Being born in '31 was during the Depression and in my earlier youth World War II took place - so it was not the best of times, and yet I don't recall ever having experiences that were a burden.

I was always kind of naïve, and really needed to be given some direction.

When knowledge is scant or conflicting, folklore takes over.

Stop making sense. Logic is predictable. Think differently.

The first important [step] one was going to school. There was an advantage as there was a one-room schoolhouse that was within walking distance of my home. I went there being very shy, but I fit in quickly, and I was nurtured by a very dedicated and caring teacher, Magdalen George, who we referred to as Miss George. She was my teacher for a full seven years.

There was a certain amount of discipline, I think; my parents wanted to be sure that I was not just sitting around doing nothing.

It was mainly a growing farm, although we did have chickens and a few animals, but I did help to some degree with that. I have to say that it was not my favorite association.I did what I was asked to do.