I was born on February 10 in Jefferson City, Mo.I am the youngest of five children. The day that my parents brought me home from the hospital, my brother said, "Really Mom?" "Another one?"
When I was ten years old, my family moved from the Bootheel of Missouri to the Ozarks. My father was in Heaven, my mother, not so much. We quickly grew to love the hills and beauty of the area.
My Dad is my hero for many reasons. My Dad was the only member of his family to graduate from High School and from college. He worked hard and was a great provider for our family. He was a very generous man who loved his family and country.
When I grew up, I knew that I wanted to be a teacher. My father instilled in me the joy of teaching others. He was my first teacher who made a difference in my life. Another influence in my career decision was my third grade teacher, Mrs. Rakestraw. She loved projects and created memories with each one. I hope one day my students will feel the same about me.