Most people start out as kids before becoming adults. I flip-flopped the order, not becoming a kid until I became a grandmother!
Growing up in NY in a large robust Italian family, I had the responsibility of caring for my four younger siblings, worked in the family business, and was active in my church. By the age of 20 I was married, by 23 had two sons, and by 50 had moved 17 times. My husband pursued multiple theology degrees as we served in several ministry positions in different states. In the D.C. suburbs I worked in the corporate world as an E.A..
Unfortunately, my 30 year marriage ended in divorce, my health began to fail, and my bank account was depleted. I had to rediscover myself and God's purpose for my life.
One day I discovered FaithWriters. Intrigued, I entered the Writing Challenge as a beginner. I knew how to write term papers, proposals, marketing and fundraising materials, but creative writing? This was all new to me.
What I learned was writing is healing. As I slowly shared small parts of my life through my entries I began to heal emotionally, spiritually, and physically. I was embraced by a loving, caring, creative community in a safe environment. I discovered new ways to share the gospel. I discovered words could be fun. I discovered a part of me I didn't know existed but God had planned all along.
Today, I work and teach in my local church in several areas of ministry. My husband and I live with my son, who is a pastor, and his family. I'm a very involved grandmother of three grandsons and finally learning how to be a kid!