Before moving to Cyprus to "live the dream" in January 2005, I spent almost 20 years in the retail industry.
I studied languages at university (French and German) and took a job in retail for something to do over my first summer holiday.
Quickly discovering the fast pace of working in a head office based Buying and Merchandising environment, I soon decided to make a career out of retail.
I worked in menswear then outdoor sports and finally discount ladies fashion.
I paid off my mortgage at the age of 32 and resolved to start my own outdoor orientated business by the time I was 35. Along the way, I met my husband Al and we travelled the world on our exciting MTB and trekking adventures.
The decision to take the plunge came at the age of 40 after a few years extra work at Director level to earn enough cash to pay for the start up outright. We've never looked back.
Now I split my time between riding or hiking the trails with clients and freelance writing and web design. I'm doing all the things I love to do and on my terms. It's an amazing thing to have your own freedom and know that every penny you earn came from you.
I started writing for Suite 101 in 2008 and was promoted to Feature Writer for Cycling and Mountain Biking after 4 months.
Life is a rocky road...so ride a mountain bike.
