Well, the day has arrived. My first column is in the Springfield News Sun. I called my editor and found that it is not yet online, but he will get it there. So, I'm copying the column here for you to read if you so desire.
Thanks again for the encouragement.
Words and Wishes Ever since I found out that I would be writing this column, two trains of thought ride the rails of my brain. The first locomotive has to do with my love for words and wordplay. I remember many years ago, my dad’s sister describing one of the family traits. She referred to the Johnson’s Roman nose. It’s relatively recently that I’ve come to wonder, “Did she mean “roamin’ nose?” I wear a size 11-1/2AAAA shoe. If it weren’t for my feet, it would be quite a feat to stay erect. The size of the proboscis would pull me over flat on my face if not balanced by my generous foundation. If someone doesn’t read well, what does the pharmacist do to distinguish between a medication that is taken orally and one that is aurally administered? And, why is the word “dyslexic” so hard to read? After I finished the classes necessary to teach in Ohio, but before I received the required piece of paper from the Department of Education, I was given a letter written by the head of the Education Department at the University. I loved telling people, at least those not interviewing me for a job, that I was certifiable and had a letter from a Doctor to prove it! The second part of the thought train has to do with my desire for a number of years to write a column. The logo on the side of the engine says, “Be careful what you wish for you just might get it!” A couple of previous experiences have proven that caution is necessary. I’ve always wanted to be on Jeopardy. I’ve taken and passed the test three times. A few months after I had passed the test the second time, I taped an episode since I was not going to be home to view the episode. I watched the tape, fast forwarding through the commercials until I recognized someone from my tryout. I rewound the tape anticipating that I might be able to find myself at the back of the room, third person from the left, behind the guy with the plaid shirt on. Nope! I found myself full frame, evidently as they announced I had passed the test. I was hidden only by the chyron display of cities where Jeopardy would visit soon. That commercial has allowed me to honestly state that I was on Jeopardy more often than Ken Jennings. When we moved to Urbana, Champaign County, Ohio eleven years ago, I was able to attempt another dream. I’d always wanted an older house to fix up. This seemed perfect with Champagne tastes and a beer budget. I/we could do the work as finances allowed. Strangely as finances have been available time has been at a premium or vice versa. I suppose, once again, my wish has come true. I finally got my Champaign budget. I just had been spelling it incorrectly!
Thank you all, so very much, for the positive comments. Yes, Jen, it is a little nerve racking. I'm not sure if it's worse to think strangers are reading this or people who really know and care about me.
In the actual newspaper, there was an accompanying article which "introduced" me and shared some of my life experiences.
For you, I'll joke, maybe later I'll fit it into a column. To look at my resume reminds me of the song Sinatra sang: "I've been a puppet, a pirate, a pauper, a poet…" I've been a Realtor, a Teacher, a Engineering Specialist, a Bartender, and a Diaper Service Driver to name a few!
And, I need to confess. I inadvertently posted a previous draft. It was one close to the end, but still, not what actually was in print.
How exciting! How did you get the column assignment? It has to be fun (and maybe a little scary) to know that friends and family are reading what you write.
Congratulations and well-done!
----------- Jen
Posts: 2868 | Location: Ohio | Registered: March 11, 2004
Personal Healthy Habits Challenge - 10/1 to 12/31/08: 1. Exercise: Get back to consistently working out 3-5 X week. 2. Food: Get back to consistently preparing healthy lunches for the week with increased veg servings. 3. Behavior: Reduce intake of sweets.
Posts: 7298 | Location: Rehoboth Beach, DE | Registered: March 12, 2004
