I am a mother, a friend, a daughter, a neighbor, an advocate, an author.  I am a teacher, a cook, a housekeeper, a gardener, a Catholic and an American.    I laugh, I cry and I do the best I can do each and everyday. I am far from perfect, but I strive everyday to do something positive not just for me but for those around me.  I believe there is good in everyone, even though I have been challenged by those who present themselves as pure evil.  I wish everyone the best in what they do, but get mad by those who put themselves above everyone and everything at the expense of others. I love my children, my parents, my family and friends with all my heart, because they are the people I get my joy and energy from and who love me no matter what.  I love my country because no matter what everyone’s differences may be, I recognize what a wonderful life I have because of it.  I love my dog, because unconditional love from a 4 pound Yorkie is wonderful.  I believe in God, compassion and happiness and to achieve peace in one’s life,  I believe you must have all three.  I believe in forgiveness of oneself and others because without it, you live in anger.  I believe we each have a purpose to fill and while we may not know what it is, the lessons learned along the way are invaluable.  I believe in traditions old and new, as they keep me connected  to my past and will leave a legacy of me for those in the future.  I believe in love, because without it I don’t think much else matters.