They Did Things Together no one thought they would do!

Welcome reader! Meet Lea Phyllis and read about her life as it unfolded in the early to late 1950s. Learn about the people that helped shape her outlook on life and those that taught her how to survive. Lea's story will run you through many emotions; you will get angry, indignant, laugh, cry, gasp and smile. Born and raised in West-by-God-Virginia, her life experiences forced her to become a self-sufficient, strong woman at a very young age. Lea was a child forced to grow up too quickly. You will find her story fascinating, enlightening, alarming, and life-affirming. You will meet her family and see their impacts on her young life. You get to meet her son, albeit for a brief moment or two. Read about Lea almost losing her life at the hands of her stepfather, and a few short memories later read about Lea threatening that same man's life to protect the lives of her mother, brothers, and son. Their little family of five would have perished if they had not stayed together, helped each other, and protected each other. Find recipes within the pages of this short memoir for colds and sore throats. Find images of schoolhouses, a pony express building, and a potter's field. Find out how Lea's life intertwined with these places and things. Also, find out how Lea's mom used cow manure to save her foot. See an aerial view of the actual homestead where Lea spent most of her childhood. From that same aerial view, see how far away Lea's neighbor lived and realize how important it was for them to protect each other. For the purpose of protection, they had an arsenal from which to choose. At a time in America's history when bobcats and bears roamed the woods surrounding their homestead, it was imperative that they have the means to protect themselves. And they did have the means; Lea could shoot a groundhog in the head from 100 yards away. As Lea's daughter, I loved visiting the old homestead. We went there many times during my childhood, and every time was comforting to me. Bessie always welcomed us with a warm smile and great food. Lea was an inspiration to many people. Hopefully, she will leave you feeling inspired too. This collection of memories is the inaugural edition of the writings from CherrieAlesia.