When I was an only child, my parents taught me card games, checkers, chess, and reading at an early age. Mom didn’t work but volunteered at my preschool. She made me familiar with the library. Dad was a veteran who personified order and discipline. One of the earliest things I remember was being told I couldn’t wear my favorite dress everyday. Shortly after that, I was three years old. According to my parents, they asked me if I wanted a brother or sister. They claimed I consented. Of course, I don’t recall that! As my baby sister grew, I learned the art of negotiation. That meant that she got what she wanted while I suffered and built character. In just a few years, I was the oldest of three. My life became one of setting examples, protecting.others, and being responsible. Then one of my aunts, an executive assistant, started handing down her professional wardrobe to me. I fell in love with business attire. By 14, I was the oldest of four. That came with plenty of adult responsibilities and none of the benefits. However, I had my own room--my sanctuary, alternate dimension, creativity studio, and other world. Reading and writing were steady hobbies. Pen, paper, and I still share a close bond that makes my PC jealous. My high school major was business. I wanted to start a business to accompany my growing collection of designer separates for the office. In college, I had the same major. Additionally, I became a third generation military member and a second generation Navy enlistee. And yes, I continued to read, write, and create.