I simply devour books.  I never tire of re-reading the ones I already have, and I make frequent trips to the library in an effort to curb my book-buying habits. The written word has been a constant companion, sparking my imagination when I was still in elementary school (and working my way through authors such as Victor Hugo) and continuing through the present.  One of the most welcome surprises upon graduating college, was the realization that I would now have more time to devote to books.

Some of my favorite authors are: Anne Sexton, Pablo Neruda, Edith Pargeter, Anais Ninn, David Sedaris, Barbara Kingsolver, and Christopher Moore (the list could go on and on).

When delving into non-fiction, I appreciate books on the following topics:  women's rights, sexuality, the environment and/or conservation , and sociology.  Three Cups of Tea, which chronicles a mountain climber's efforts to use education to combat terrorism, is well worth reading.  I have recently read The World Without Us (Alan Weisman) and Sex at Dawn: The Prehistoric Origins of Modern Sexuality (Christopher Ryan and Cacilda Jetha).  

Where I go
I crave the new experiences travel brings me.  The sight of an unfamiliar horizon fills me with anticipation.  

I consider myself fortunate that my travels have taken me around the world.  I have hiked in the Alps and been on safari in Kenya, wandered along the hallways of the Louvre, the steps of the Colliseum, the ruins of Athens.  I have fond memories of savoring truffles while dining at the Eiffel Tower and of enjoying a cold beer in the pubs of Glasgow.  While it is great to see the museums and tourist attractions a city has to offer, I am just as interested in talking with the locals and searching for that out-of-the-way neighborhood restaurant.  I always have a current passport on hand and would love to join you on an adventure around the world.

How I Give Back
Starting at an early age, I have been encouraged to give back to others who do not have the same opportunities and resources as I did.  I have been very fortunate to have been involved with several great organizations since moving to the Northwest.  I have volunteered with children, mentally disabled adults, women's organizations, animal shelters, and other non-profits.