Adversity should have been my middle name. I have re-written my life… it was not meant to turn out at all the way it has.

When I was an infant my mentally ill mother fractured my spine, her intent to kill me failed. For years I suffered through her brutality, only to be punished and hated by her. She allowed me to be molested repeatedly, and eventually raped, all by the time I was 13. At the age of 15, she sold me off to a much older man, who used and abused me, and would not allow me to finish school.

I struggled to gain my independence and to be my own person. I vowed to be more than an insignificant, abused, uneducated and mistreated young woman. I set my goals to attain and become the very best in everything I did… my focus and my path.

As I met every new challenge and every heartache head on, I became resilient, strong, and determined not to let others knock me down, once again. My faith in God, and my absolute choice was never to become vengeful or retaliate against those who tried to knock me down, or keep me down. I made the best of every bad situation, and against the odds, as my world fell countless times… I fought to maintain my balance with a good spirit.

Surrounded by alcoholics, sociopaths, abusive, cruel and heartless people, I decided early on… that I would never let myself become them. I made mistakes in judgement, never knowing who to trust, and trusting evil people who were more than willing to punish me, and let me down.

I have traveled a long road, both literally and figuratively. I started out in extreme poverty in rural Louisiana… and I have lived in Alaska… and many states in between. I have traveled the Alaskan Canadian Highway many times, and also the amazing Inland Passage.

I have been grateful to have owned and operated many businesses… it is not important the number. I have been blessed by the opportunity to buy and sell many, many properties. I have been able to work for and achieve a very good education.

I am humbled by all I have been able to accomplish, and for all I have learned. I am forever grateful, and thankful beyond words.

For every mistake I have made, for every road I have traveled, for everything I have learned, for everything I have been given, and for everyone I have been able to help in this lifetime, I am fortunate to have been given the opportunity, and the chance to find my true self.

My belief is that no matter the odds, no matter what life throws at you, always know you can be much more than you ever thought possible. Live your best, love your best, everyday. Strive to reach your goals, and do not let anyone deter you. Believe in yourself, never doubt your power. Trust in God, trust in you… and become your best you.