Grew up in Rhode Island not far from the ocean, leaving home at 18 to live in communes and see some of the world, namely Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Colombia and Ecuador. Got married at 21 and had 8 children and held down a variety of jobs until semi-retirerment at 62. A few of my joys, passions and hobbies have been gardening, bonsai, antique refinishing, tantra and NVC/compassionate communication and of course travel.