Writing poetry is my way of understanding myself and the world around me.

 On the homefront I share my life with my husband and two grown sons, my youngest son currently serving in the U.S. Marine Corps.  I have lived the majority of my life in California's Bay Area, but also spent some ten years in the city of angels, Los Angeles. While in Los Angeles/Hollywood I was totally engaged in theatre from all angles ... acting ... to construction ... to public relations. While living and pursuing in L.A./Hollywood I wrote many poems that reflect the flip side of the two cities. All that glitters is definitely not gold in the limelight. I left the pursuit of the spotlight for love and raising a family ... and with that chapter soon to be closed ... well I'm off and running again.

As to my family background growing up, it was very close knit, and remains so today. I'm Italian, Portuguese, Irish, Scottish and Welsh ... a bit of a mutt! The strongest influence, however, has been from my mother's background, which is full-blooded Sicilian. Growing up I can still remember the language of the old folks ... the men swearing in Italian and playing cards, and the women with aprons 'round about the kitchen, and all the little bambinos underfoot. My family will ever keep me busy in one way or another I assume ... they are the foundation of my life.

I am also lucky to have a job I enjoy going to each day. I have worked in Special Education for the past twenty-one years as a ParaEducator. I have taught all levels from kindergarten to twelfth. For the last 13 years I have had the pleasure to work with severely-handicapped teens at a local high school. It is a very busy day, but one with many rewards and the students are really gems in disguise. Some of my poems have been inspired by my students ... their struggles always touch my heart and their achievements and successes fill me with pride.

Veterans Day - Honoring and Remembering Our Veterans

 www.squidoo.com/honoring-our-american-veterans

Recently (November 2011) I created a lens on Squidoo in honor of my husband, my dad, my father-in-law and all Veterans. It also honors my son, a U.S. Marine and all men and women currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.  I hope that it is helpful in reminding us all of the sacrifices and commitment made by those who have served and continue to serve in the military.

Old Glory Parade 

Old Glory Parade is my personal photo blog dedicated to the men and women currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. I will gladly accept photos to be posted in my Old Glory blog. You may email/message me with photo link. Credit always given to the photographer.