After graduating from Regina H.S., I attended St. Mary's University in Winona and then graduated from St. Ben's up near St. Cloud. With degrees in Music History and English/Journalism, I had planned to pursue a career as a Music Critic, but quickly realized doing so was destroying my passion for music! Instead, my 35-year career centered on helping nonprofits to more effectively help other people. As the founder of Strategic Solutions for Nonprofits, I worked with performing arts organizations, credit unions, and charitable organizations across the United States in organizational development areas. I married my college sweetheart and had two children, Matt (40) and Corinne (37). My "grandkids" are really Grand-Kitties at this time. Our lives and careers moved us to several different states, but ultimately back home to MN. In 2002, I purchased a geodesic dome home on 5 rural acres, and spent 9 fabulous years renovating it! Recently, I retired from my business and am loving an active lifestyle in White Bear Lake, MN that includes enjoying the scenic beauty and recreation of the St.Croix Valley, dancing to as much live music as I can, and exploring different cultures and customs by traveling throughout the world. La vida es buena !