I’ve been an animal lover my entire life. My mom says “you have a serious soft spot for animals.” Our family dog, Panda, was always glued at my hip. My aunt, who lives in town, has two doggies, Toby and Bo, and I think I go to her house to visit them even more than her! Also, I worked in caregiving and mental health here in Bend, and realized the great measure of my compassion, patience and generosity. I’m a philosopher-poet in my aspiring professional life.