Irena is a proud immigrant, creative, professional, daughter, wife, and above all - she is a proud mother of two exuberant little girls. She was born in the former Soviet Union and raised in Silicon Valley among transplants from around the world. She grew up in an America of possibilities, where hard work really could create change. Through grit, resourcefulness, and a bit of luck, Irena’s parents gave her choices they didn’t have.

She chose a doctorate in psychology, a career supporting early childhood development, and a quiet life in suburban Colorado. Irena married a man with a Southern accent and a knack for teaching teenagers. Together they’re unfurling layers of cultural indoctrination and creating a home worthy of the two souls raised there.