My name is Alyssa Manning. I am from Peru, NY. I am a daughter, sister, and mother. I have always loved reading and distinctly remember the moment that I read a book all by myself for the first time. It was a Berenstain Bears book. My favorite movies are animated features and romantic comedies. My favorite books are young adult fantasy and stories about vampires. I have a "problem" with making stuff, which lead to an undergraduate degree in fine arts with a concentration in sculpture. I love to hula hoop; it makes me feel like a kid again.

I inherited my craftiness from my mom, who is a high school art teacher. I grew up watching her sit at the kitchen table experimenting with all sorts of materials for school and for her own personal enjoyment. She taught me how to make earrings, clay beads, potato stamps, Christmas cards...and she continues still today to amaze me with new projects and ideas.

I have a streak of practicality that is becoming ever increasingly present as I get older. I get this from my dad. He is a man who works tirelessly as a retail hardware store manager during the week, and who escapes that horrific world on his days off to venture into the Adirondacks, dragging his family with him. Those adventures seemed like torture to an adolescent girl, but reflecting back on them today I realize the amazing opportunities I was given to explore our beautiful natural wonders. My appreciation of the environment around me and the pleasure I get out of being in nature stems from the early exposure I had to it, all thanks to my dad.

I have a son who is two and a half years old, and is simply amazing. I never knew how strong I could be until he came into my life. I have discovered so many things about myself since becoming a mother, one being that I have the power and ability to make a positive impact on someone's life. The thought that I can take my energies and focus them on someone to help them grow into the best possible person is astounding to me. Who knew I had such power? I certainly didn't, it was my son who helped me to realize this. It was my son who helped me realize that I could be a great teacher, and that I truly want to be a great teacher.