journaling prompt #1

What lessons did you take as a child that have carried over into your adult life?

We were not super scheduled children as so many are these days. I assume that this was due both to financial constraints as well as inability to do many things with five kids to involve in different activities.

Mom did force me, however, to take piano lessons for several years although I don't recall exactly how many years I participated in them. I took lessons from Elaine for several years and then continued with LaFaye Hamilton for several more years. I remember dreading piano lessons although I think it is more likely that I dreaded LaFaye's dogs. I quit even though Mom didn't want me to. And she was right. As an adult, looking back, I wish I had continued with lessons for a few more years. I feel pretty confident playing most of the hymns. I sometimes like to sit down and play them and find it oddly relaxing. I have been successful for several years in not letting others know that I play the piano and have rarely had to play in the presence of others. Then I moved into the Englewood ward where very few people play the piano. I now have to play frequently in Relief Society. It makes me nervous, and I often make mistakes. But no one cares. They are just glad that someone can play--even if sometimes it is only the top hand.

I also recall taking tap lessons from Darlene Stoker. I enjoyed it, but every time I think about that pink pepto bismol outfit with the feathers I get a bit queasy. Angela Anderson and JaNae Webb were in my class. I can still do the stomp hop step flap step. It is one sweet move.

In middle school I was on the volleyball team for two years. I loved it. I played as the setter simply because I was too short to play anything else. I still have the t-shirts although I haven't worn them for ages. I still enjoy playing. I think playing volleyball has led me to want to maintain an active lifestyle.