Life is a series of ups and downs. You travel over many mountains, through deserts, valleys and plains.
My memories of childhood hold many of those ups and downs. Our family consisted of 2 boys and 6 girls. Personally I don't know how one woman could raise that many children and have them all turn out fine! But my Momma did just that. She was a tiny little lady with a will of iron. A true red head! My father was a hard worker and expected the same of his family.
However he was an alcoholic and like most people with this disease there were many times when he spent every penny, leaving Mom with no food in the house. Many times we went to bed hungry. She did the best she could and she held us together.
I know my childhood has affected my life. I am very over weight and I refuse to go hungry to lose it! I've been married 3 times. Both divorces tore me to piece but like my Momma I hung on and I raised 4 wonderful children before marrying my wonderful husband.
I worked very hard all my life. First as a child in the cotton fields of Arkansas and then as a cashier in a store. I drove an 18 wheel truck for quite a while. When I turned 50 I became disabled and had to quit work.
Now I am in the last phase of my life. I live with my hubby in Kentucky and thanks to the internet, I have a wonderful pair of friends. They are Denny and Ness Baker. They help to make my life so much easier. If I could have one dream answered it would be to come to Wales and meet these awesome people.
By Marylou Peck, Kentucky
Last Modified on: 05-12-2018