I am content and happy with our life presently; indeed the entire 54 years together. 

 My husband Jim and I have grown … intellectually, in our relationships within our family of seven and within our friendships, in following the wonders of astronomy, music, art, literature (non-fiction, fiction and poetry), in exploring the natural world, in learning of cultures other than Western, in relationships with neighbors and our community, in our spiritual life, and in awareness of politics, great inequities, and injustices. 

We have benefited from our talent, life-experience, and practical know-how. The seven of us in our family love each other deeply and enrich each other’s life.

I have received recognition in both of my careers: Recognized Young Dietitian of WI in 1974, and county, state and national awards from the NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness in 1994, 1998, 2012, and 2014.

I have had many physician mentors: Donald, Asja and Sara. Joyce Burland, PhD, and Bob Beilmen, MD were personal mentors. I became lifelong friends with Professors Diane, Dorothy, and Judith. This year, as in every year, Diane and Judith and I correspond via cards, letters and gifts. We are present in each other’s life.

My relationship with Dorothy began in 1969, as her undergraduate student, then her colleague, then a friend. Dorothy hosted a baby shower for me in her home when I was pregnant with our son. We ate brown bag lunches on Observatory Hill, UW – Madison campus. Dorothy invited my young daughter, son and I to her cabin on Lake Wisconsin. She attended my daughters graduation party and read the same books as I to learn what I was interested in and how I thought. As she aged I visited with her when she lived in a retirement community and a nursing home. We worshiped together. When Dorothy died, I offered prayers of gratitude for our rich relationship.

I first learned of Dorothy’s wealthy background during her funeral: Her mother was an opera singer, her father a distinguished physician; she was raised in Shorewood, a wealthy suburb in the Milwaukee area. She lived, dressed, and spent modestly. A great teacher and researcher.

Dorothy and the other men and women mentored me for my abilities and performance, my character and work ethic. I always did my best; frequently being innovative. 

I never intended to win friends and influence people, nor adopt the Carnegie approach to life, or to be dominant socially, or to earn as much money as I could.

I embraced a life of compassion, caring and reciprocity.

Be joyful with me.

Thank you kindly.