What’s a piece of media (book, movie, song) that changed how you see the world?

I read it at the tail end of the 1990’s & it shifted my perspective. It’s a book about being into genders & loving them equally. But as someone who’s trans. I really enjoyed the book & thought it was one of the best I’ve read.

Although I’m straight I’ve always had friends that march to a different drum. I was invited to a gender group years ago now. I found it fascinating that you can wake up one day & not feel that you’re in the right body.

In college I had friends from all walks of life. It broadened my view & taught me that not everything is what it seems on the surface. Much like the book Middlesex.

Which languages do you speak and how did that impact your life?

I speak 3 languages, although 2 are similar but not necessarily the same. I learned to switch languages to a dime when I was younger. It’s something I still do.

It impacted my life in the way that I always have an accent no matter what language I speak. Sometimes I get asked where I’m from but not that often.

Having the ability to speak multiple languages has helped me. I understand some other languages such as some German & Icelandic.

Being back & living in Europe I’m not so unique anymore. But when I lived state side I was exotic & unique.

Something I sometimes miss.

Who are you most inspired by?

My sweet, stubborn & over 100 grandma. She was a force to be reckoned with. She Inspires me every day. Her ability to talk to anyone & her kindness is something I miss.

She wouldn’t put up with crap & taught me not to do the same. Her ability to knit her own clothes & make me sweaters I still have. Makes me forever grateful.

She was the matriarch of my family & she was determined to stay in her house until she couldn’t. I miss our conversations & sitting in her living room & looking up at the mountains in her town. I recall our many family reunions where we’d sit & eat shrimp late into the night. Our family reunions when she’d make over 7 cakes for the family. We lived on them for days & would often fight over the remaining pieces.

Savner deg Farmor.