My Life Story in 10 Fun Facts

I’m a middle-aged woman and proud of it! Even though this stage of life is filled with transitions and questions, I believe the good far outweighs the bad. It’s been an incredible opportunity for rediscovery and self-love.

#1: Embracing Mid Life

Hi, I'm
Tessie!

I LOVE herbal tea and have been obsessed with tea parties since I was a little girl. Give me the fancy dishes, a moment of pampering, and some quiet reflection time.

#2: Tea Anyone? 

Being a mother is my most important and honorable work. Even though most of my kids are “grown up”, I still drop everything when they ring. They are some of my best friends and I can’t wait to be a grandma someday. 

#3: I'm a Mom

I’ve been married to CJ for over 25 years and seem to fall in love with him more every day. We’ve traveled the world together and he continues to make me laugh on a daily basis. 

#4: My Love Story

I love all things home design! I've trained in color theory, floor planning, and surface design, but my true training has come from managing our family of 6 over the last 25 years. I’ve lived in 13 different houses all over the world. 

#5: My Home

I was born and raised in Utah but didn’t grow up a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. My parents were free-loving hippies who moved to Utah to start a hang gliding business before I was born. I ended up joining the church when I was 18 years old and my parents have always supported me. 

#6: My Faith

I’m the proud mom of a queer daughter! When my oldest daughter, Cora, left the LDS church and told us she was gay, we fully supported her as a family. She continues to open my eyes to new perspectives and ways of thinking.
 

#7: I'm an Ally

I’m a sucker for anything tiny! Yep, I still have my miniature collection from childhood, and I love finding tiny treasures. I also love antique shopping for teacups and fancy dishes. 

#8: My Quirky Collections

I work part-time for Team Bonnie Christine. I'm currently the sales and retention manager or "Director of Smiles," as Bonnie likes to call me :) I help support students learning the art of business through surface pattern design. 

#9: Team Bonnie

I've always been creative, but I rediscovered painting and surface pattern design in my 30s. I've designed fabric, wallpaper, greeting cards, and wrapping paper. My goal is to fill my home with my own designs! 

#10: I'm an Artist and Maker