By Linda Mills Wofford
My early days at Sam Houston Elementary truly were responsible for my fondest memories and friendships.
Since I had a November birthday, I couldn’t attend public first grade, so I attended Jack and Jill first grade. My teacher was Mrs. Meisenheimer, and I remember her vividly. My favorite thing about Jack and Jill was nap time on our colorful mats, and snack time. I can still remember the snacks some people brought – mainly those huge coconut balls in either pink or white. What a vision to behold. My mom wouldn’t buy those for me – too much sugar!!!
After first grade at Jack and Jill, I was ecstatic to go to Sam Houston for 2nd grade. Let the fun, experiences and friendships begin!
Of course, recess was my favorite subject. Being a bit of a tomboy, I loved being competitive with the boys in our class. Lots of racing, kick ball, jump roping and red rover, red rover won’t you come over!!! Oh, and let’s not forget playing jacks in the outdoor corridors. I was in heaven!
Somewhere along the way, probably 4th grade, boys and girls started noticing each other. High school football games, aka Friday Night Lights, became the big event for the entire city to attend. And attend, they did! I remember always attending those games, even in 3rd or 4th grade! Of course, back then, we didn’t entirely watch the game. The boys and girls acted silly, running and chasing each other under the bleachers – totally innocent! There was one particular boy, who will remain nameless, since he became President of the United States, who chased me relentlessly. As he related this story to my son at one of our high school reunions, he said, “your mom totally rejected me back in the Sam Houston Elementary days.” Believe me, my son has told that story over and over, and I am still flattered to this day!!!
Times were so much simpler then. I spent all day riding my bicycle to Wackers or any other place I could think of. As long as I checked in and was home before dark, it was fine. Oh, the good ol days!!!!