their cooking. When they create these marvelous dishes that are not only delicious, but beautiful to look at, as well, I am thrilled!
I will splurge on an evening of fine dining with great appreciation.
Do you have a favorite cuisine or dish that holds a special place in your heart?
I am an Italian cuisine enthusiast. I have been to Italy several times and the food is amazing! It is fresh, it is divine! I love the different varieties of food from the different parts of Italy. There they also take advantage of the freshest foods available and in season and create dining experiences you don’t forget. They also don’t rush you along. They allow you to savor the experience of lunch or dinner.
When I cook, it is overwhelmingly Italian food that I prepare. I also married an Italian so he appreciates the Italian dishes I cook for us!
Are you a sports enthusiast, and if so, which sports do you follow or participate in?
I’m not a crazy sports fan, but, since I married a fan, I have become more engaged in a few sports. Basketball is one game I love to watch. And on occasion I will watch football.
Do you have a favorite sports team or athlete that you passionately support?
I was a fan of the Lakers for many years, and because I am from New England, I liked the Patriots.
What’s your all-time favorite movie, and what about it resonates with you?
I have so many favorite movies. One in particular stands out. “An Affair To Remember” with Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr. It is about the importance of timing and how miscommunications can ruin a great beginning when you are vulnerable to love. How things that seem so perfect can go so terribly wrong, and then when you have lost all hope, something happens (is it fate?) and you find that all is not lost after all. Love finds a way. Love wins in the end when it is meant to be. It is so satisfying. I do love a good ending.
Do you have a preferred movie genre, or do you enjoy exploring a variety of genres?
I like relationship films….Casablanca is another one.
Can you recall a film that has had a significant influence on your perspective or outlook on life?
I like films that show when things are meant to be they will work out, and when they are not meant to be that it’s the lesson we are left with to carry on for our greater good. I like films that show transformation in characters.
What is your favorite album of all time?
This is too difficult to answer. Lately I am really loving the music of John Batiste. He is an incredible spirit and creates awesome music that transcends time. I also love Billie Holiday, Marvin Gaye, Sting, etc. etc.
Tell us about your latest project
I’m working on two singles at the moment. I am taking songs from the 60’s 70’s and reimagining them with a more current feel. These, are now the “New Standards”! Hard to believe. I will keep you posted!
