Ernie lives in a retirement complex in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, surrounded by luscious maple trees and vibrant fall foliage. He is proud to have grown up on a medium-sized dairy farm with his adopted parents, brother and sister. He began his education in a one-room schoolhouse, an experience he credits for shaping his values and stamina for life. He went on to earn three degrees in Nursing, the last a PhD. Ernie spent fifty-one years working in Psychiatric Mental Wellness Nursing and found nothing more fulfilling than helping others improve their lives physically and mentally. He has worked in Nursing Education, Administration, Research, and Private Practice as a Nurse Practitioner. Ernie is now enjoying both the benefits and the challenges of retirement.