Meet a CSGer: Kara

Noodle lover. Newly-minted art director. Trash television aficionado. Kara Schlabaugh is a true original, and a veritable swatch stack of surprising slice-of-life anecdotes. We’re so proud to call her one of our own that we noodged her into sharing five photos from her life — and the stories that go along with them. Buckle up, you’re in for a real journey with this one.

1. The baby

I am the youngest of three sisters and was recruited at a young age to be their minion. They roped me into everything from trying to turn our bedroom into a swimming pool to locking babysitters out of the house.

Side note: This photo was taken in Estes Park at one of those creepy historical photo shops. This was also my first trip to Colorado as a child, so I guess things came full circle.

2. You are what you eat

I love noodles. Udon, spaghetti, rigatoni, ramen (you get the idea). My ideal night is on my couch eating noodles and watching trash tv.

Fun fact: Back at home one of my nicknames is “Noodle” but was based on the fact that I was a lanky, awkward child.

3. My favorite place

Although I love to talk about how wonderful Iowa is, it is actually not my favorite place (Sorry Mom and Dad). I might be biased because it’s where I studied and met my boyfriend, Erjon, but I think Florence is one of the best cities in the world. Also there is a lot of pasta there, so that helps too.

4. Number one fan

Growing up I had a serious Spongebob obsession. I was president of a fan club that only allowed members in that owned at least 10 Spongebob related clothing items. Only two people in my 3rd grade class made the cut.

5. Side gigs

Like many people in the creative field, I have had a lot of side gigs. My dad owns a woodworking business so I grew up making lots of things and doing art shows through college. Now, my main side hustle outside of work is painting, when I get the chance.

Editor’s note: There are whispers that Kara will put her talents with a brush to good use memorializing a photoshopped Peter MacKeller image of your choice. In exchange for generous YEI donations, of course.