Here I am, in my tarnished glory!

I’m 46 and a native Oregonian. I’m in love with the PNW (Pacific Northwest), from the emerald green forests to the wild coast, the mountains to the dry plains of the east. My spirituality  and identity are rooted in this place.   

I’m also a survivor of child abuse, instability, poverty, and the deaths of both of my parents by the time I was 30. I’ve lived overseas twice (France and Turkey) and it fundamentally changed my worldview. I see how very similar we all are in our needs and our suffering, and I want to be someone who bridges our differences with empathy and compassion. I don’t have children or other family (one brother who barely talks to me).  

I work to empower and uplift girls and women for my job, it’s also my spiritual calling. I am inspired and profoundly moved by the resilience and strength of girls, many of whom have already experienced sexism, violence, and other harm based on their gender. Being part of their lives and their growth is truly a gift.   

I create mixed media and I love to be surrounded by creative people.   

I’m often lonely and trying to find a way to connect more. I’m also pretty determined and opinionated and don’t easily give in to despair, even in the face of all we’re up against. I believe in hope. I believe in solidarity and sisterhood. And I definitely believe that it is women who will change the world.