“Add more olives for Sam” was scribbled across the bottom of the yellowing potato salad recipe card. The flea market find delighted my husband, Tom, who enjoys experimenting with vintage recipes.

 

The notation itself intrigued me. I cannot resist anything with printed or scribbled words. Whether it is an old letter, vintage book or the wrapper off a new roll of toilet paper, I love to read because words connect us to our world.

 

My teachers did not have to struggle to teach me to read. I waited impatiently for my first day of school because I knew instinctively that books would take me on fantastic adventures.There was a natural transition from reading to wanting to write my own words. The first attempt was a mystery short story when I was 10 years old. Years later, I am still stringing together words and the joy has never lessened.

 

Is there an aspiring writer in you? Unleash your creativity. Start with what you know. What better story is there to tell than the tale of your life history?

 

Do not be intimidated by that blank piece of paper or computer screen. Just pick a happy memory in your life and write as if you were sending a letter to a friend. Describe the event, the weather, who was there and how you felt that day. Before you know it, you will have your first story done. Make time to write. It not only exercises your brain, but more importantly, it is a legacy to leave your family.

 

On the shelf next to the flea market recipe box is my mother’s high school cookbook and gram’s favorite cookbook. The books are worn, the bindings are loose, but in those pages are my family’s scribbled notes, connecting me to my heritage. Like the unknown Sam, I too, like extra olives in my mom’s potato salad.

 

Check out the Oasis website for writing classes and learn about our Intergenerational Tutoring program, a volunteer opportunity to help children who are struggling with reading.