Which is why I decided to learn more about their plight and our nation's legal and social response.

CNN: Don't turn your back on these children

My background was in Trading Systems for banks, so I decided to learn about GPS, how to programme a mobile phone (smartphones were just appearing then) and developed a server to hold the parking regulations and geographic data taken from a couple of enlightened authorities.

BBC: Parking - Your Thoughts

Because I had dropped out and didn't have to take the normal classes, I decided to take a calligraphy class to learn how to do this.

WSJ: Steve Jobs: 'Find What You Love'

Since there was no trade organization to help them network, learn and grow, I decided to start one in 2000 called the Indie Beauty Network.

FORBES: Helping Handmade Artisans with Indie Beauty Network

Eyeing the cheerful bins of cherries at the market, I decided it was time to bring them into the kitchen and really learn about their flavors.

NPR: Cherries on Top