I was born in Northern Oregon in the late '60s and was relocated shortly after to Northern California. I was not old enough at the time to develop any real memory of my birthplace. My parents chose to move because the job prospects at the time were very dismal and the hope that California would bring prosperity was too good to let pass.Within a few years of moving to California, my parents were able to purchase their first home. It was/is small by family home standards, but it suited us just fine. I should also mention that I have a brother who is 11 months older than me, so in all, there were 4 of us. The years in between then and when I turned 18 aren't very remarkable when looking back on them, and in fact, I don't recall much with great detail. I had the normal adolescent and teenage experiences I suppose and I came out of it alive, so I guess it was a successful venture all told.After turning 18 and leaving home, I worked odd jobs until 1989 when I moved to Washington. This period, upon reflection, was one of the best living experiences I have ever had. I was really free and supporting myself totally independent of any external interference. This lasted for a few years and then, considering a college education as my next step, I moved back to California. However brief in Washington, it was a remarkable experience.I didn't get around to my education right away. I worked odd jobs and played around but I wasn't getting anywhere, fast! I decided to sell may Camaro and get a small, cheap ride. I quit my day job and went to work for a pizza place that would allow me to work evening shifts and good tips. Funny how things work out.I did start attending the local community college and in the process of trying to true my rudder, I met my wife. Although, she may have suspected it more than I did at that point. She came in as my new manager at the pizza place. This is what I meant when I said funny how things work out. I was very happy in Washington, but for some reason, I decided that I had to come back to California for my eductation needs. My parents weren't able to support me outright(although they did contribute financial help now and then) so why come back? I probably could have kept my day job and scheduled evening classes to get through school. I didn't have to take a job at a pizza place, as security guards work evenings as well. In fact, if I had gone back into security work, I wouldn't have had to trade down on my car and I would have the perfect opportunity to study. So why did I make all the choices that led me to meeting my wife? Discuss amongst yourselves.My wife and I got married secretly, while working at the pizza place. Of course, the secret didn't last long because there are some out there that just don't get it. Things worked out, however, as they always do. I eventually graduated from college and got a job with a communications equipment manufacturer and that led to me returning to school several more times to earn 2 more degrees, which eventually led to my current position as Information Systems Administrator. Actually, that is a title I made up, but I guess you could call it Manager of Information Systems or Network Administrator, but it all boils down to the same thing. I get to play with computers and stuff. Not bad, eh?My wife and I have three children in doggie clothing. They are all little poop factories, but they are family, nonetheless. Two of the dogs share the same father. Columbo has Jack Russell, Lab, Chow and a little bit of thoroughbred horse in him. He is a remarkable athlete and lives to be happy. His sister Thalia has Jack Russell and Dalmation. She is the sweetest little polka dot girl who occasionally wanders out in the back yard and catches a bird. Agile! Then there's Picasso. He is a full-bred Pomeranian and 12 pounds of TNT. What a mouth on that little guy! He has absolutely no idea how small he is. They are quite a group and I wouldn't trade them in for anything.I spend my free time noodling around on one of my guitars(see the interests page) and working on scale models(again with that page). As much as I like my job and the things I get to do and play with at work, I really think having something to do that is completely unrelated when away from work keeps it enjoyable.I am sure there is plenty more to say, but to what end? To bore you to death? Probably too late on that part, but thanks for reading and hopefully, if you are an employer, you get a bit of insight that will help you realize I am the best candidate for the job. Thanks and have a good life!
