against me learning to read fluently. In fact, experts warned I might never read at a grade-school level, let alone complete college. But my mom—a dedicated Texas educator—refused to let a diagnosis define my future. To ensure I had every tool needed to succeed, she became a reading specialist and a pioneer in special education, turning daily tears and 15-minute reading struggles into a lifelong passion for books. By the end of middle school, I had read over 1,000 books—proving her favorite piece of wisdom true: "If you can read, you can do anything." Here is the story of how my mom's unfailing commitment transformed my life.
Throwback Thursday: Learning to Read
owing it back to an essential truth from the archives: the goal shouldn't just be teaching a child to read, but teaching them to become a reader. 📚 Excerpt: Reading encompasses far more than just finishing a story in a school textbook—it opens up a lifelong world of imagination, learning, and growth. Taking time to cultivate a genuine love for books is one of the greatest gifts we can ever pass down to the next generation. Looking back on these thoughts from 2007 reminds me of how timeless that mission truly is!
Throwback Thursday: The Importance of Reading
From a reluctant six-year-old to a lifelong reader, I discovered that reading is the great equalizer and the essential foundation for every hobby and adventure.
Throwback Thursday: How I Got into Writing…
Today's throwback Thursday explores my journey from a kid who would do anything to get out of writing to 30 years of blogging.
Response to a Reader on Dysgraphia
I received a comment below from a reader. It raises a some good issues and questions. I would like to devote a post to it. I have re-posted the the entire comment. and will address questions at the end. Hello Dee, I do not know if I’m doing this right, but here it goes. This … Continue reading Response to a Reader on Dysgraphia
Another English Rant
Me and Billy Joe Bubba Bob (insert random name here) .... This is a mistake I hear from otherwise well-educated people. That phrase absolutely drives me bonkers. Why? First, it is grammatically incorrect. It should be: Billy Joe Bubba Bob and me/I ..... Second, it sounds self-centered. Always list the other person first. In grammar … Continue reading Another English Rant
TDZ Retrospective: Commas, Diagramming and Other Rants About English
Originally posted December 15, 2007. After eight years look for another English rant coming soon. The other day The Big Guy was reading my blog and informed me that I needed a comma for some reason or another. This lead to lively and humorous dialogue about my not needing commas and semi-colons. TBG that it … Continue reading TDZ Retrospective: Commas, Diagramming and Other Rants About English
