This cross-cultural interior designer is happy and proud to be living in her own skin.
Born: 8/17/56Occupation: Interior DesignerChildren: daughter (30)Hometown: New York City
Born in the Dominican Republic to parents of Spanish descent, my family and I immigrated to the U.S. when I was 15. I am fluent in Spanish, Italian, and English, skills that have come in handy during my worldwide travels. I attended the New York School of Interior Design, where I received a BFA in Interior Design. Whether reading books about design, French history, or biographies of female role models, I constantly have a book in hand -- I'm a perfect match for my husband, a successful journalist. Having gained experience in design working for various firms, I freelance, decorating mostly residential spaces which provides more of an avenue to include my personal touch. Health, exercise, and spirituality are a way of life for me and a source of inspiration to others; I weight-train, practice yoga, and have always maintained a healthy diet.
Biggest Challenge: The most difficult times for me were when I was working during the day to put myself through school at night.
Inspiration: My husband has been extremely supportive of me in anything I wish to pursue.
Skill: I am very creative, a skill which has manifested itself in my work with interior design and computer graphics.
Smartest Move: I married my second husband one year ago. We had walked past each other for years while walking our dogs around the neighborhood. A friend of mine asked me to check out a house for sale in the neighborhood, and unbeknownst to me, it was the home of my soon-to-be husband. When he saw who had come to look at the house, he invited me for wine, a glass of water, and asked me on a date, saying he had a crush on me since he first saw me on the street. We were married soon thereafter.
Major Change Since 40: I have become completely comfortable with the person that I am, I am proud of my age and of the way I look, and I am true to myself.
Life Philosophy: I strive to be true to myself, naturally followed by being honest and true to others.
FIRST PUBLISHED APRIL 2009