Becoming GB Real...

For 50+ years I hated for my photo to be taken fully clothed. In fact, I didn't even like to look in a mirror, so it's a big statement that I can now post a photo of myself in a swimsuit for anyone in the world to see. It isn't because I think I look great, it's because it is brave to do so. It's because I can now see a physically strong and vital woman who has lived a pain filled life and yet, she is still standing...even on a paddleboard (most of the time). It took a lot of hard work to get to this point, but I vulnerably share my story with the hope that even one person may benefit from something I have learned the hard way. I believe we are all here to help one another, if only we will be brave and be real.

My Story

My story isn't a how-to for anything other than perhaps attempting to be a consistently loving and caring human being. Otherwise, it's simply the story of how a regular person went through a lifetime hating herself, listening to the mean voices in her head, living scared of most everything and making lots of mistakes not understanding she was the one limiting the amount of joy in her life. And then the process of how she found her way out of darkness with the loving support of another very special Ginger, loving family and friends, and a variety of expert resources.

I have always felt like I was a writer and it has been a tool I have utilized in my career as a health care executive. It wasn't until recent years, though, that the idea of writing a book was planted in my mind by my self-compassion coach.

I earned a bachelor's degree in journalism and mass communication from Kansas State University and a master’s degree in health services management from Webster University. I am an avid sports fan, and while I don't have any particular athletic talent, I do enjoy running and hiking. I receive immense joy from sharing my words with people in cards, messages or gifts to help brighten their days. Being near any body of water is my happy place along with anywhere in Arizona I can see that bright blue sky. Spending time with family, friends and nowadays pretty much anyone who is with me are my favorite moments.

My greatest source of pride and joy is my adult daughter who is a smart, compassionate and quick-witted nurse at a large community hospital. I am also very proud to have a son-in-law who serves the local community as a police detective and served his country for five years as a member of the Army National Guard. And for someone who never had pets, I've also been very surprised by how much I love my role as Gigi to Cooper and Maverick.