Hey Everyone, meet Star. She is an amazing woman with a beautiful outlook on life. Star has been coming to Roots almost the whole two years we’ve been open. She always has a smile on her face and kind words to share with us. She’s engaging and spunky. We sat down and asked her a few questions:

Sum yourself up in two sentences.

Kid in a ‘grown-up body’. Someone who loves life and all the beautiful things it consists of.

If there was advice you could give to your younger self what would it be?

Stay in school and stay on track; let education come first. As a teen I dropped out of school and had to go back to get my GED. This led to challenges and struggles that probably could have been avoided. I simply lost focus with the chaos that was going on at home. These challenges have helped me in my parenting however. They have given me different tools in raising my kids that I might not have had otherwise. I have been able to build a trusting relationship with them and allow them to be themselves while still being their mother. My parents weren’t always around when I was growing up which I think is what led me to desire a deeper relationship with my kids. I want to be around for them and there for them whenever they need me. But all of this would have been a bit easier had I stayed in school and received a solid education.

What is some life advice you would give others?

Don’t judge others quickly. Everyone has a story and everyone has something that has shaped them. People have lives that are different from yours but they are often lives we can learn from and celebrate. I enjoy to be a person who changes other people’s perceptions. Sometimes people look at me and my life and where I live and make different assumptions. When they talk with me and get to know me however, they find that their original presumptions weren’t true. The way I was raised was a challenge but it also exposed me to experiences that allowed me to understand compassion in different ways. My parents would often have people stay with us who were struggling. People from various walks of life who were in need of a bit of help. These people all had stories that led them to where they were and it was enlightening getting to know those stories. It’s important to remember that there is always something more than what’s on the surface and to choose to get to know that before forming opinions. It’s something I always tell my children, always get to know the person.

What is something that makes you smile?

Fart jokes. Also making other people smile and laugh.

What’s the best vacation you’ve been on and why?

My vacation with my husband to Jamaica. It’s so beautiful there, the food is amazing, and the people are so kind. The trip was years into our marriage, but was the first one we took together because we were never able to take a honeymoon. It was a wonderful bonding experience for us. It was the first time I had been to the ocean. It was also where discovered my fear of the ocean and of boats. It was my first time on a plane as well. I discovered I don’t like those either. The vacation was wonderful though, having a week off and just spending it with my husband.

What is your most bizarre talent? 

The crazy thing I can do with my thumb. It’s double-jointed, but only one thumb. Both my elbows are double-jointed too. Also probably my ability to make friends anywhere.

What is your favorite thing about Roots?

The staff is definitely my favorite part. Everyone is so down-to-earth and kind. It’s great to have a place to go where you feel welcomed every time you’re there. The staff here know my name and they know me. You guys even put a star on my cup when you make my drink. Just those small touches; they all make a difference. Everyone is so humble and gracious. It keeps me coming back every time and anyone else I bring here says the same thing.