Speaking of early influences that directed us toward this field . . .  In
addition to the usual backyard excavation projects with the neighborhood boys, I
recall spending a lot of time crafting elaborate dry laid stone dwellings with
thatched roofs for Barbie and GI Joe.  Without thinking much about it, I
progressed from wood lintels, to corbelled openings, and finally I think to
arches.  Maybe it had something to do with Sir Bannister Fletcher's, A History
of Architecture on the Comparative Method being one of my favorite picture books
as a child!

Lisa