About

Hello World!

My name is Barbara Swafford.

Is what I write credible? You decide.

Who am I? I’m a female baby boomer who has always believed in living life. I remember when President John F Kennedy was shot, and when Neil Armstrong walked on the moon. I remember black and white television sets, and “45″ records that were played on a phonograph, and later, 8 track tapes. I remember when the first instamatic camera came out, and learning typing on an old Royal manual typewriter (IBM later came out with an electric one). I remember watching the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show. I remember the twist, and the limbo. Bandstand was a favorite music/dance show on TV, as was, Where the Action Is. I remember the Vietnam War, and the hippies in Haight-Ashbury . I remember when computers had a room of their own, and the only thing you stuck in your ear, was a Q-Tip. I remember when swearing was taboo, and nudity in any type of media, was unheard of. I remember when playing games meant a game of Tag, Hide and Go Seek or ice skating on our grandparent’s frozen pond (which we first had to shovel the snow off of). I remember not having a car when I turned 16, and not even getting one, until I had a job of my own and could afford the payment, insurance and gas. I remember when gas was $0.29 a gallon, and there was penny candy.

I also remember when it was safe to leave your doors unlocked, or walk by yourself, miles down a country road any time of the day or night. I remember when it was safe to hitch hike, and it was safe to leave your car unlocked, and even running. I remember neighbors helping neighbors, whether it was to help build a house, watching each other’s children, or to borrow a cup of sugar. I remember when it was safe for young girls to travel by themselves, and to ask a stranger for help. I remember when you trusted and respected your teachers, policemen, clergy, doctors, and anyone else in authority, and they were addressed by Mr. or Mrs. or Sir or Madam.

I”ve always loved to listen, learn, think, analyze, and expand my knowledge base. I have lots of common sense, and some “book smarts”. After spending many years working for large corporations, mostly in the roles of an Administrative Assistant/Manager, and in purchasing/procurement, and busting through that “glass ceiling”, I became a non traditional age student, and went back to college to earn my Associates degree in Business. My husband and I are self employed, and I now manage our home office.

I’ve learned lots from others, am self taught is some areas, and have also learned from what my Mother called “the school of hard knocks”. (i.e. learning from your mistakes)

I’m a daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and a friend to many. I believe in God, and the power of Prayer.

I’m a kind and giving person, who tries not to be judgmental. I’m a hard worker, and have always been a good employee. I am honest and have high ethics. I’m independent, but try not to be too stubborn. I like routine, but can also be spontaneous, at times. I like things to be tidy, and am constantly finding ways to be more organized. I have lots of compassion and empathy for others, and enjoy lending a helping hand. I love old people, children and animals.

My hobbies and interests, include photography, faux painting, interior decorating, sewing, reading, gardening, road trips, and now, blogging

I prefer to work in a quiet environment, and could be described as an introvert; however, I do enjoy spending time with family and friends. I prefer listening to talking, and prefer “to serve”, rather than “being served”.

I’m frugal to a degree, however, I also believe, “you get what you pay for”. I love bargains, but do buy a few things that I won’t scrimp on, i.e. Nestle’s Chocolate Chips and Starbuck’s Coffee Ice Cream.

I blog, to share with others what I’ve learned. In the beginning, my goal was to have one blog, which I named Observation Mountain. However, during the process of learning how to blog (or create a web log), and journaling my experience, and what I was learning, this blog was born.

In this uncertain world, my hope is to leave a small piece of what I’ve learned, on this “medium” called the “world wide web”, and hopefully benefit others for years to come.