There’s a Meme floating around the Blogosphere to name ten people who are the greatest influence on you, not including God or your family members. I got tagged by Meg and then procrastinated enough that I was also tagged by Raphael and Laura I’ve realized I have to just get a list down and not worry about elaborating too much. Also, I want to point out that I may not mention people who I certainly consider influences.

1)Patricia K. my Russian professor who introduced me to Orthodoxy, taught me to love Slavic literature, music and art, and in a humbling moment for me, agreed to be my Godmother.
2)Charnette. A family friend who has become an honorary aunt, reminded me to enjoy reading and education, provided lots of love and laughter, nurtured a love of baseball and the Beatles.
3)Mrs Mousethief. A lovely friend who has taught me a lot about being Orthodox, being a good mother, etiquette, sweet tea, and all with a wonderful sense of humor
4)Connie N. My boss, mentor and friend. She encourages me in my work environment, honors my mothering skills, enjoys my sense of humor, and tells me often how much I am appreciated. I am honored to work with her
5)Father John. I am truly blessed to have such a wonderful Priest and Spiritual Father. He has taught me about being a Christian, is an eloquent speaker, provided just the right amount of advice, and is an invaluable asset to the Church. Thank you.
6)Nanette. She’s my Godsister, what can I say? A friend who first invited me to Holy Trinity, smiles and laughs with me, and is a comforting presence in my life. She fell in love and moved to Cypress and I miss her dearly
7) My English teachers in High School. Even though I ended up studying History and Literature, I still can recall lessons on Shakespeare, great books, reading for pleasure, and grammar from Mr. Peckler and Stew.
8)Scrapbooking teachers. I’m not naturally artistic, and those teachers who have taught me to enjoy the process of creation and step up my pages have allowed me to grow and change in my pages and to trust my instincts. I’ve been blessed to learn from national celebrities, the scrapbook store owner, fellow students and my scrapbook buddies I meet with regularly. I appreciate all of you.
9)My Blog Friends. I have met so many wonderful people through this online diary of life, and I take something from everyone’s post. I am thankful for those who I have met, and humbled to be in many of your thoughts and prayers.
10)Jeanne. My first boss who took me under her wing when Eddie and I found ourselves expecting Cedric. She gave me hand-me-downs, taught me how to look at a Real Estate contract, and offered friendship and support.

Thank you to everyone who has touched my life, I honestly can say that I learn from everyone who I meet. And, it was hard to not mention my parents, my sister and brother, my beautiful nephews, Cedric and Xavier who have taught me that parenthood is watching your heart walk around outside your body, and most of all Eddie who loves me for who I am, encourages me to be who I can be, and can crack me up with just a look. You are my heart!

Who should I tag? how about Susan Sophia and Arika