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It's hard to imagine that 20 years have passed since those wild, carefree high school days. I have enjoyed the path that I embarked on; it has led me to a point in life that is filled with contentment and peace. Most importantly, I'm at a perfect place to be the best parent to my daughter and a committed wife to my husband of 3 years. I'm 100% present and thankful that my adventures in life returned me safely to this place, a bit more wiser and richer (in spirit, not monetarily.)
Had my experience of working at all three levels of government, walking the halls of the White House under the Clinton Administration and running the rat race in Washington DC, pushing legislation in Jeff City and overseeing projects on a municipal level. Lived on an Air Force base in Denver, CO, with the National Civilian Community Corps, traveling the country conducting community service with 13 other team members. Lived out of a tent in the Grand Tetons, becoming acquainted with the glorious tonic of nature. Challenged my mind, spirit and body backpacking through Asia, worked alongside Mother Theresa and the Dalai Lama in India, climbing the Himalayas to a point that I thought I could go no further. Witnessed so much poverty and horror that I vowed never to say that "I am starving" again. Gained incredible perspective.
Spent time in a North St. Louis inner city school realizing just how challenging youth can be (gaining more respect for those teachers that put up with my antics during my youthful days.) Fought forest fires for the AmeriCorps Emergency Response Team. Operated a mobile unit that served runaway and homeless youth along the streets of St. Louis. Appreciated the urban life living in Soulard. Backpacked every hill, mountain, trail available to me within reach. Diverted from politics and moved to the social sector - realizing that community impact and change were more immediate and "cleaner" than operating the wheels of government.
Traveled as much as I could - jetting off to many foreign countries including the former Yugoslavia following the Bosnian/Serbian war. Still daunted by the effects of war. Inspired by the life of the pioneers and explorers, bought a B-van RV in 2003 and traveled aimlessly across the U.S. and Canada for 4 months with my fiance' and our Boxer, Harley. Visited National Parks in every region, losing ourself to a nomadic life, ridding materialism, living by the rhythm of the sun. It was a calling that still calls on us today - one day we will do it again with our daughter Maya and show her the simpler life.
Currently run a non-profit development company, specializing in resource mobilization and community organizing. Published a book last summer outlining the Framework and tools to strengthen the capacity of non-profits and the social sector. Love what I do and the people I meet - many filled with such passion and vision. At times my sense of idealism is smashed and bruised, but watching the wonderful work of people in the community help restores my faith.
Despite volumes of adventures, life-lessons, a formalized education at both the bachelor and masters level, my greatest teacher thus far in life is a little boy by the name of Brendan. My nephew Brendan was born with a life-threatening genetic disease that affects his DNA repair system. He plummeted into bone marrow failure and received a life-saving stem cell transplant in October 2002. I stood at his bed side and literally witnessed a miracle. His little body is missing radius bone, thumbs and his leg bones reversed from his knee to his ankle. Even though, he has "disabilities" he can still do everything other kids can - it just takes him longer. Still today, at the age of 7, he continues to teach me about having courage and strength in the face of adversity, to seize the moment, and lastly, how precious life really is. Together we helped raise over $500,000 to design and build an accessible playground located in Lake St. Louis. - Zachary's Playground.
My life has not been what I envisioned it to be while I was a spunky, obnoxious, oblivious teenager.. it has been harder that what I ever imagined but every moment, worth it.
