I grew up in Southern Oregon on 26 acres in the early 70’s where we established our homestead.  As I remember it, the land had a one-room shack on it for the 4 of us and our dog.  We were the African-American family that visited and stayed.  I was the first African-American student to attend the three community schools (Elementary, Jr. High and High School).  For that reason and because I was a girl, my U.S. Marine father, taught me how to fight and how to use knives to protect myself.

As a family, we fenced in the property, prepared the land for gardening and raised horses, cows, pigs, chickens, rabbits, quail, and pheasant. We kept busy on the homestead.  There was always something to do.  I remember it being a lot of work even though my dad did the most of it.  He made it happen. We were self-sufficient. I don’t recall visiting a grocery store very often. Looking back, my parents did a good job managing the homestead.

I proudly admit that I am a tomboy because I was my father’s son. As you will see, I am a Huntress with archery and firearm skills. My dad taught me skills like how to hunt, maintain my vehicle, a lot of boy stuff. Things that I thought, then, were “Stupid”.  I will always be grateful to him.  His knowledge and his teachings to love the outdoor is priceless.  Man, do I miss him!