'g's Five

The idea is to name the book which is your life. Give your book (your life) a title. Or, if your life were a book what would the title be? Next come the chapters. Some of these chapters will be uglier, funnier, better or worse than others. For each of the time frames listed, try to name that chapter in your life. You don't have to, but if you wanted to expand on the reasoning behind your titles, that would be great. Also, if you have a chapter in your life that isn't represented here, please feel free to add it. I was just trying to keep to the MI-5 format.

Your Book Title - "A Ride with Mr.Toad"








Chapter Titles -

Birth to 5 Years - Small-town Community
I grew up in a small coastal town of South Florida where it seems my family knew everybody. I know we didn't, because many were "snowbirds" coming from all over the Northeast during winter months. But there was such a strong sense of community and belonging there. It was somewhat like South Thomaston seems to be for her natives.

Elementary Years - The Best Ever
For those who grew up in our town, the place was paradise. We often rode our bikes to the beach at the crack of dawn only to return at dusk ... AND NOBODY WORRIED ABOUT OUR SAFETY! I spent most of my early life with the taste of sea salt on my lips and grinning from ear-to-ear.

High School Years - "Anybody Got a Light"
High School was a 'blur' - if you know what I mean. I have many times regretted some of the choices I made back then. Only now am I beginning to put all that into perspective. I recently discovered classmates.com and started learning what has become of some of my schoolmates. I would just say, in many cases "it ain't too pretty".

College Age - A Miracle Has Occurred
I went to 'tech school' to begin a career in the fire service, then started college to increase professional opportunities. Somewhere along the line I grew complacent about education and gave it up. Then at 38 I sensed a calling to change my vocation and start on a new adventure. I went back to school 'full-time' with a wife and 3 kids in tow ("thanks again" Jos), only to discover what "remedial" classes are all about. My first semester didn't even count toward a degree ... I needed the classes just to pass entry exams. But I stuck it out, studied hard, prayed A LOT and "miraculously" graduated from an 'accredited' college.

Present Age - Still On The Ride
Momentum is good and I am right where I want to be! My kids are now grown up and out on their own. I have freedom to pursue the opportunities afforded me at this stage of life. I continue leading and influencing others in a way that is (I believe) very positive. And when I see all of us changing and growing in life ... it feels great!