Someone You Should Know: Carleen Rieger

Editor's Note: After going from stay-at-home mom to full-time working mom, Carleen Rieger said she found a "new beginning" as publisher of Livingston Macaroni Kid, an online resource for families. Here, the mother of two boys, ages 14 and 10, shares a good book, her favorite spots in Brighton and her philosophy that a happy mom is a good mom.

Name: Carleen Rieger

Age: 40

Hometown: Pinckney for 10 years. Go Pirates!

Occupation: Publisher of Livingston Macaroni Kid

What you do: As publisher of Livingston Macaroni Kid, my job is to share family-friendly events and news with families in Livingston County who strive to have fun together and to do so in a economical, healthy, Earth-friendly and community-driven way. I am constantly looking for fun events for all ages, birth up to age 18.

Mission statement: My mission is for the families in Livingston County to know that there is plenty to do in our area and it can be done economically. I am constantly in search of discounts, freebies and events that just can't be missed. I also realize that happy moms are good moms, so I try to focus on their needs as well. I want to encourage families to get off of the couch, get moving and participate in benefits, fundraisers and to support their local businesses.

Key to success: I'm a firm believer in the power of positive thinking. Whether you think you can or you can't, you are always right.

A favorite book and why: There are so many wonderful books that I have enjoyed and savored, so it is hard to pick just one. Most recently, one book that particularly touched me was The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein. I believe that our pets come and go from our lives, and they have a purpose while they are part of our family. This book healed the grief I was experiencing after losing two wonderful dogs within a couple of years and made me step back and appreciate all that we are given. Everyone, including friends, family, strangers and animals, deserves attention and empathy.

Favorite Brighton spot:  in the winter and Bishop Lake Campground in the spring, summer and fall.

In my next life, I want to come back as: A professional female athlete and an author. Yes, both.