When I was a child selling postcards to tourists, I never thought I would write a book. Being raised in the Gypsy culture was like a movie with sweet parts mixed with painful times. In my childlike thinking, I had no idea how that drama would continue or how it would end. Looking back to the change from that childhood to becoming Director of the Domari Center gave me an incentive to tell my story and show the world what it is like to be a Gypsy woman.

I thank God that my life was never boring. Every day had a story— a funny story or a painful story. In this good life, I call myself “Survivor” because my will is strong and helps me prepare for each new day. I plan what to do and how to do it in a way that will not bring pain.

I write this book to show the difficulties of being Gypsy, but also to show the creativity and beauty in the Gypsy culture. I write it to thank the people who were placed in my life as helpers and encouragers. Many of them have passed away. I hope the readers will enjoy my story as I have enjoyed living it. I give thanks to God for what He has given me in these years.