I was employed as a back office support in the financial sector for approximately 30 years, which provided a strong background in customer service and problem solving. It was very rewarding and I felt appreciated by all levels of the company. Prior to taking an early retirement, I was employed as a server for a well established catering company and as a housekeeper for a long term care facility. Early retirement provided the opportunity to spend quality time with my parents, particularly my mother, who has had alzheimer's for the past 14 years. I visit her several times a week, during which time I feed her lunch, take her out for walks in her chair, attend live music and group sing alongs, which my mother loves. My father lives close by, so that he can visit her often. We meet weekly and have become very close, as a result of my mother's condition. I wish to re-enter the workplace on a part-time basis and offer the family caregiving skills to others who may benefit from them. Self care is very important to me, which consists of a variety of daily exercise, including swimming, gym, yoga and cycling. I also love to decorate my living space and redesign/alter clothing (for myself, friends and neighbours). I am soft spoken, patient, a good listener and show a genuine interest in people. Every day is an opportunity to grow, learn from others, share a smile and be grateful in many ways.

I am a single person and although I had no children of my own, I realize that I find great joy being in their presence. My volunteer experience with the art programs through the Vancouver Art Gallery have provided me with the opportunity to interact with children of all ages, to encourage their creativity, in completing art projects within the time scope provided. They are a delight and have enriched my life tremendously. I reflect back on my own childhood and how my mother would invite the neighbourhood kids over, to explore different mediums and come away with their own creation. We'd all gather around the kitchen and let our imagination spur us on. My other positive interactions involve my neice and nephew, who have grown up close to me. We regularly got together as a family and it was rewarding to play and talk with them, to see how their interests changed. They are now in their late teens and now I enjoy them on a new level, as they have matured and have a greater understanding of the world. I appreciate how my brother and his wife have nutured their children, protecting them in an appropriate way, whild still encouraging them to explore and be curious. I feel that I am capable of offering quality childcare and being respectful, according to their needs.

Whie in collect I studied fabric art, life drawing, creative writing and anthropology. I also took courses in accounting and reception.