I grew up in Michigan in a happy home until my parents moved the family out here to California. I started gaining weight quickly---I gained 90 pounds in 4 years. I drank heavily for 12 years and I smoked cigarettes for 28 years. I have quit each addiction and have written a new book which will be out in September titled "I Quit! Cigarettes, Candy Bars & Booze." I live and work in Santa Barbara. I also volunteer on a local spiritual tv show and at a nursing home a few times per month.