What do you want people to know about you?
I am an artist at heart. I have owned a crafts gallery, sold work to the American Folk Art Museum, finished a degree in psychology, counseled at a crisis center, adopted two sons from Moscow, developed a parent education course for families adopting post-institutional children, co-founded Children in Common (a relief organization that provides supplies and skills training for children remaining in orphanage care), home schooled my two sons who are now in college, recently became a Peace Minister with the Beloved Community. I write and I knit... a lot! ... While I have several novels in progress, I am currently concentrating on a story of love, fear, healing, and trust with lots of sex and a couple of nuns. I love to travel. I go to Russia to administer CIC relief programs, to Seattle for in-law visits and occasionally to Europe. I also knit. A lot. The size of my collection of knitting books and patterns and my stash of wool is quite embarrassing. I have much more than I could knit in my lifetime. I won't admit it is enough for at least two lifetimes. I enjoy self-delusion.

What is most important to you now?
Spiritual development, evolutionary consciousness, connections with friends, writing, Children in Common, my family (husband David, sons Anton and Alexandr, aka Sasha), and helping my father for however long he remains on this earth.

What gifts do you have for others?
I offer enthusiasm, encouragement, support and joy. I am a willing listener and a compassionate soul. I approach life and tasks creatively.

What gifts would you like to receive from others?
I would love a literary agent. And a housekeeper. Also, I would love to be the primary beneficiary in several millionaires' wills, to fund more programs for Children in Common, support other charities and travel for extended periods of time. Also, if anyone know a contact within Delta Airlines, I would be so grateful for extra baggage fees waivers on the Russia trips. I pack my own things in a carry-on and check through all the donations. With the weight limit down to 50 lbs per bag, less is getting delivered to the orphanages.