Lifelong resident of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. I got my bachelor's degree in philosophy with a minor in cultural anthropology. I worked for several years as a paralegal in a general practice law firm, where I managed civil litigation cases and insurance claims, drafted contracts, and did land title research. I then went on my own as an independent real estate title examiner, which, over twenty years later, I am still doing. I am also currently pursuing a lawsuit against my mortgage lender and servicer. I have also worked as an associate editor and proofreader for a local newspaper, done some professional graphic design work, and ghost writing for professional correspondence. I also manage family property, including a welding shop, and, although yet an amateur welder, I am developing that skill as well.