I’m from eastern Virginia originally. I’ve lived with my Scottish husband, Leslie, in Bedford, Virginia since 1974. I received my BA and MLS (Master’s in Library Science) from Florida State University. In 1968-69 as a 19 year old student on World Campus Afloat I sailed around the world visiting 35 countries. That year abroad forever informed and influenced my life. For 15 years I was a professional librarian in Virginia and West Germany.
In 1990 my husband and I started our business, Shiny Stuff (selling books, antiques, and jewelry). I’ve been involved in local and global community service organizations for decades. In 2007 I went to Rwanda with genocide survivor/author, Immaculee Illibagiza and was forever changed. I have been continuously involved in sustainable development in Rwanda since that trip (formerly as a nonprofit and now privately). I supported many endeavors (livestock distribution, women’s enterprise, education, clean water initiatives, supporting services for special needs children and orphans, etc.)
My focus shifted over 7 years ago when I encountered Peter Jensen & Terra Firma Permagardening through a Rwandan partner. I realized Permagarden training is undoubtedly the most effective and cost effective way to promote self sufficiency, improve long term food security, and mitigate climate change. Peter Jensen’s Permagarden teachings were taught to several partners in Rwanda, Kenya, and Uganda who have provided 200+ African communities Permagardens training. When David Albert invited me to join TPF I was thrilled to help expand this vital and necessary work.