How could they be serious? I don't have a degree, I'm not a professional anything. What could I have to offer?
Well, I do have experience. Lots of it.
I am a Navy wife. I have survived four six-month cruises, several shorter ones, and my husband's participation in two combat zones. I've moved nine times in eighteen years of marriage. This life has taught me independence, organization, the value of a budget, and not to take my husband for granted. Living in various sizes and styles of apartments and houses motivated me to learn skills to transform each of the dwellings into our home. I've painted, wallpapered, laid vinyl flooring, landscaped, sewn window treatments, pillows, and bedding, built a workbench, reupholstered chairs, refinished furniture . . . well, you get the idea.
I am also the mother of six. Through my children, I have learned about colic, croup, the terrible twos, educational opportunities, time management, patience, ADHD, computers, financial aid, braces, inexpensive and entertaining activities, and so much more.
As the household manager I pay the bills, balance the checkbook, fill out the tax forms, coordinate the family schedule, oversee the chore distribution, track household maintainence, maintain the family filing system, and encourage regular family meetings to resolve conflicts and promote family harmony.
For myself, I write, run, read, and delight in my home. I enjoy an eclectic variety of activities, too numerous to list, and challenge myself to try new ones. My style--of interior decorating, clothing, and life in general--is primarily casual. I have a weakness for babies, kitties, coffee, anything Irish, Amish, or Native American. Although I was raised Catholic, I consider myself more Universally spiritual, blending Christian, Celtic, Native American, and New Age elements.
Some additional, out-of-the-ordinary highlights for me have been a three-week tour of Ireland, cruising around the Southwest in an RV, and helping a dear friend give birth.
So maybe I don't have a piece of paper that says I've mastered a particular field, but I have the stretch marks, gray hairs, wrinkles, and therapist bills to prove I'm enrolled in the Ph.D. program of Life.
It will be hard to fill Shellie's shoes. I won't pretend to be an authority. Instead, I will offer ideas, make suggestions, and share personal stories. I will present the same range of subjects, but won't try to imitate Shellie's voice. While the column may take on a different tone, I hope the content will feel familiar and that you'll decide to keep visiting. Just like Shellie, I welcome your comments and ideas.
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