I'm nearly 60 and married for 30 years to the same man who is the father of our two daughters (in their 20's). Grew up in a small Midwestern town, Attended college at Big State University, drifted through my 20's until I found out what I liked and supported myself (!) Met my husband at work when I was 29, married at 31 and we've built a pretty good marriage - Very Lucky. Love to read good literature and cook dinner with an able helper while listening to "All Things Considered". I'm a "fixer" and often find myself up to my eyeballs in projects with friends and family or "filling in" someplace just to help out.

How did you get to where you are now?

Geographically?  My husband moved us to Washington DC during the 90's when he accepted an appointment in the Clinton administration. Spiritually? I am a "recovering Catholic" and active in our PCUSA congregation. Personally? I'm the eldest daughter of 6 children, was sexually molested at age 7 until I was a teenager by an elder brother. Many years later, when I gathered the courage and "outed" him, the other 4 sibs and mother asked why I had to tell anyone, saying they felt for my brother. That sort of experience forces a person to take serious stock of what's truly valuable in life - I think I chose well. My family has benefited from my becoming the woman who will not tolerate those who manipulate or abuse others - and I don't suffer fools; gladly or otherwise!

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

I'm more circumspect and less likely to care if people like me or not.  I certainly don't apologize for everything like I used to do!

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

That's hard to say - who knows? I hope it's someplace I landed as the result of an interesting opportunity!

You ARE smart and clever! I just love you to bits, honey, and if you just do what's important to be done today, every day, things will turn out just fine. I promise. 

Strong women who are true to themselves and kind to others.