I begin this tale o' my life's journey with pleasure, yet with some anxiety.
It is a tale o' woe that ends with a bit o' sunshine.
Though you may shed a tear for me and mine at times
as you read the story of my life,
I hope that you will allow the joyous moments of my life
to enter your heart as well, for there have been many.
It is my goal to eventually write my life journey in poetic format.
'Til then, here is where I jot down some feelings and events of my past.

This Page Is Dedicated To
Johnny, Debbie , Mary, Rhonda, Randy, Ronnie and Ruthi
...In the memory of the Mother that we share...
And to my step brothers Rick and Bobby.

Written In Tribute To
The lives of any man, woman or child who has felt the pain of
...Child Abuse, Domestic Violence or Sexual Abuse...
God Bless and Choose JOY!

My Mother
Anna Mae Cox
Age 18
Photo dated May 1954

A Bit O' My Mother
Dedicated to the children of unwed mothers.

This is my favorite picture of my Mother.
Of course, it makes sense that it would be.
She is young, beautiful...and full of life.
You cannot see, but I am in this picture too...in her womb.
I was born five months after this photo was taken.

I was born to an 18 year old unwed mother.
As far as I know, she lived at home at the time of my birth.
She lived in Sugar Grove, Ohio and gave birth to me at the
Fairfield County Hospital located in Lancaster, Ohio.

Mom,
I thank you for giving me life.
Though it has not always been filled with roses,
I know that my birth brought you a bit o' sunshine.
I know that I was special to you.
I know that you loved me oh so much...
...even when I was breaking your heart.
Know that I am sorry for the pain I caused you.
And that you are forgiven for the pain that you caused me.
You loved me as only MY Mother could love...
I return that love as only YOUR Daughter can love.
Ruthi