Day 7

I only had a paid babysitter once in my life.   

Across the street and down two houses (literally 50 yards away), lived my maternal grandmother, Mama Willis.  She was at our house most days, and for most of the day on those days.  My mom and dad both worked full time.  She would cook lunch for my dad (and mom when she was able to come home for lunch).  She obviously watched after me and made sure that I was safe, fed, and somewhat entertained.

On certain days of the week, she took me with her to her “meetings.”  These were gatherings at church with other senior adults.  I loved these times!  I got showered with lots of hugs and attention.  From when I was in pre-school through the summers of my elementary years, I would go and listen to their stories, their struggles, and of course, their adulation.

Mama Willis taught me how to love friends of all ages.  She also taught me how to shell purple hull peas. There’s no telling how many bushels we put away.  But my favorite times were when she was watching her "show."  As the World Turns was the backdrop for many an extended back-scratch as I snuggled up with her on the couch.

I didn't grow up hooked on soap operas, but I did grow up hooked on love.