10 people who most helped me in my life. – each of us meet people as we go through life, many of them help us or have an influence upon us. Sometimes we may not realize their influence at the time. Quite often we forget or do not get a chance to thank them. This list is an opportunity to acknowledge those people and to express your thanks.

• My grandfather, Howard Tallman... for teaching me that life is to be celebrated, that it's worth making a big deal out of little holidays and family, to put others first, and the value of humor and charity
• My husband, Eli Barnes... for teaching me that there is such a thing as unconditional love
• My kindergarten teacher, Gloria Dressel, for teaching me what good teachers can accomplish, and also for being my first experience with a person who has a disability. I feel fortunate to have my first school experience be with someone who has an endless capacity for joy and kindness.
• Reine Tupper, my first real Art teacher. For teaching me how to more accurately see and express the beauty in life, and also that there can be a grace and beauty to dealing with a fatal illness
• Lyn Ramsey, for being a guide at a time when I needed it. The best kind of guides don't tell you where to go, but teach you to trust in your own instincts. Lyn did that.
• Warren Lang, for teaching me boundless stillness and compassion
• My father, who has never gossiped and has a huge amount of patience
• Megan Lockey my first and longest running friend. We learned how to make trouble and have fun together.
• Belinda, for making me giggle until I hurt, repeatedly over 10 years
• Kylie, my little. I love watching her grow up. She is confident and brave. She's taught me the value of mentoring others