About Me

Diana Squillace

 

On my 50^th birthday, I decided that I wanted one thing and one thing only…to attain a master degree.  Much to my husband’s shock and dismay, I decided (not without his input) that I would quit my job and return to Cal State San Bernardino to do just that!  Prior to this huge (mid-life) decision, I worked as a newspaper journalist (and photographer) and as a creative writer for the marketing department of a large corporation. 

 

I am fortunate in that I have led a very interesting life with many obstacles to overcome.  The first period of my adult life was spent as a single mother of two fine children:  Athena Phillips and Leon Phillips.  I’m proud to say that both Athena and Leon have grown into progressive and admirable adults.  What more could a mother ask for?  Not much. 

 

Athena (my oldest) is working on a Master Degree in Social Work.  She is also involved in modern dance in Portland, Oregon where she performs on stage along with the rest of her group.  She’s a spirited young woman who savors every moment that life has to offer her.   She is married to a handsome young painting contractor by the name of Ramses Verlinden.  Get a load of those names!  

 

Leon (my youngest) is a Master Tech for Mitsubishi.  I’m again proud to say that Mitsubishi employs 83 master techs worldwide, and my son is one of them.  What a guy!  He also makes for one terrific dad.  He is married to a beautiful young woman by the name of Rachelle Grandits/Phillips.  Rachelle is also studying for a master degree in Education/Counseling and she is the mother of my beautiful grandson Shawn Phillips who already appears to have inherited a few daring genes from both his mother and his father.  

 

The latter part of my adult life is when I met my handsome prince, Dane Squillace.  He and I have been married now since July 21, 1991.  He is also a painting contractor – a recent career change from a Compressed Natural Gas Technician/Diesel Mechanic for Sunline Transit Agency in Thousand Palms, CA.  He now enjoys the life of self-employment – not always what it’s cracked up to be – but he’s happy none-the-less, and he’s always at his best when he’s happy.

 

I consider myself a fortunate person, mostly because of my family members also including brothers, sisters, parents, nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles (too many to name) and of course, my very dear friends.  My hobbies include: water colors, pen and ink, writing, and at one time I enjoyed modern ballet and jazz, not to mention the pleasure of equestrian activities.  I love to hike, fish, and I enjoy nature immensely.

 

It appears as if my life is perfect.  So not the case, as I have encountered many snags over the years, as so many people do if they live long enough.  Even so, with all the imperfections life has to offer, I have to say, I’ve got what I need – and I love my friends and family, and I’m earning a master degree in Instructional Technology.  In my eyes, life just doesn’t get much better than that!