What Makes Me – “ME”!
I am a 66 year old, Native from Phoenix, Arizona who is a Mom, Nana, Wife and Sister. I have three adult children and six grandchildren, ranging in ages from 21 to three. They are all very kind, talented kids, each with different gifts. I am blessed to have all of our grandchildren living in the Phoenix area. I am the youngest of three sisters and I’m sure they would tell you at the most opportune times, I opt to remind them both of that important fact. {Especially as we get older!}
I am inspired by a passion for music I’ve had since my early teen years. Through a connection I had with friends of a friend, I was introduced to four-part Southern Gospel Harmony that stole my heart (and still can lift my spirits or move to me to tears today). I am also inspired by those who dream big dreams and work through each necessary and important step to reach those dreams. However, I believe I am the most inspired by those who live with an eternal perspective and use every drop of talent God gave them to reach others for Him.
If you were to meet any of my immediate family, they would likely tell you that I am fairly reserved and not too funny. Every once in a while I will come up with a pretty good one-liner that tends to get lost in the shock that it came from me. Our family does tend to laugh A LOT when we are together and we have often described ourselves as kin to the (loud) family depicted in the movie “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” (now you get the idea)!
Our modest home is located on the northwest side of metro Phoenix. We’ve lived here for four years. We downsized to an adult community setting and leaving my previous home of 20 years still tugs at my heart strings a bit. At that home we spent many hours on our community lake, trolling around the five coves. One of my very favorite things to do is grab a great glass of Chardonnay and relax on the water. We do that now on Lake Shishebogama, in Minocqua, Wisconsin, where last summer we purchased a tiny cabin, with a million dollar view.
I believe my friends would tell you that I am one of the most objective people they know and can find the balance in most situations. Throughout my career, I’ve had a knack for problem solving and finding resolution. They will also tell you I’ve had an unwavering, life-long belief in Christianity, regardless of what religion or church I affiliated with. There will always be comfort, peace and deep emotion for me in any place where I can feel the presence of our God and Holy Spirit.
Most People Don’t Know This… But-
I’m an introvert launched into an extroverts world. In my career I’ve mastered the art of teaching in front of a classroom, performing Christian music in a group, duets and all alone. I’ve done public speaking for intimate groups and as a keynote for nearly 1000 people. Luckily, I translated performing in to a way to “act as if” I was the star extrovert when the time came, and I believe it has served me well. It has, without a doubt, confused both family and friends who see a paradox life unfold before their eyes.
Why This Blog?
Quite a few times in my life, and actually, more times over the past few years, people have told me that I should write. No one, as I recall, said what I should write. I’ve experienced the same deep lows and high highs that most of us have. Some that are more unique, yet some that many of you can relate to. For now, though, this blog is about taking the vast amount of ideas and thoughts I’ve been carrying with me for many years (and much more so, since I stopped working), and putting them “on paper”. My hope is that something I post would stir something in you. Maybe just a simple smile. Maybe you’ll ponder… thinking I never thought about it just that way. You just might comment, and be an important catalyst to a new way of thinking – or believing. Or, perhaps something will spawn you to act differently, in a more positive, meaningful and eternally thoughtful way.