About Leslie.
My name is Leslie Lavender. I go by my middle name, Janelle. I am 40 years old and was almost a Christmas baby. I am blessed to have parents who are active in my life, even as an adult. I grew up with parents that valued being there for our life instead of buying things. My father was a pastor and then became a business owner. He continues, along with my mother, to own and operate his growing business. I remember my childhood with fond memories and am wishing to provide those memories to a child of my own (adopted or biological).
In 2013, I graduated from Anderson University with my Bachelor's in Social Work. I worked for the Indiana Department of Child Services and moved from there into other areas of child protection, supporting families in learning skills to be successful. I worked for my Master's in Social Work in order to fulfill a calling to be a therapist. My schedule is flexible and am able to work from as needed.
Prior to meeting my husband and getting married, I was a foster mother to a beautiful baby girl for 7 months. I was honored to walk beside her mother and lend a hand with this amazing baby girl. She was 10 months when she came to me. I had so much fun watching her learn and grow. Though I miss her terribly, I am very happy to be able to keep in contact with her parents, who are doing well with her and I love seeing her happy.
am an animal lover. I love German Shepherds. Nick and I have 2, Kaiser and Meeka. They are gentle and love to be cuddled and play ball. They are still puppies, but are learning how to be gentle with little ones that are in our home on occasion. I can't wait to see how gentle and protective they are when they have their own little human to entertain. We also have 2 cats that are friends with the German Shepherds.
My other hobbies are photography. I am a shutter bug and was able to build a small photography business while I lived in Indiana. I enjoy making candles and embracing my creativity. I love being outside. Mowing is one of the chores that I love.
I am blessed to be able to work from home as a social worker/therapist. I love my job, but love my home more. Being able to separate work from home life is important to me. When work is done, my computer is shut off and I am able to provide 100% attention to home. I love to cook. I would love to garden, but do not have great luck with growing things. I do can apple sauce, salsa, and chili as I am able to. Family first is valuable.