It’s taken years for me to find my place. At different times in my life I had a place, and then I either outgrew it, or it outgrew me in population or political shifts.

I lived and loved in Amsterdam. There I discovered a skill I didn't know I had for a position I didn't know existed: business development, partnership management, networker. They all require the same skills. Empathy, listening, seeing patterns, communication, and problem solving.

Years later I landed in Seattle, giving up scholarships to UCLA because the weather in the PNW was dreary most of the year like Holland. The glorious days of summer were long, sunny, comfortable and so much more appreciated by residents.

By the end of 11 years, 7 of which I worked for Microsoft, I was wrung out emotionally and mentally. Returning to the east coast where I enjoyed the passion and diversity of NYC was like going home. I grew up in a diverse part of Philly and thrived on the differences.

9/11 took the wind out of my sails. I hit the road again. When I landed in Northern Virginia, attracted by the pace and intellectual horsepower, I didn't expect that my ‘yankeeness’ or direct speech to alienate. But it did and I was past the point of adapting to a more gentle approach and/or passive aggression in communications.

When the economy collapsed my net worth collapsed as did one of my running knees. It was the most perfect storm to wipe out my rather flimsy foundation. I lost my home, everything in it, my sense of self, and the feeling of independence from governmental assistance.

As I slid down the east coast chasing work I landed for 2.5 years in Nashville. It was impossible to predict how Nashville’s culture would suck the remaining life out of me. It almost killed me. The stress of the years following 9/11 culminated in taking my heart down in Nashville. Just a few minutes from departing this life, I was wrenched back into my body. And just shortly after I fought my way to San Francisco.

It’s only been 5 months but I've found my place. Culturally open and (mostly) politically progressive, with enormous diversity, intelligence and tech excitement, hiking trails galore, and stunning weather with minimal bugs…I am home. I don’t regret the journey as my learning is deeply woven into my world view. I have much to share, should anyone want to learn from my experiences.

When the fog horns blow nearby my office I smile. This is wonderful. I’m in my place.