Personal Childhood Web

My grandmother( Maggie Sturdivant):  was a great influence in my life. I must say, it wasn't really about what she said, but it was the example she displayed, in front of us ( entire family). She loved God, and she dedicated her life to serving in the church, and serving others. When someone was ill, you would see her in the kitchen, cutting carrots, potatoes, chicken and everything needed to make a delicious homemade chicken soup. She kept our family thriving as one unit, by planning yearly reunions, family dinners, easter egg hunts, and summer barbecues.  We loved christmas season in my grandmother's house! She baked candy cane cookies, and cakes from scratch. Although she had very little money, we all( 16 grandchildren) received house slippers, gloves, and a hat for christmas. She was a woman who represented peace, and prayer was the weapons she used. My grandfather was not the easiest person, to get along with;but, she treated him with love and respect; and she spent a large portion of her life, serving him. When I was sixteen, my grandmother passed away. I miss her tremendously, and I regret I didn't get to copy some of her delicious recipes.  Unfortunately, I do not have any pictures of her, but I found a clip art, that remindes me of her. As a result of watching my grandmother display loyalty, respect and love to others, I was able to pull from those experiences, later; and I too began to serve in the church, and help others in need.

 

 

 

My father( Courtney Travis): was and still is a very strong disciplinary. When he set rules, he expected them to be followed; and if they were ignored, there were consequences! My father was very much invovled in our education: assisted with  home work, participated in parent/teacher conferences, and made surprise visits to our schools( unfortunate for my brother). He was a provider and made sure we had what we needed; even if it meant working long hours. My father enjoyed taking us to the theatre, drive-in movies, drum corp competitions and parades. Unfortunately, my father's discipline strategies consisted of spankings, constant corrections and ridicule. He set a tone in the home  that stated" I love you when you are good, but if you make a mistake, I don't". As a result of this type of discipline, we all suffered from low self esteem, and we spent much of our teen years, attempting to please him. I find myself still trying to please him today! My brother and sister decided it was easier, to withdraw from him altogether. Because of my father, I learned the importance of education, but I constantly fight, to avoid treating my children as my father treated me. I want them to know, it's ok to make mistakes!!!!! WE USUALLY LEARN FROM OUR  MISTAKES! My father did teach me the importance of education. 

 

 

My mother( Margaret Travis): had and still has a sweet and caring spirit. She balanced our home in a sense, that she brought balance to my father's way of discipline. My mom was loving and very affectionate. She had/has a great sense of humor and we find ourselves lying in her bed laughing all of the time!  My mom was easy to talk too, and she tried to see others perspectives. I felt such a great sense of comfort and acceptance with my mom. She did not force us to do anything, but she would offer wisdom to what ever circumstance we faced. My mother made all of us( three children) feel special, and like we were the only one. My mother would yell! When pressured, communication skills consisted of yelling and sreaming. I love my mom, and even now she is my best friend! through experiences with my mother, I learned how to show unconditional love to my own childlren.  

 

 

 

My sister( Alicia Travis): is one of my best friends today;however growing up was rough. I was the middle child, and  I often felt like my parents, liked my sister more than me. We fought often, but we still managed to work things out . My sister, had a tough disposition; which came from our father's constant corrections. We are very close now. When I have issues, I call her to talk, and get advice. We are very different, but we definitely compliment one another. I've learned how to forgive others and keep my heart free from grudges, through the interactions, I had with my sister.This is a picture of my sister(pink shirt-17), our nephew Courtney 3rd( age 3), and myself( red-age 20) 

 

The last two people, I'd like to add to my support system, are my two sons( Robert-19,Isreal-4). My children, give me the strength to keep striving, despite opposition. Because they are so far apart, they both have experienced the only child syndrome. My older son is in his second year of college; however he helps me by taking his little brother to speech and occupation therapy. If I need a sitter, he is willing to care for his little brother(if I let him know early). Sometimes, he just comes over to hang out and watch a movie. I am proud of his accomplishments, and my desire is to be an example, for both of my children to follow. Isreal is busy, but the fact that he is still here( lots of medical challenges) is a blessing. He attempts to help with house cleaning and he even tries to help cook meals.