I became politically aware, and a student of politics, during Vietnam and Watergate. I hated what lengths Nixon and his staff went to, not yet understanding that most politicians would say anything -- or do anything -- in order to stay in power.

Experienced the blandness of Ford (voted for him anyway) and the depression and defeatism of Carter (not in a million years).

Finally, I got involved, working for the Anderson campaign in Colorado in 1980. After his defeat, I became a fullfledged conservative during RRs first term. Never looked back, nor would I want to.

An initial fan of President Bush, I became increasingly disappointed with his -- and Congress's -- big government spending. And forget about New Jersey...

With this last election, I finally came to the decision that there is a difference between party and ideology, and will vote my conscience from now on, not the lesser of two evils. I know this will be inviting some criticism, but at some point, we must all take a stand. I am there now.

In my spare time, I've been carrying on the work of my Grandmother, researching my family history. Because of her, and all those who came before me, I can trace my lineage back to the year 99 (0099). I am a member of the SAR, the Magna Charta Barons and the Colonial Order of the Crown.

I believe the conservative way of thinking is the greatest hope for this nation -- indeed, the world -- and I'm glad to see more of us willing to speak out in favor of it.

God Bless America. The Greatest Nation in the History of Mankind.