This is a story about a wonderful woman with a heart of gold. A woman who is a hardworking dreamer filled with kindness, helping hands and a heart that accepts all those she meets. Especially the children she saw on a daily basis. Although she only saw them for thirty minutes a day, the joy she brought them and the joy they brought her was evident by the smile on her face and the happiness in her eyes.
I met Annette at Williams Township Elementary School more than a few years ago. I was a special education teacher and she worked in our cafeteria. Annette always wore a smile and had a kind word for each child who came through her line. And, since she was the cashier, she had an opportunity to talk to each child who bought a single milk or a whole meal. She knew their names, and always had an encouraging word for them.
Annette was very good with my students and never treated them any differently than the others. In fact, she knew just the right things to say to them. Often times, her kind words helped to turn their behaviors around. But the story does not end there…
About a year ago, I noticed Annette was posting photographs on Facebook. The pictures were beautiful, especially her bird pictures. Although I am not much of a photographer or maybe I should claim not a photographer at all; I noticed a beauty, that kept drawing me in with each new picture. Annette’s photos kept improving, getting better with each click of her camera. Little did I know at the time, that photography was a dream Annette kept tucked in her heart for a long time.
I believe that every person should be able to live their dreams. I believe that when you are kind, gentle, accepting of all people especially children, and filled with a love for all creatures, your dreams should come true. Annette, you are all of the above. Your smile, your caring ways, your talent, and humble life make you a winner. I am so proud of your efforts! I know that your photography debut will be a hit. I will be there to cheer you on. You earned it and deserve my friend. Congratulations!
PS: Keep the dream going, your photos make a difference to all those that see them!
My name is Cynthia Jean DeLuca. I am a wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. I believe in following your dreams and never giving up! Helping others is very important to me, for when we help others, we help ourselves. It is my hope to make a difference in the lives of children and grown-ups. My hobbies are writing, quilting and painting. I am a novice at all three but, enjoy them immensely. I grew up on a farm with no indoor plumbing and no heat in our upstairs. I love life and have a very strong faith. Working on inspirational short stories for grown- ups. Love to speak on topics that touch my heart.
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