After Colin gave me my very own by-line I suddenly dropped out of sight. I have sent in a few "Wanda's World" articles telling a little about what happened in my world but I don't think they made much sense - not even to me. But for a come back let's go back in time to the early 60's (yes, I'm that old).
We live in what's called the Tennessee River Valley, near a large lake between to hydro-electric dams. This area is ideal for lots of fishing and water sports, but there is also a lot of large barge transport traffic.
The following event happened to me and my extended family during an outting on the lake. Early one Saturday we met for a family day of fun on the lake, several speed boats for skiing, and several fishing boats to gather the goods for a fish fry. This was to be my first day of "learning to ski" even though I wanted nothing to do with getting in the water. I was happy just to ride and be a spotter. But my dad and uncle dragged me into the water, pulled me out until I was supported by my life jacket, and attached the skis to my feet. Then the "go" signal was given.
I was, and am, deathly afraid of having no ground under me, not being able to feel my feet on the firm and solid. I was scared of what might be in the water with me; 50 lb. catfishes, snakes, etc. I just did not want to do this. I'd hated swimming lessons too. No water over my head! "Coward" of the family! This could not be since I was the oldest of the grand children and had an example to set. "GO"
So off down the river I went, for maybe 20 feet, feeling the whole time as if my body was being ripped apart, but afraid to let go. I never got up on the skis, and I have been in severe back pain ever since.
A few months later the PE teacher in school made things worse, but that is for part 2.
(Written by Wanda, posted by Lee: Wanda is in rehab recovering from a broken knee: no more skydiving)
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