My Personal Childhood Web

Wanda (Mama) & Ronald (Daddy): My parents

They are reason I'm here today, literally. My parents have been married for 25 years and counting.  As a child, my parents influenced me to be who ever I wanted to be as long as it was a positive asset to society. They taught me the true meaning of family and introduced me to spirituality. When I would steer to the left, they were there to get me back on track, quickly. They were both solid and consistent. They made decision together about everything that was related to parenting. I always felt safe, secure and valued. Today I still hold the values that they instilled in me as a child. I am independent, strong willed, and joyful. I understand the value of a dollar and the work it takes to accomplish goals, I understanding things in life are not given to you but earned. My favorite memory as a child of my Daddy would be when he would come to my school in his Army uniform and all of my peers would "ooohhh and aaahhh" over him because he was a Soldier. As for my Mama, my favorite memory is when she would comb my hair in the morning for school, our conversations were great!   

Ellen (Motha) and Elizabeth (Grandma): My maternal and paternal grandmothers  

Thinking about Motha and Grandma brings me happiness and sadness. In 2008, Grandma (78 years old) lost her battle against diabetes and in 2010 Motha (96 years old) was called home by the good Lord above. I found a quote that best describes my childhood memories of the both of them: "The reason grandchildren and grandparents get along so well is that they have a common enemy." -Sam Levenson I think this perfectly describes my relationship with the both of them as I was growing up. I would run to either of the two when I was having difficulties with my parents, no matter what the situation. They both would listen to all I had to say, never took sides but always found a way to bring me back down to reality. They loved me unconditionally and supported all of my dreams and goals. I think both Motha and Grandma helped my parents to understand and accept my free spirit. As an adult today I find myself referring to the teaching of my grandmothers before I make a lot of decisions. I find myself still wanting to make them proud, so they can brag to the other grandmothers. I miss the both of them more than words can explain and I have grown to appreciate then even more now that they are gone. I do believe they are still watching over me and guiding me along in this crazy thing we call life. 

Ms. Reeves: My 2nd grade teacher


 In 2nd grade, Ms. Reeves made my parents aware of my difficulty with seeing and the possible connection between my poor grades and my sight. When I was taken to the optometrist, my parents were given a pair of glasses to put on and were told the image they were seeing with the glasses is what my sight was like without glasses; my mama cried. Had it not been for Ms. Reeves and her care, concern and high sense of alertness for me, who knows how long it would have taken for one to realize I needed glasses. After having my glasses, Ms. Reeves then noticed my struggle with math. She arranged to have me enrolled in a supplementary math class during normal school hours, (which I remained in until the 12th grade). After Ms. Reeves discoveries and her immediate plan of action, I soon became an honor roll student and remained one throughout my primary and secondary school years and into college. Even as an adult I still have difficulties with my sight and math, but had it not been for Ms. Reeves I wouldn't have the confidence know in knowing that I am smart, I just need extra help when it comes to math and extra eyes to help me see :)