July 29th, 2019 My mother had great hopes and dreams for me, as all mothers do for their children in one way or another. I was named Connie after singers Connie Stevens and Connie Francis because she wanted me to sing and play the piano. Another singer she admired was Constance "Connee" Boswell, born in her home state of Missouri and part of "The Boswell Sisters" jazz harmony group. Connee was a gifted jazz vocalist, unable to walk after a childhood bout with polio, and a great influence … [Read more...]
“Go Back Where You Came From”
The words rang loud and clear and pierced through to the heart… "Go back where you came from!" It's the first week in August of 1986 and my first year as a classroom teacher. I was assigned a 5th/6th grade split and happy to have the job. Even though I had been a substitute teacher for several months during the previous school year I had no idea what it would be like to be the leader and at the helm in my own classroom. I'd imagined an idealistic setting where everyone loved to read and … [Read more...]
The President Has Been Assassinated
I was in the third grade when President Kennedy was assassinated in 1963. The principal announced it over the PA (public address) system and her tone was soft and defeated as she shared the news in a gentle way. My teacher, Miss Turk told us to get our things ready. It wasn’t even eleven o’clock but we did as we were told and lined up with our lunch boxes and jackets on that chilly November morning. The mothers began arriving within minutes, all dressed in floral print house dresses and … [Read more...]
I’m an Introvert
I’m an introvert. People usually don’t believe me when I state this as a fact, but it’s true. I’m able to laugh and joke and spend time with groups of people for a few hours once in awhile, but I must then take refuge in a quiet room with the lights dimmed to recharge my batteries. Monday mornings are particularly challenging because my weekends have become busier and more exciting over the past several years. I am an online entrepreneur working alone in front of my computer for three to four … [Read more...]