PERSONAL CHILDHOOD WEB

My Grandfather -  "Big Daddy"- This man has been the "main" man in my life.  He is more like my father than a grandfather.  He has always been there to support me in ANYTHING.  He instilled in me the importance of education, having a voice, being inquisitive and fearing God.  He also demonstrated that it is okay to excel above the status quo or the "norm".  I love this man so much.  I am grateful to still have him in my life. This year, in November, he will celebrate his 80th birthday!!!  My grandfather was an example of charity. He believed in helping individuals from all backgrounds.  I inherited my grandfather's ability to infuse humor in every situation, giving to others in need and the ability to advocate on behalf of others effectively.

My Grandmother - "Granny"- OMG...I can not begin to describe the many qualities that this lady helped to mold and shape into my life as a child. She demonstrated to me how a woman could maintain a career, while supporting her husband's preaching ministry, caring and nurturing her family and being a pillar of strength in the community. My grandmother has always made me feel like I was the ONLY person in the world.  I have always been priority in her life.  She has always been there to provide her support.  We still talk on the phone, at least, once a week. Today, I'm so glad that my grandmother instilled in me the importance of valuing family and working hard.  Today, I'm a hard worker.  Sometimes, I work too much, but I always manage to have time to stop and recollect myself and energy.  Many people say that I have a "sweet" personality.  I know this comes from my grandmother.  My grandmother was nice to everyone she met, regardless of their race, creed, origin or socioeconomic status.

Aunt Roy Ann- "Aunt Runie"- Aunt Runie was my second mom.  I hung out with her A LOT! I guess you can say I was her shadow! She taught me how to be practical, straight forward and creative.   Aunt Runie cared for me whenever I was not with my mama.  She looked out for me and always kept me safe.  Today, I definitely have her sense of creativity.  I enjoy arranging flower arrangements.  I am also known for speaking my mind effectively. Anybody can "run off' at the mouth, but it takes courage to speak from the heart.

Uncle Wayne -  Uncle Wayne was Aunt Runie's husband. I spent a great deal of my childhood with the two of them.  Before they were married, I was the "third" wheel on many of their dates! LOL! (My grandmother was a smart woman!) Uncle Wayne was loving, caring of protective of me.  He always listened to me.  He always took time to let me explain my thoughts or ideas.  He never gave a "quick" answer.  He took time to research and give me the best possible advice and guidance.  Uncle Wayne demonstrated the ability to not judge. He believed in giving everyone a fair chance.  He believed in believing in one's God-given abilities.  He always supported me in my endeavors and ideas.  Through him, I learned what peace feels like. Throughout my life, I always strive to look at people for who they are and not what "I" think they may be.  I am not judgement, as we are all humans; therefore capable of making "many" mistakes.

My Mother - Catherine-  My mother has always been a source of love, strength and guidance. My mother taught me that the choices you make today will impact your future. That was mom philosophy about ANYTHING (finances, friends, peers, life decisions, etc)  My mother made always dressed me "to the nines". She sewed those big, poofy, fluffy dresses with a huge "can-can"! LOL!!  Yes, I guess you can say that I always looked like a little porcelain doll! Because of my mother, I am quite fond of interior design.  I have also remembered her philosophy.  It has helped me to become the lady that I am today.

I'm extremely blessed to have these individuals in my life.  With the exception of Uncle Wayne, I talk to each of them on a weekly basis. Uncle Wayne passed away, unexpectedly, in March of 2000.  My Aunt Runie remarried last year in 2010.