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Born in Denver, CO
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Move to San Diego
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Convert to LDS Church
At 11 years of age during early adolescence I was baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This greatly changed my life's trajectory. I'm sure that had I not had this experience I probably would have gotten into trouble with boys, alcohol, drugs, the law, etc. This event impacted my family and my social systems. For instance, one of my youth leaders hired me to babysit. I learned how much I love children and had money to spend. I believe this led to my independent nature. -
High School Graduation
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Marriage
At 18 years of age (late adolescence/early adulthood) I got married. I wanted to be a grown up and take care of a household, plus my family was moving out of state. I had a life goal to find a husband and have a family. This life event affected my family and social systems. It also impacted my trajectory as I was no longer looking for a spouse but focusing on building a family. -
Move to Utah
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Hospitalized with Depression
At 21 years of age (emerging adulthood) I became very ill. I was working full time, going to school full time, had a high level of anxiety, perfectionistic tendencies, no family nearby, started to realize I didn't really know the person I married. My life trajectory got off course (but this isn't a bad thing). This impacted my family, social, work and education systems. -
Move to Arizona
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Begin Parenting
At age 23 (young adulthood) become a licensed foster parent and begin parenting abused and neglected children with severe trauma histories. This changes my trajectory as I become focused on helping children feel loved. This impacts my family and social systems. My mom becomes a huge source of emotional support. Socially, I cannot do typical parent activities because my children are extremely aggressive and must be watched constantly which leads to isolation from other parents. -
Oldest Daughter Born
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Buy first home
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Adopt 2 foster children
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Youngest Daughter Born
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Graduate from University of Arizona
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Begin working part-time for non-profit agency that assists families that have children with special needs
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Divorce
At the age of 35 (middle adulthood) I get divorced. I become a single parent to four children with special needs. This was a very freeing experience because I was no longer responsible for the stupid & irresponsible things my spouse did. Huge since of grief about the ending of marriage. Physically exhausted from the demands of doing it all on my own. My family and social systems were impacted. -
A New Beginning
43 years old (middle adulthood) start new job and MSW program in the same week. Excitement about moving forward and doing things I've wanted to do for a long time. These impact my life trajectory as I move into a slightly different career and attain higher earning potential. These new beginnings impact my family, social and financial systems. Had to leave good friends behind at previous job. Going back to school as oldest daughter begins college. Take state job with great benefits but lower pay.
