How do you do a bio in a nutshell.  So difficult.  I intend one day to write a book there are so many things to talk about.  I started out with very little chances of anything, life was a struggle, but I treasured every wonderful thing that happened, I was humble, I learned from everyone, and finally I blossomed, and became strong and independent within myself, raised my children totally on my home, fostered many children, worked for great causes, and continued to be humble; eventually I did connect with an awesome partner and together we live an awesome life, for we both know the other side, and so we focus on all that is good.  I love the ocean, I sail, I am learning to scuba dive, I am an avid ocean fisherwoman and am known for kissing the fish before I return them to the ocean, and get ribbed constantly about someone catching a fish with beautiful pink lipstick on it.  I love people, I love men, I love women, I love children, I love all animals, there isn't anything I don't love.  Life is the best present, and I get to unwrap it every morning.  I get to learn all the things I didn't learn before, my mind is open to learn everything possible.  I have travelled the world extensively, I have had some amazing careers from working for a great Native Leader for many many years, to being a CEO of a National Magazine, but truly what I love the most is just being me, yes I still work, but I love what I do, as I love people, and people are much of what is involved in my daily work.  There is nothing I will not try, I am turning 60 and feel 30 and feel daily I am getting younger instead of older.  What more can I say, but hurray. 

How did you get to where you are now?

That was one long difficult and painful journey, and am I ever glad I am here now.  Acceptance, structure, and endurance were my greatest allies.  However, I am here now, in peace and in great happiness.

How do you see yourself differently now than you did 10 years ago?

Wiser, happier, healthier, content, satisfied, more varied interests, free; and leaving the student behind.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In ten years I see myself enjoying life as much as I enjoy it today, loving our planet as much, gaining more wisdom, and continuing on this journey with great enthusiasm.

Hello ddivc:  I certainly wished you would have had a chance, I certainly wished you would have not had the pain that was put on you, I would pray your journey would have been easier, but without that journey you had to go through you would not be the strong, resilient, courageous, wise woman you have grown into.  You were a quick student, you learned fast, only the material always came too slow, but when it came you gobbled it up, and retained it.  You did a good job with what you had, thank you for holding strong, and being open to learning.

My strongest role models were my grandmother and my aunt when I was young and into my teens, later in life my role model was a great Native Leader, Mother Tereasa, Martin Luther King, Ghandi, all of the greats, had something to teach me.  Today, I am my own role model.  I set the standard.