I’m a freelance writer and editor for a living. My husband, Irish, is a former addict and recently hit his six-month milestone in recovery — it’s a day-by-day thing and there are no guarantees when it comes to sobriety.

We’re dog parents to a pit bull mix named Barney. He’s the best dog either of us has ever known.

For just over three years we were street homeless in a medium-sized city. It took us six months to bring our homelessness to an end without the help of any programs or agencies. We didn’t fit anyone’s criteria for assistance.

Irish and I both have criminal backgrounds. Knowing the issues ex-offenders have finding employment is why I started my own freelancing business…while I was still homeless.

For obvious reasons, Bella, Irish, and Barney are not our real names.