Welcome!
I have always been composing sentences in my head: descriptions of scenes, relationships, and experiences. I just never had the courage to put them anywhere but in a personal journal. I was afraid of revealing myself as a fraud (I’m not a real writer!) or hurting someone’s feelings (sorry, Mom, in advance). I spent most of my professional life writing memos, policy position papers and reports. Not the type of writing I had in mind. Sometime after I turned 50 I realized that I wasn’t so afraid (no, thankfully my mother didn’t die, I think I finally made peace with the risk). I began to write in a real way, with the intention of sharing it. My kids signed me up for my first writing workshop, as a retirement gift, and I have been plugging away at it since (almost three years now– time flies!)
So, I am writing this blog to provide a space to put my reflections on growing up in Brooklyn in the ‘60s and ‘70s as part of an extended Jewish family. I think there are some stories to tell. If they are only of interest to my family, at least this will be an efficient way to share them!
My intention is to post one story or essay per week. Some of my writing moves beyond memories of childhood, and focuses on current family relationships or experiences. Hopefully either way it will resonate with you. I welcome your feedback.
Let’s see how it goes.
Oh, one disclaimer: these are my memories and perceptions. I have done some research to ensure historical accuracy (For instance, The Godfather opened in March of 1972, you’ll see why that is relevant in a story I will post in the future), but memory is a funny thing and I’ll leave it at that. Family members, please feel free to share your take on the events described.
Good for you. After writing everyday for 30+ years, im on a hiatus. Good luck. I bookmarked your blog and look forward to reading it.
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I’m so happy for you and look forward to reading your stories. You’ve inspired me to start writing!
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Good for you Linda. I’m so happy for you that you are doing this. Let your creativity fly…
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This made me smile a very broad smile! Count me in as a reader!
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I cannot wait to re live our past. With your excellent memory this is going to be special.
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So great, Linda! Can’t wait to read your essays.
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Best Wishes! I applaud you!
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i am so gladi will be able to share yourstories as i miss yourom so much at banyan springs
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Way to go Linda! Looking forward to reading your blog!
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I expect that this blog is, and will continue to be, a great gift to yourself, your loved ones (especially Dan and Leah) and anyone with whom you may shares crayons.
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You made me smile, Rich. Thank you! I have fond memories of sharing crayons. Was it Mrs. Schnitzer for art?
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Kudos to you Linda! I admire your courage.
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Linda, this is wonderful! Having embarked on my own personal passion, I know how scary it is to put yourself out there. It is, however, SO worth it! I have never been happier. I look forward to seeing your work!
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Dear Sunshine,
Lovely read. Put me back in time.
Great photo rather familiar.
Love,
Auntie
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Thanks, Auntie
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I almost forgot my experiences with my eyes and the long subway ride to the city. I enjoyed reading your thoughts. Thank you
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So excited, can’t wait to read what you post!
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Thanks, Debra! Hope you enjoy!
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Linda, you have made it clear for such a long time that writing is your passion. I do indeed look forward to reading writings on your part that reflect the essence of who you are inside. I know that your depth and intelligence and yes, humor, will be apparent to all reading your blog with every entry that you post. Best of luck to you. Your fans, including me, are excited for you!
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Great Linda!!! I look forward to reading each week. My best wishes to you!!!
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Hi, I am Ryan’s mom – in-law, Annaliese’s mom, and just the little I read is fascinating. This is my type of reading! I also read one small piece that Feige’s (sp ) wrote. I am anxious to read more. Good luck and keep writing. I am super enthralled in the WW11 Era and around that time. I also appreciate 50-60’s. (I graduated H S. 1967). Also, captivated with Jewish life/family. One,author I read yrs. Ago was all of ChaimPotok, Golda Maier (sp), others. I look forward to your writings!
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Thanks, Joyce. Thrilled to have you reading. By the way, I loved Chaim Potok’s books! I think I’ve read them all.
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Now I finally figured out how to comment. Only hope I can learn to send. But I love that you are writing and enjoy all the blogs even though I haven’t always been able to send my comments
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Actually you’ve been quite successful lately getting your comments to me! I’m glad you figured it out, though.
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Hi, I research the history of jewish family Baksht/Bakst/Bakszt ie jews who have their primary roots in the shtetl of Bakshty ( modern Belarus not far from Ivye). Could you tell me any facts for your branch of the Bakst family ( to maybe connect it with the other Baksts from Ivye). I have some information for the period up to 1917.
Thanks a lot
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I agree with your points, excellent post.
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Thanks for sharing your experience.
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