Of All the People in the World to Be... I Am Glad that... I Am Me!

"Hi, my name is Effie. What's your name? I'm 5 and I'll soon be 6. How old are you? Come along with me as I peek into the future by looking at my past. I know that sounds backwards. Read my story and you will be just as surprised as I am when I see how many things I have learned since I was 1 year old. I still can't believe how much I know! I have a test for you. Don't worry it's not a hard test. All you have to do is think of things you have learned over time...things like counting numbers, reciting the alphabet or tying your shoes. Remember how you practiced and practiced until you got it just like you wanted? Wow, what a great feeling! I hope you have as much fun as I'm having! Bye for now and I'll see you inside." Trudie, born and raised in Connecticut, still calls the Nutmeg State home. The oldest of three children, she remains close to her siblings. Always a good student, her writing ability became evident at an early age. For years she ignored this gift and expressed her creative talents in other ways. Today, along with additional interests, writing is a favorite pursuit. Her extensive interaction with a diverse demographic, children, handicapped and elderly in particular, has provided wonderful insight and perspective into segments of our population sometimes misread. It is from this position her creations embody an innocence and beauty found only in the young and young at heart.