: About Me

My experience with Helium is one of learning and growing as a novice writer. There are so many writers from whom one can learn, it feeds the inner novelist that's branching out with varying degrees of experience and tons of humility.

The years that I've spent filling my journals have allowed me to document moments from my life's journey that has brought me thus far. Pain and sorrow have only been but a snippet of this life I've lived. Joy and laughter filled in for me when I needed that extra nudge to move forward.

As for the moments that have yet to come, I anticipate the birth of grandchildren and the joy of seeing my children become parents, only then will my life have come full circle. So, until that moment comes, I enjoy writing about the things I've learned in my 50 plus years.

I care for my mother who was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease. I'm reading everything I can about the disease and the more I read the less I'm informed. As a caregiver I'm learning that there are limitations to what we can do versus what we'd rather do.

Patience and humility are tested daily and I rise and fall with as much grace and stamina as I can muster, I've learned that the human condition of just living as God intended is the basis of what life is all about. Her journey is mine and we will travel it together...I couldn't imagine anything less than the most I have to give.

Writers are curious and sometimes eccentric people. We live by our own code of rules. Some people get us right away and others are puzzled by what makes us tick. For those that understand..kudos.

Helium has a platform of writers that continue to encourage us in our chosen craft. Pehaps others can learn from me, as I've learned from them. Learning is a process that never ends, and no matter how good one may think they are, there is always room for improvement.

I've been away from my writing and I've discoverd how much I miss what I've loved most all my life. Perhaps there is still a place for me here afterall?

I've recently been diagnosed with breast cancer as of April 16, 2011. Part of dealing with this disease is being willing to speak about it and to speak the actual words..."I have breast cancer!" So far, I've come to terms with those simple four words, but have yet to embrace anything else further.

My journey is fresh and new, but I believe in a healing God, and I believe my strength will come from my faith and love of family and friends. We are not alone though at times it feels that way.

Update:January 13, 2012 (Friday)

I'm approaching the final 2 remaining laps (treatments) of radiation for Triple Negative Breast Cancer. My final treatment is January 17, 2012. This has been at times an arduous journey. There has been allotted amounts of time I've lost and will never regain. I've questioned many things, doubted others and finally had to stare the truth...face to face.

After that, I've accepted certain limitations (for now), and I've learned to appreciate the very small things in life, only to discover that they are truly the "BIG" things that matter. I'm excited about my future, and have hope immeasurable. As is life itself...It's one day at a time. Nothing more. Nothing less. 

My mother is at mid-stage in terms of her Alzheimer's. Witnessing the decline is difficult. Our roles in life have completely reversed. There are days I want to just run away, but I know in my heart that's just the frustration of being a caregiver and watching her slip away more and more each day.

As I face uncertainties as we all do, I'm reminded that life is precious no matter the circumstances. Everything that happens is for a reason, and we are the one to learn the lesson and perhaps share our wisdom when called upon. 

Stop in and say hello. I love to hear from all writers no matter your genre, expertise, or ideas. That's what brings us all together...not what separates us! 

"Integrity is telling myself the truth. And honesty is telling the truth to other people."

"Wisdom is knowing the difference!"

My passion is ...

My family

I know too much about ...

Anger and domestic violence

My parents always told me ...

I was raised by a single mother that told me I could be whatever I wanted to be as long as I was willing to work hard..

My childhood ambition ...

Eliminate fear..All children should feel safe in their own home. Anything less is deplorable...

My favorite memory ...

My wedding day,and the birth of my 2 boys Jesse and Joshua

Why I write ...

Writing satisfies a need and fulfills my greatest desire!

What I am reading/watching/listening to ...

I'm reading biographies...currently enjoying Hemmingway, The Final Years

My first job ...

was insignificant...My best role has been as a mother to 2 wonderful boys I'm so proud of!

My best moment ...

Everyday is a blessing and moments are fleeting instances that only remain permanent in our hearts and memories...

My inspiration ...

My sister Cindy...her advise is to never settle for mediocre

Society & Lifestyle > Feminism & Women's Rights What makes a woman feel empowered?

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Life is either a daring adventure or nothing. To keep our faces toward change  and behave like free spirits in the presence of fate  is strength undefeatable. -Helen Keller When a woman is empowered, she has strength immeasurable, courage in an incorrigible world, and stamina and wisdom that defies all reason. Women wear numerous hats. From mothers, to professional executives and anywhere in between, she assumes whatever necessary role. Women are teachers and leaders, lovers and mothers and yes... a force to be reckoned with. Confidence There’s a difference between a woman ...

More..

Writing:

Rating:

• Marketplace Approved Writer
• Channel Manager Communication Skills
• Helium Charter Member