Who?
You'd be amazed at how many people go through the drive-thru naked. Would you like fries with that? My first job was at Burger King. It kicked off a number of character-building jobs that eventually led to my professional writing career and fully-clothed clients.
A job in the Pathology department of the local hospital was fun. I got to file extremely gruesome photos of dead folks. One guy buried an axe halfway in the ground and threw himself on it. Very dramatic. Mind you, I couldn't get into R-rated movies at the time. Anyway, I'm one of the few folks who loves hospitals.
Then, I moved into a funky South Street apartment. I spent an ill-fated month working at Uno's Pizzaria. Aside from the fact that the cook did crack in the alley and unusual items ended up in the pizzas, I was the worst waitress in Philadelphia - ever. I quit before they could fire me.
I went on to check id's at a night club in Society Hill. I also worked as a shooter girl which involved wearing a black bodysuit and a holster of shot glasses, a gin bottle and, if memory serves, 7 Up. I would bang the concoction on the back of a patron until it fizzed. I felt like a vampire going to bed at 5 a.m. every morning and the homeless man who slept in my foyer didn't approve of my hours. I learned a little too much about the human condition.
Then came the best pre-career job ever. I worked as a receptionist at swanky beauty salon, where I received free services. The angels had smiled upon me. Good pay and even better stories. One involves the F.B.I. and another a patron's bondage fetish. I'll tell you about both over a fizzy 7Up and gin.
Somehow, I managed to fit 20 credits a semester into two days. I enjoyed classes when I went and would love to be a professor when I have gray hair and wisdom. I love those leather elbow patches on tweed jackets. Cerebral is sexy.
My 35mm camera became an appendage while studying radio-television-film at Temple University. After graduating, I took a freelance gig photographing an engagement party for a family who I'm fairly certain inspired the Sopranos. With that short-lived career behind me, I was introduced to a newspaper editor who was looking for a sections editor. I showed him my Temple News clippings and the next thing I knew, I was a journalist. I had been writing my whole life, but it had never occurred to me that I could be a writer. Do what you bleed.
Just as I was leaving the newspaper biz to freelance, a large pharmaceutical company offered me a fabulous communications position with equally fabulous pay and the opportunity to travel frequently to London. It was tempting. But, it wasn't me. I have no regrets. Although, it would be nice to take a trip across the pond for some fish and chips with a pint. Do you have a travel assignment for me?
Aside from writing, I am also a lifestyle expert (a.k.a. The Luxe Lady) for TV, print and radio. You can also catch me on QVC at all times of day and night representing their Amadeus line of fine linens and their Home Reflections line of flameless candles and decor.
What?
I
love books, TV, movies, Italian food, alternative and baroque music,
honeysuckle, the ocean, the moon, hot fudge sundaes with extra
everything, my family and cat. Not in that order.
Best (and Bravest) Trip Taken:
A Snow Mobile Safari Tour of Yellowstone National Park. It has got to be the most beautiful place on Earth.
Proudest Accomplishments:
My kids, my first newspaper series, my first spec script and organizing my first charity event for moms in need.
Where?
I'm a Philadelphian. I was born here and after my Dad left the navy, raised here.
When?
I've been living the free in freelancing for 19 years.
How?
I've accomplished everything with the support of family and friends, but have been motivated by lesser individuals - class reunion attendees, Sister Marie Terese (an English teacher who repeatedly told me I would fail and my skirt was too short) and my id, ego and super ego.
Why?
The ultimate philosophical question...
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