My search for justice lead me into my present career. Though I must admit, it can be very trying, and very unfair at times, I still think it was perfect for me. I am a Social Worker. I presently work in the Child Abuse field, in a program that combines a strong emphasis on child safety with the knowledge that for by far most children, the best home for them is their own. My program strives to make the children's home safe again, and strong and stable.

My father, Ron, just turned 55. He taught me the meaning and value of work and responsibility. He also bought me my first Star Trek novel, and started me on the road to a lifetime's passion for Science Fiction and Fantasy. I bet Dad doesn't even know he had a hand in my loves!

My mother is Sue, she's 54. She married Dad when she was just 19. At 34 I can't imagine life as a married person yet, and she was married when she was still a girl! In most ways, my mother accepts me as I am. She'll laugh and tell people I'm her Alien child...or that I'm "half-pagan". Though she doesn't always understand me, she really does try to accept me. (Though she does have a lot of trouble with my liberal politics!)

My sister is Kellie. She was born when I was three, and I think we spent the next 25 years in competition with each other! But it's amazing how much I've learned about her since I stopped competing with her. Kellie is one of the most giving people I know. She'd do anything for her family or friends, no matter what it costs her.

The older of my younger brothers is Ronnie. Ronnie will turn 30 this year. He's the world's biggest COWBOYS fan, and nagged me for not mentioning them on this page! Ronnie has loved the 'Boys since he was about 7, and has never wavered in his support...how's that for loyalty. Ronnie gave me a new sister when he married Jackie several years ago. Their anniversary is Sept 9! Happy Anniversary Ron and Jacke! Together, they gave me the lights of my eyes...my three year old, wonderful, beautiful, smart niece Kayleen, and five month old, handsome, charming, happy nephew Christopher!

My youngest brother is Matthew. He's just 22, and still a "baby" in my eyes. I was 11 when he was born, and I still remember telling him stories, singing him songs, and rocking him to sleep. Matt is the apple of my eyes, my "Chewchie". He got engaged this year, to the sweetest young lady, Lindsey. The rest of us can't wait for Lins to become an 'official' member of our family, in our hearts, she already is!

I can't talk about family without mentioning two more people. Lee and Pat. My closest, best friends. They both know how much they mean to me, and how much they keep me centered...sane...and happy. Thanks ladies! I love you both!