I am a fifth generation Californian and San Josean. On my mother's side I am the descendant of Mexican and Chilean miners who came to work in the New Almaden quicksilver mine outside of San Jose, CA. I do extensive research tracing the families of the early New Almaden miners.

Through my paternal Grandmother, I am a descendant of Anthony Gholson, who came to America with his brother from Wales in 1680. My branch of the Gholsons were early settlers of Texas.