I am 62 and own a chemical dependency treatment program.  I am in recovery and have been a chemical dependency counselor for the past 24 years. I got divorcedtwo years ago,moved into a new home in a differen city in northern Minnesota and have 2 grown children, two granddaughters, ages 3 and 5.   I also have a dog named Beau who is especially dear to me.  I love reading, crocheting, time with my granddaughter and my dog, going out to dinner and a movie, dancing and long walks in the woods in the fall. 

I have not dated or pursued a relationship since my divorce because I wanted to learn how to be fully independent and enjoy my freedom before I got involved again.  And how I value that freedom now!  The most important lesson I've learned is that I don't need a man to make me whole and it is a lesson I try to teach others.  Being alone is nothing to fear and has only made me emotionally stronger.

How did you get to where you are now?

With lots of hard work, grit and determination. 

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

I am so much stronger now than I was then and much happier with the person I've become.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Not sure exactly but hopefully I will have done some traveling by then and seen some of this big, wonderful world!

The mistakes I made when younger are coming home to roost, but yet I would not change anything, rather just have learned how to do things differently.

If I had known life was going to be so hard, I would have put on my combat boots and lipstick back then so I could have been better prepared for all the twists and turns and trials and tribulations that have been thrown my way.  Life can be like a war and I have won many battles but there are always more to be fought.

My grandmother has been gone for many years now but she is the woman I respect and admire the most.  She was a wonderful cook and always seemed to be comfortable just being herself.   That is a valuable lesson and I have learned over the years that this is the best way to live life.  She also loved all her grandchildren dearly and let us know it!  I miss her a lot.