I'm living larger every day. 

Thank God, I've woken up at 54 to being in charge.  Here's the short version, first, a geologist in the oil biz; next an environmental lawyer.  Still lawyering, and added a business that I can will to my son or granddaughters, which will ensure my (and their) financial well-being.

How did you get to where you are now?

I was on a path that I couldn't discern at the time.  Studied rocks, then the law.  But through it all, and even before, I was committed to two main issues:  animal protection (including protecting their habitat) and sustaining and sustainable nutrition.

Schooling, including a really goofy mistake by a fifth grade science teacher, my mother's role as Girl Scout troop leader and water safety instructor at Girl Scout camp, influence by my parents and watching their dynamics, and growing up in eastern Kentucky propelled me on this path.

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

Geez.  That's kind of hard to pin down.  I'll have to think and get back to you on that one.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Retired from practicing law full time, living on my grandparents farm and in The Potter House, gardening, mentoring business leaders in destinations that suit my desire for travel (Scotland, Anguilla, etc) and working with my wonderful neighbors on revitabilzing my home town.

Never retreat from your stand, but you don't have to wear it on your sleeve every moment.  Have fun.  Keep showing up and being true to yourself.  People are your allies.  Trust your instincts; they're good.  No one moment, relationship, whatever, is the make-it-or-break-it. 

My mother, my father, Mrs. Ball, Mrs. Buttermore, my sisters, Miss Moore (English teacher in sixth grade)