Melinda Hopping:  

Life I worked at a variety of jobs until the age of 19 when I began working at the Galesburg Mental Health Center. I stayed there until our move down south to El Paso Tx in 1984. I was a "military" wife and loved every minute of it. My husband was in the New Mexico National Guard and we made many moves around Texas and New Mexico. I became a widow at the age of 38 and made several life changes at that time. I chose to stay in the southwest as I love the openness and mild climate (hate snow). I also made the choice to pursue a lifelong dream and entered college. I was scared to death as I had little confidence in my skills but managed to keep a great GPA and finished in five years; graduating in 2001. I have a dual degree and license in education (regular and special education) and currently teach in New Mexico. I teach New Mexico History to freshmen: I also teach them how to be productive high schoolers. I also teach US History and Honors US History to juniors. I have one child who lives in New Mexico. He is married has a son, along with 3 wonderful step children. I feel very blessed to share my life with the grandchildren. Being a grandparent is much more satisfying than I could have ever imagined. I share my life with four dogs and am extremely satisfied with my life. I am amazed at the curves I have taken down...Expand for more