Since the time of AHS graduation… let me think! In HS I started drawing house plans, from scratch, and would have loved to have been an architect. But habit took me to music, at ISU and Depauw U., then a Music Performance Masters degree at U. of Mich, studying with Alfred Prinz in Vienna(Vienna Philharmonica) and David Shifrin, a clarinetist with the most liquid glass tone of anyone (minor in piano). I was on a musical high. I had a dream of creating a chamber group that made statements on society, encouraging good directions, things like that. I didn’t go the route of being an orchestral and chamber musician however, as Prof. Shifrin had groomed me for. It seemed too tough of a life style – our society doesn’t reward artists like they do certain other professions. Well, it turned out that the route I took – software development - wasn’t easy either! I hadn’t gone to school in it, so worked hard to get to where I could be an expert. I had many good years, working for companies in Boston, sometimes working from home. Also did a stint at a mobile phone software startup in Harvard Sq , Cambridge, MA. I have an 8-ft grand piano in my home and play for relaxation now.

In the midst of all of the work, living in Rhode Island on the coast, I sailed a lot – Hobie Cats - wet and wild sailing, a 27 ft yacht, and windsurfed. I tried to fit in altruistic activities when I could, was a Big Sister, work now on town committees. Also, I changed in some ways – I’m more of a country girl than when I lived in Iowa, also now like things that are down-home, the good ol’ days, not new fangled ways, with my head in the clouds, not a city girl or an East Coast girl even though I live there – I learned!

But the most important part of life is people. I am very happily married, this time! I have 22 nieces and nephews, and two amazing cats, that I am very close to. And yes, I have friends in my town, but I think it’s great when people keep in touch with those friends they grew up with, so wonderful and difficult are those experiences shared with them - I respect all of you that I knew in HS, knowing as time went by that you are such good people! Got back in touch with many, many dear friends via FB and Skype (& in person visits!). Want you to know that you are all important to me and I think of the AHS days and earlier years in Ames with very, very fond memories.