Meet Tiffany
I’m divorced.
My father was a drunk, gambling, abusive womanizer.
I didn’t know any of my extended family growing up – no grandparents, aunts, uncles or cousins.
I didn’t technically graduate from high school.
I don’t have a college degree.
I was paid significantly less in my first professional job than the men I worked with.
I’ve been the target of 2 sexual assaults and 1 act of bizarre perversion.
I’ve been through 2 bouts of kidney failure and the very earliest stage of breast cancer.
I was a single mom.
I’ve gone decades without a vacation.
I’m married to the perfect man for me.
My step-father was a precious gift that left this earth too soon.
My mother and my sister are two of my most favorite people to hang out with.
My younger brother was the first person to call and offer a kidney when he thought I needed one.
I got enough of a college education to know that I didn’t need one.
I had an amazing mentor at my first real job.
I can’t remember the last time I was sick.
My children are grown and happily making their way in the world.
I’ve never “worked” a day in my life.
I’ve been fortunate. I’ve had a life of few hardships and countless blessings.
If I had to choose a motto for life it would be – “Life is a choice, choose wisely.”
Choices come in all shapes and sizes – difficult, easy, large, small… regardless of the size or difficulty, the choice you make could change your life dramatically – own your choices, own your life.
Okay, I promised a little humor sprinkled through this blog – and that was all pretty serious stuff – so I’ll end with this – Stop taking life so seriously, you know, nobody gets out alive.
Thanks for joining me, I’m looking forward to having you along for the ride.
T.
I admire such strong women!!!! You didn’t let the bad things win!
Thanks Robin – a lot of it had to do with my mom – she’s a strong lady.
T.
I love you.
The feeling is mutual my friend! T.
I didn’t think I could love or respect you more than I already do…..but now that I’ve read all this, I have even more love and admiration for you than before.
Thanks Terri – you are so kind. This comment made my day. I’ve really been fortunate in the life I’ve been given – especially in the people who have become a part of it. Congrats on your 20 years at work – I’m sure your students adore you, and the parents do too.
You are a true inspiration!
Thanks Becky, that’s the nicest thing anyone can say to me. I’m so glad you along with me on this journey. T.
Wow. Total inspiration. Go get ’em. Everything should be a piece of cake after that. You got this and we have you. Thanks for all you do for us.
I feel a kindred spirit with you. I too was abused as a child but I did not define myself with what was done to me. I am the woman I am because I chose to live by what I am a loving, considerate person who raised 2 beautiful children and married a man who loved me for who I am 36 years ago. He is the love of my life, the father of my 2 children, and my heart and soul. I really applaud you Tiffany for the beautiful woman you became. I love you!
Thanks so much Vicki. You nailed it – how you define yourself is the most important choice you can make in life. The amazing thing about it, especially as a woman, we can continually re-define and improve. The world is our oyster – so glad to be sharing mine with all of you. T.
Tiffany
Here’s what I remember about your 15 year old self. I was a completely awkward teen who had just moved from London England and you were in my English class looking just the same as you do now. You did these out loud readings of scenes from books with another girl and you guys were amazing. I think you competed in these events at other schools but you were so poised and fluid. I did not have the same command at that age but really remember watching you do that And wishing I could do that too.
I’m sorry we can’t always know everyone’s truth at certain times and space and that you probably hid a lot of suffering behind a really pretty, effervescent blond California girl. You had a lot of talent at a young age and obviously a lot of perseverance. The ability to overcome trauma and flat out hard times is admirable and what a great roll model for your kids. I’m sure they think you’re amazeballs. Thanks for reaching out on FB and I’m excited to follow along on your blog.
Thanks Jennifer – I never thought of myself as posied or fluid, LOL isn’t it funny how much perceptions & slef-perceptions vary. I think that was Cheryl Munson – she and I did compete together in a few Speech Contests. I hope you’re doing well. I love reconnecting with people, FB is amazing for that. Are you coming to the All Class reunion on July 3rd?
I live in Seattle and can’t make it down this year but enjoy if you’re down there!
I have had hard times & Bi Polar is just another thing to deal with but I do feel that I have survived things because I have had to cope with other harder things.
I admire you for your openness & honesty, drive & enthusiasm but your excitement for life I love the most. You make me smile, inspire me & remind me that life is about those “oh oh oh” moments.
You are a special woman & should be proud of yourself & what you have achieved within yourself but also outwardly as Totally Tiffany. I would love to be able to meet you & have a chat as you are awe inspiring 💞💞
Thanks Julie – that is so kind. Maybe we will meet someday. If I get to go back to doing Scrapbooking shows I might just end up in your area. Thanks so much for following along with my new adventure.
Tiffany, I just heard about your blog …Life in the Wick….this morning on you Total Tiffany Blog…..I have been a fan of yours for a very long time ,….ever since I bought your products at GASC in Arlington Texas….So here I am following you ….I am 72 years old and have been crafting most of my life…sewing…crocheting….scrapbooking …cardmaking and many in between….but I am still learning something new everyday….so I thank you for letting me continue with you on this new adventure for me…..
Hi Kathy – Thanks so much for continuing along with me. I think of my crafting crowd as my long-time friends, so I’m thrilled that you’re sticking with me. I’m just getting started with this blog, but really enjoying it! It’s nice to be able to relax and share. If there’s anything you’d like to know, please feel free to leave a comment.
Thanks again,
Tif
Just wow! Love your outlook on life! I love all your videos and I’m looking forward to following you on life in the wick! You are a true inspiration!