You’re an Ironton High School graduate, attended college in Huntington and were Miss West Virginia in 1989. What do you love about the Tri-State?

Everything, mostly the people! It’s home. I’ve met folks from all walks of life and very few are fortunate enough to have deep roots in one place that no matter where they reside they have a place to call home.

Your husband is famous musician/actor Gerardo and your son, Jaden, is an aspiring rapper. Did it surprise you to have a son follow in his dad’s footsteps?

On one hand Jaden wants to follow in his dad’s footsteps and Eminem’s! On the other hand Jaden is also very smart. He’s 12 and already talks about college and all the things he is going to invent. I’m hoping for the educated route. He can use his talent for writing to write term papers not raps!

You have begun a career in reality TV alongside your family. Did you ever think you would end up on TV?

It was always a dream of mine when I was younger. I was a model. I wanted to be an actress. I ended up a wife and a mother. I wouldn’t trade that for anything. At my age I thought the likelihood of a career like this for me was over. You never know what surprises lay ahead if you are willing to stand on the ledge and take a leap of faith.

You and Gerardo are splitting time between the Tri-State and California while filming. What are some major differences between your life there and your life in the Tri-State?

It’s two different worlds. In Los Angeles, it’s a busy hectic life! Filming, preparation for filming, meetings and all the things that I do regularly…cooking, cleaning and taking care of three kids and a husband who doesn’t necessarily share those duties. Yes they are getting older but the older they get the more care they need! In the Tri-State I’m busy taking care of my family but the extra time is full of painting, writing and spending time with my family. I love them both. I’m truly blessed!