Greetings! My name is Jennifer Nicholson. I am in my early thirties and I am a collections paralegal working in Bethesda, Maryland. I have been working in the administrative and legal field for fourteen years. Writing skills: I take pride in my writing and communication skills. Working in debt collection can be tough. Clients want to be paid, debtors are upset and don't understand all the technical legal writing. I am able to effectively communicate with both parties in a manner that is compassionate and helpful. I get to the heart of the matter and keep the focus on the solution. I don't need to sound superior. I need people to understand me. I need them to know that I understand them. I believe this frame of mind is key when dealing with people. My dedication to treating people with respect and compassion is shown in my writing. I have written many recommendations for friends and colleagues. I enjoy editing and helping people with their writing as well. Volunteering: I volunteer at a local thrift store every other weekend and I absolutely love it. I have an eye for dressing up the displays and knowing what will sell. I have worked in all areas of the store from pricing to sales clerk. There is no task too big or small! I straighten up the racks. I pick up broken hangers. I pick up after the customers. If someone needs help carrying something to or from their car, I'm there. Most of the volunteers are women over the age of 70 so they let me do the heavy lifting and the running around. I am so grateful for my little thrift store family. Hobbies/talents: Art and singing! I have years worth of sub culture art magazine clippings that I have made into small mixed media pieces. I am slowly getting into painting. I love to sing- mostly in the comforts of my own home these days but I frequented karaoke for years and some open mic nights. Health/Fitness: I know it is a bit personal, but I am a young person in recovery. November 17, 2016 marked three years of uninterrupted sobriety. I lived the better part of a decade drinking like the world was going to end. There was no sparkle in my eyes. There were no healthy relationships. There was a shell of a person. Late 2013 I made a decision to turn things around. I share this because it might help me connect with others and to enforce my very strong desire to be physically, mentally, and spiritually well. I am interested in healthy living, learning more about nutrition, and weight lifting. I currently hit the gym 2-3 times a week. I have muscles (sort of)! I am enjoying my journey. I am interested in working with others on projects that focus on health, fitness, wellness and recovery. Thanks for reading!