Hi, I’m Curcha Hawkins. I have lived in Big Lake since I was in 8th grade and now my husband, Chase, and I are raising our two kids here. I recently was able to accomplish one of my biggest goals and I have become a published author. I started this endeavor after a dark period of depression and while I battled mental health illness this was a positive outlet for me. It is still something I work through each day but I’m learning how to manage the symptoms – writing is one way I do that. I’m also proud to say my husband owns Perfect Shade Window Tinting in Big Lake. Owning your own business is hard work and he does it well! Thank you for selecting me as a Face of Big Lake! It truly means a lot to me.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I have been with my husband, Chase, for 13 years. We met when we were 19 at the Monticello Perkins! We have 2 kids – Gage – 6- and Veda – 4.
Q: How long have you lived and/or worked in Big Lake?
I’m originally from Coon Rapids and Chase grew up in Becker. I moved to Big Lake while I was in 8th grade.
Q: Tell us about your current, past, or future career.
Currently I am the Store Manager at Maurice’s Clothing Store in Buffalo. I’ve been with Maurice’s for 13 years. I am also a published author. I have had 8 books published. My first book is Powerful You. It was inspired by my battle and obstacles with mental illness. I have battled mental health since I was a teenager. My writing helps me and my journey. I wrote the first book after a period of deep, dark depression and writing was one way I was able to handle it. My ultimate goal in starting these projects was to clear up, or begin to clear up, the perception and taboo topic of mental health illness. My 8 books include, Powerful You – a journal for women, Remarkable You – a journal and activity book for young boys, Magical You – a journal with positive affirmations for young women, 3 additional journals and notebooks, a specialty notebook for teachers, and The Glitter in my Heart – a book with tales about kindness and love for youth. I was incredibly thrilled to get a chance to read The Glitter in My Heart on St. Patrick’s Day to students in their classrooms.
Q: Have you ever had a nickname? What is it and why were you given it?
Yes! It is Crunch Wrap – from Taco Bell. My team at work started calling me this because I love them.
Q: What is your favorite TV Show, Movie, Book? (Please list as many as you’d like!)
I like New Girl, Schitt’s Creek, Gilmore Girls, and all the food shows! For books I enjoy Colleen Hoover books and I also love podcasts. I listen to them everyday on all different topics.
Q: If you could only eat one food/meal and have one beverage for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I would eat Pancho Villa’s Quesa Birria and drink Purple Monster Ultra.
Q: What are some of your favorite hobbies or pastimes?
I love being active with my kids. We go outside for walks, bike rides, visit the parks, and go to the beach. I also enjoy crafts of any kind but specifically writing, painting, and scrapbooking. The kids and I love having dance parties while we clean the house too!
Q: What is one thing on your bucket list?
I want to go to Banff National Park in Canada. It looks absolutely beautiful.
Q: What would you buy/do if you won the lottery?
I would pay off all of our bills and travel for 1 year with my family.
Q: What has been a challenge you have had to overcome? (Life, School, Work, etc.)
One challenge has been balancing being a parent while having a successful career, and knowing how to manage my mental health symptoms. I need to remember to rest.
Q: Who has been a hero in your life?
One mentor is my Maurice’s District Leader – Stacie. She has been nothing but supportive with my mental health, my personal goals, and helping me develop as a leader.
Q: What is something even your family and friends may not know about you?
When I was in Mr. Fiscum’s choir class he would occasionally mention to me that “with great power comes great responsibility.” I’m quite certain this had to do with how “outgoing” I was!
Q: What is your proudest accomplishment?
My proudest accomplishment is having the courage to tell my story.
Q: What are a few of your favorite businesses / restaurants in Big Lake?
Lake Cafe’s broasted chicken is delicious, McPete’s, and Perfect Shade Window Tinting.
Q: What is one of your favorite things about Big Lake?
The small town feel but we have all the necessities here and a lake right here for us!
Q: What advice would you give to people living in Big Lake?
Get involved with your kids and be sure to check in with them.
