I've been in school almost nonstop since I was six. But I've been on the teacher side of the table as a college prof since 1974 at CSU Bakersfield (yes, Buck Owens country). It isn't as monotonous as it might sound because there have been research sabbaticals and trips to many interesting locations and countries. Biologists are lucky. They always have an excuse to go somewhere for their studies. When we aren't traveling in summers, my husband, Dave, and I get to spend the summer at our little place in Bliss, Idaho (yes, that is its real name) where the Snake River charms our every day. The joys of my life are still my family and friends. Work is cool, but friends are even better. Naturally Dave has had the most special place in my life, and we just celebrated 25 years together. In addition to my husband, the two best people ever to have graced my life, and this universe, are Paulette (yes, my twin) and Patrick (yes, my son). No other detail I could mention is as important as acknowledging those two jewels. For our last reunion I wrote, "mostly it's been a grand life." That is still true so it must be that I am one of the luckiest people I know (yes, I mean it).