I have loved school for as far back as I can remember. I loved the smell of the books, the vibrant colors of the crayons lined up in the little black box we were each assigned, the smooth finish of my desk with a black inkwell in the upper right corner, and especially I loved my kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Bordeaux. In my mind she was the smartest person in the world, and I counted on her to teach me all the things I needed to know to become “educated.” I also thought she was the most beautiful person in world, resembling popular actress of the day, Loretta Young, and dressing as elegantly.
Because I loved school so much it’s not surprising that I became a teacher, first in junior high English, then university teacher training, and finally teaching critical thinking in community college.
I always had a creative and entrepreneurial side, perhaps because I grew up watching my mother run her home-based beauty shop. Around age 10, I began selling handmade potholders to the patrons of the beauty shop while they sat under the dryer or waited their turns. From then on I was hooked on earning money from my creative endeavors.
Throughout my life I’ve mixed my academic career with creative pursuits. While teaching junior high through university levels I was always drawn to have a side business that involved using my right brain. Consequently, I’ve sold jewelry, owned a gift basket business, and run an after-school tutoring program. As a wife and mom of four I wove creative activities throughout our lives.
In addition to the typical tasks of motherhood, I also wrote lyrics to Bach’s Minuets to make it easier for my budding violinists to learn their pieces, wrote articles for education and consumer publications, and completed my Ph.D. at the University of Southern California with a new baby in the mix. See what I mean. I couldn’t choose, so I did what I loved.
When I retired from full-time teaching I had plans to travel and write my life story. About the time I was giving the book some thought I discovered blogging. I attended the first Blog World Conference in 2007 in Las Vegas, NV, thanks to my friend Shirley Frazier who was a speaker. When I returned home I was set on starting a blog. After all, I had plenty of experiences and stories to share. Besides, I couldn’t resist having my own platform from which I could pontificate, commiserate, and rant.
As it turns out, my blog hasn’t been as fiery or volcanic after all. Instead, you’ll discover a variety of ideas, tips and sometimes strategies for creating the life you want. Some are based on lessons I’ve learned in my own experiences, and others from research, the news or experiences of others. In any case, my goal is the same: to encourage you to open your mind to the possibility that you can have a happier and more fulfilling life.
If you’re willing you can visualize, focus and eventually do the things that lead to what you want. Now I’m a widow. My four kids are bright and happy adults, and one of them gave me three great grandkids who are adults now as well. I don’t have all the answers, but I am willing to be your companion as we both explore what works for us as we claim our power and embrace happiness. Be sure to connect with me on social media
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