Random Facts and Experiences: A Life Full of Surprises

Life is filled with a kaleidoscope of experiences that shape who we are. From early childhood dreams to heartwarming family memories, every moment is worth cherishing. As someone who has led a life bursting with stories, I often feel like there should be a book written about my journey. But, truth be told, I would need multiple volumes to encompass it all. So, for now, let’s start with this light-hearted post that reveals some random facts about me and highlights that undoubtedly deserve their own stories.

The Basics: Food, Colors, and Family

First off, I must share my passion for food. If there is one dish that could win my heart, it’s spaghetti. There’s something incredibly comforting about a steaming plate of pasta, whether it’s drenched in a rich marinara sauce or tossed with garlic and olive oil. On the sweeter side of things, cheesecake is my ultimate dessert choice. Just the thought of its creamy texture makes my mouth water.

A slice of creamy cheesecake ready to be enjoyed.

In an ever-changing world, I find stability and joy in my family. After 27 years with my partner, we’ve built a life together that includes two wonderful sons, a darling granddaughter, and three step-children. in 2011 one or two at a time, somewhere around 150 of my boys friends then and now started calling my husband and I mom and dad. I affectionately call them my 'kiddos'.

My Height and Personality

Standing at a petite 5 feet tall and weighing 100 pounds, I sometimes feel like a miniature version of myself. However, height does not define capability or spirit. Like many, I face challenges in life. I navigate through a personality disorder, two mental health issues, and anxiety. Acceptance and personal understanding are key for me.

When I was eight, I dreamed of becoming a police officer, perhaps influenced by the desire to serve and protect. As I transitioned into adulthood, my aspirations shifted. At 18, I wanted to be a medical assistant, which seemed more feasible at the time. It wasn't until I turned 25 that I found myself working in bars and clubs as an entertainer. Throughout my journey across over 80 clubs in four different states, I wrestled with alcohol and drugs – lessons in resilience and strength.

The Discovery of My Roots

Perhaps one of the most profound aspects of my story lies within my adoption. At just two months old, I was taken from my birth mother and adopted. It was a journey filled with self-discovery, especially when I happened to stumble upon my birth mother in Akron on Halloween in 2008. It took me another three years to identify my birth father, but by then, all I had was an obituary—a stark reminder of the fleeting nature of life and connections.

Imagine my surprise when I learned that I was the oldest of eight siblings in my biological family while being the youngest in my adoptive family. This twist of fate was verified through DNA tests, which confirmed that I now have a total of 12 siblings to love and connect with, even though two have sadly passed.

A family gathering showcasing a sense of connection and togetherness.

Interestingly, my adoptive dad, one of my biological brothers, and my firstborn son share the same birthday. It’s moments like these that make family ties feel like an intricate web connecting us all. My dad and I would go to Lawson's for chip dip and Lay's chips. Nowadays, I work at Circle K, selling the very snacks that once brought us joy.

Expanding Family Ties

When it comes to family, it seems the web just keeps expanding. My adoptive dad, birth mother, and biological dad each had five or more siblings, which means I am fortunate enough to have around 60 aunts and uncles. Including my adoptive, birth, step, and in-law families, I've got about 100 nieces and nephews—and I’m anticipating two more in early 2025.

The complexity of family ties can make for fascinating stories. Recently, I discovered a cousin who was a regular customer at the store where I work. This cousin and my husband both survived gunshot wounds eight years apart and within half a mile of each other, sharing similar injuries. Uniquely, that cousin's wife had her firstborn on her dad's birthday, further intertwining our family narratives.

Living Through Challenges

It's not all sunshine and rainbows; I've faced my fair share of darkness. I have survived 10 crimes, the first of which occurred when I was just 13 years old. The latest incident struck in 2015, reminding me that resilience is often born from trauma.

Despite the challenges, my favorite season is autumn, with Halloween and snow falling closely behind. However, I must admit—I despise the cold. Living with Raynaud's phenomenon means that my extremities respond poorly to the chilly weather, giving the sensation of built-in frostbite from November to March.

,

To top it off, I live with various physical health issues that include heart, lung, and kidney problems, degenerative disc disease, and possibly neurofibromatosis. Life has thrown curveballs my way, but I have learned to keep swinging back.

The beauty of autumn leaves signaling a change of season.

Triumphs Amidst Chaos

There are bright spots amid the chaos, like the time my sons and I barely survived a house fire twenty years ago. This incident left my blood oxygen level below 50%, a stark reminder of the fragility of life. Yet, it's these very experiences that have sculpted a resilient character within me.

As for my heritage, I proudly identify with a rich blend of Irish, Cherokee, French, German, and Scottish backgrounds. Each lineage adds depth and color to my identity. Despite the chaotic nature of my existence, I consider my life to be truly awesome, surrounded by incredible people who continue to support me.

A Wish to Write

The idea of writing a book that encompasses my myriad life experiences is always on my mind. However, for now, I pour my heart into posts like this, sharing snippets of my fascinating life with the hope that one day, someone might string these moments together for an even bigger story.

If you resonate with any part of my journey or if my experiences inspire you, know that you are not alone. Life is, at its core, a series of random facts and experiences interwoven with love, chaos, and the pursuit of joy.

---

Feel free to take a moment to reflect on your own journey. What are some random facts or experiences that have shaped who you are today? Let’s celebrate our stories, however chaotic they may seem, for they are uniquely ours.