I enjoyed reading your story.  You've come a long way.  Your transparency of how tough it was is good for everyone to hear.  It's not always easy to see our dreams come to fruition.  When I saw your steps to financial freedom it hit a cord with me.  We have accomplished something similar in an amazing short period ...

My name is Beth and I am interested in investing in real estate or finding a suitable franchise.  I am a certified stockbroker but now work for myself--got enough financial education from the training at Smith Barney that I replaced my income by handling my own portfolio and trading stock options.  I would love to find others to talk ...