Circumstances in one's life often are not what we expect or see coming at all. How life has changed for our family this year with the passing of my husband, Bob Torchia, in March of 2012.
So here I am in December reciting daily the mantra I have shared with literally thousands from first graders to seniors, hoping and praying, I too can live up to those simple ten two little words:
IF IT IS TO BE IT IS UP TO ME!
So! What comes next as Sondra moves into 2013 and beyond? Ideas are appearing on the horizon, opportunities are knocking, train rides loom ahead. There are friends,old and new to visit, places to see, museums and cities await! Hopefully new audiences will appear.
Maybe a bit of review is in order. I am an educator with over 30 years in the classroom with a BA in Elementary Ed. and MA in Special Ed. How do a couple of flat landers from Kansas end up in the Ozark Mountains where roads go up and down, round and round? Bob and I were married 44 years; proud parents of a son and daugher, grandparents to seven soon to be eight, and four great grandchildren. We owned and operated Torchia's Ace Hardware in Oswego, KS, closing it in1986. When our son left for college Bob and I packed up and moved to the Ozarks. The first ten years in Eureka Springs I taught school and Bob was manager of the gift shops at the Great Passion Play. After my retirement from public education I joined the University of Arkansas Continuing Education department as the On-Site Coordinator for Elderhostel. When Bob retired a few years later he joined me and we escorted Elderhostel travel programs for the U of A. Oh, how we both loved meeting folks from all over the United States and Canada.
Throughout my life, my passion has led me to develope a wide cast of characters and to make friends across the country. "Sondra and Friends" will introduce you to a few of the women from the pages of history and in the circle of my experiences that have touched my life.
Please join my blog as a follower and drop me a note. Friends old and new,
Thanks to you ALL!
Sincerely,
Sondra Sue Torchia
Dear Sondra
ReplyDeleteMy condolences on the loss of your husband last March. I have spoken many times over the years of your outstanding performance as a telephone operator bringing history alive for my guests at the Crescent hotel in Eureka Springs. I look forward to hearing more from your blogging adventure!
Maggie Spilner/Walkforallseasons
Looking forward to reading. Love the photos.
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteI am one of the fortunate students of Mrs. Torchia, and dare I say she was my "favorite" teacher all those years ago..I am so sorry for the loss of your husband. But I know what you are made of and you will be fine. Carry on, and hold your head high! Look forward to reading about your next adventure!
ReplyDeleteDebbie (Hostetler) Hoppes, Parsons, Ks