Name: Joyce Nolan

Street: Elliott Street, Hamilton

Family: I am married and have two children who grew up in Hamilton.

Occupation: Acupuncturist 

Hobbies/interests: I love hiking, yoga, family gatherings and learning something new every day.

What are you passionate about? I am passionate about my family and my work (acupuncture, nutrition and helping others). I am also passionate about being an advocate for the elderly and young children.

What did you study in school? I have my Master's degree in both Education and Psychology and taught for many years. Then I discovered acupuncture and got my master's degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Are you utilizing this subject now? Yes, I am using all aspects of my education. Lots of people don't know much about acupuncture so I am 'teaching' each time I practice acupuncture.

Best book: I have a love affair with each book I read. There is something special about each one. Right now I am reading "The Christmas Sweater," by Glenn Beck and recently finished "Hamilton, Images of America," by Annette Janes.

Best movie: "The Way"

Dream vacation: My dream vacation would be the entire family going someplace together.

Favorite tradition? Christmas holds lots of traditions for my family. I love the family gathering on Christmas Eve and on Christmas Day, and of course Midnight Mass.

Who is your favorite local resident? Mrs. Veronica Sargent, my next door neighbor. She grew up in Hamilton and has many stories about the history of the town that date back a few generations.

What have you done in your life that makes you proud? I have two grown children who bring me much pride and joy in my life. For that I am most proud!

How long have you lived in Hamilton-Wenham? We have lived in Hamilton for 36 years (can it really be that long?).

Why did you chose Hamilton-Wenham? We moved to Hamilton because of the school system. However, the added benefits of living in Hamilton-Wenham are the close proximity to Boston, the beaches and the mountains. Hamilton offers much more that just the great school system.

What is your favorite shop? Marybeth's...have you ever gone in there and not felt like you were a part of their family?

What is a fact about you that most don’t know? I spent the month of September 2011 on a pilgrimage (El Camino de Santiago de Compostela). What made it more memorable is the fact that I was able to do this with my daughter, Kim. We hiked 400 miles over a 30 day span of time backpacking all the way across northern Spain.

Where would someone see you around town? Green Meadows Farm...I love going out in the fields and picking the herbs, veggies and flowers.