Give us the back story- when, where, and how did you two meet?

MR:  We met about six years ago at a Chicago Dental Society dinner.  We sat across the table from each other and I couldn’t help but notice that Kathleen was eyeing me all night!  We got to talking, exchanged emails and, as they say, the rest is history.

KCJ: The time had come to find an additional dentist for my practice.  I searched for years to find a dentist that had similar philosophies on the quality of care we strive to provide at Park Avenue Dental Professionals.  Attending our North Suburban dental society meetings was where Meggan and I met.  There was a definite personal and professional connection, and yes the rest is history!

MR: We stayed in touch over the years and I joined Kathleen in practice after having my first son in the Fall of 2016

Tell us about Park Avenue Dental Professionals:

KCJ: In 1991 I began my private practice in Vernon Hills.  With our growing family and looking to settle into a community, I moved my practice to Libertyville.  I was very fortunate to find an ideal, homey location on Park Avenue not far from downtown Libertyville and the high school.  Where we stand today is where I built my new office, Park Avenue Dental Professionals.

MR:  After working as an associate at the practice for a few years, I purchased Park Avenue Dental from Kathleen last summer. It has been a whirlwind since! I learn something new every day about owning and operating a small business, all while navigating my home life with two small children. I love the challenge and sense of gratification I feel at the end of each day.  I can’t wait to see how we progress Park Avenue Dental Professionals in years to come.

Do you have children? Grandkids?

Photo Credit: Stefanie Cinadr

MR: I have two boys. Charlie is two and a half and Bobby is my newbie… he’s almost five months old.

KCJ: My husband Gregg and I have three adult daughters, Kayla, Mackenzie, and Natalie; two sons-in-law, Steve and Jonny; and a new granddaughter, Ceci who is five months old.

Our daughters all graduated from St. Joseph Grade School and Libertyville High School and were very active in GLSA programs, community and school activities.

What are your favorite things to do in the area? With and without your kids?

Photo Credit: Stefanie Cinadr

MR: My husband, Dave and I love to be outside and utilize the local forest preserves for walks and hikes whenever possible.  We love taking Charlie to the local parks and library. We can’t wait for Bobby to join us this summer! As far as date night, our go-to’s include Half Day Brewery, Starfish Sushi, Market House on the Square, and anything on Milwaukee in downtown Libertyville.

KCJ: Raising our family in Libertyville and growing up in the Chicago suburbs, we enjoy our local bike and walking trails, Independence Grove, golf, shopping, restaurants, adjacent communities and friendships we have formed over the last 30 plus years.

Dr. Rutledge- what have you learned thus far being a working mom?

Dr. Jaroch, what advice can you give Dr. Rutledge or other young working mothers?

MR: I have learned to ask for help and accept it when offered.  This was not something that came easily for me as I was used to taking the reins and accomplishing things on my own.  I have learned that the old saying is absolutely true… it really does take a village!  The co-leader of my village is definitely my husband, Dave.  We are true partners in anything home and kids.  The other cornerstones of my village, all whom I could not function without, include my parents, mother-in-law, siblings (I have five), friends, staff, and the boys’ teachers.

KCJ:  Having worked more than a full time schedule for many years, I believe it’s all about priorities and balance.  Quality time is so much more important than quantity.  Trying to “do it all” as a mom, wife, dentist, volunteer, and employer was a challenge, but learning to prioritize was key.  I can still say without a doubt, “I learn something new everyday.”

What’s next for you?

MR: Baby #3?!  Just kidding!  At least not yet anyway… Right now I am focusing on the present and what season we are currently in.  I am trying to enjoy where we are and at the same time set realistic goals for future successes.  Each day is uniquely different in the world of dentistry and motherhood and right now, I’m pretty okay with that!

KCJ:  Enjoying time relaxing with family, and grand baby(ies), (we have only one as of now).  Also focusing on good health, golf, reading and studies, travel, and continuing my dental career part-time with Meggan.