My view of my page is that it is the piece of me called Stands Her Ground, a name given me by a Montana Grose Vante (not sure I spelled that right) Indian My page is kind of like having an alternate reality where I can go to escape the horror on planet earth right now. I was formerly a peace and justice activist in Portland, Oregon where I organized and built a school for homeless adults and teens and published an alternative newspaper called The Burnside Cadillac. I put it all together as a VISTA and then after four years stayed on for about another five years. During that time I, of course, became 'street smart,' politically savvy, and dealt with my despair and every one else's by drinking too much alone at night.

I'm also a writer, having written for newspapers and a couple of magazines. But, after back-to-back traumatic events beginning with the closing of my homeless project and culminating by my now living with my cousin to recoup financially, I haven't been writing at all. Until now. Somehow knowing a few people will read what I write has brought me back to the joy of my craft.

A miracle brought me to tribes.net. After over half a century I found the baby I had adopted out when I was fifteen and she brought me to this site. Those who know her, know her as Rowan and both of us have written of this miracle so feel free to read what we've shared.