Never Say Never

Milwaukee, Wisconsin - October 2001. When I was twenty years old I told myself I was never going to live in a city again. Never say never (I know.) I was ready for change and had been on the Chippewa much longer then planned to raise my kids after their dad/my husband died. My last few years on the Chip I was able to work remotely for the Eastern Region Threatened and Endangered Species (TES) Program. The timing couldn't have been better, as Davyd was born in 1999 and we had the perfect balance with a nanny and I at home with him for his early years. Rare species have always my passion - natures treasure hunt. The Regional Office made the position permanent in 2001, and I was chosen as the Regional TES Biologist. We were off to Milwaukee.

Professionally it was a good move. I was able to advance through three positions, from TES Biologist to Regional Botanist to my current position as Deputy Director of Renewable Resources. Although I missed the direct tie to the land and local people, it didn't take me long to appreciate the ability to make a difference on a broader scale. I worked with biologists and botanists from across the country that I so admire. It was affirming for me be recognized with a Regional Honor Award a couple years ago for "making a difference". During this same time, I participated in a leadership program and then moved into the Deputy Director position.

Though I said I would never (I know, I know) move my kids in high school, they thrived in Milwaukee. Nic and Ali were glad to broaden their world and the education they received at Nicolet High School couldn't be topped. We all missed our friends but learned that time and space can't separate those you hold dear. We all enjoy the diversity of the arts, people and entertainment that Milwaukee offers. I still miss the woods and have vowed to return, but we live across the street from a 200 acre forest a quarter mile from Lake Michigan - so I imagine all the time.