“I lived in the country in Barnwell, Alabama and had to walk almost three miles to the bus stop and catch the Foley bus to go to school in Fairhope. We lived on red dirt roads and had to walk through the tracks the cars made. Our shoes would get so clogged up we could hardly make it. Those were rough times. My daddy would tell us that if we saw a car to run and go off in the woods because some people are evil. Sometimes the hills would be so high and muddy. We were poor back then but it taught me to strive and be something. I had two pairs of jeans, wear one and wash the other. I was the oldest and a lot of time I had to stay home and work while my brother and sister went to school. Whenever dad needed help, I had to help and I worked hard. I hauled water and wood and still have scars on my shoulders from hauling wood to start fires. It makes you strong. Our kids have it way too easy today.”