Wofford, Linda Mills

Midland people – “You could stir ’em with a stick”

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Written by: Linda Mills Wofford

When I arrived at Univ. of Texas, fall of 1964, I repeatedly heard the expression “Midland people – you could stir ‘Em with a stick.” Of course at first, I thought this was an insult. But now, I understand it completely and consider it a compliment.

Midland people are brave, strong, outgoing, loyal, adventurous, accomplished, kind, spirited and unique. We all share those qualities. So yes, it is quite a compliment to say ” we are all stirred by the same stick.”

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My Early Days at Sam Houston Elementary

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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!!!!

Ballet

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Written by Linda Mills Wofford

Ballet was such an important part of my early years. I absolutely loved it and looked forward to my weekly ballet classes after my school day at Sam Houston Elementary.

I loved everything about it – the discipline, the routines, the practices and working toward our yearly ballet recitals each May. What a fun, glamorous thing for a young girl to experience with the beautiful costumes, makeup, sophisticated hair do’s and much anticipated performances. 

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My Dad

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Written by Linda Mills Wofford

I would have to search far and wide to find a person who influenced my life more than my dad! His story is so interesting and compelling and one that proves he was definitely a part of “the Greatest Generation.”

Harold Boswell Mills, aka “Bobby”, was born on Nov. 13, 1917 in Baird, Texas. He grew up in Big Spring, Texas, and it was there he learned the true meaning of hard work, respect, compassion, loyalty and love of people and animals. And, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention his mental and physical toughness – after all, he did play football for Big Spring High School. After college, he married his high school sweetheart, my mom, Francies Lewis Rogers. Sadly, my mom passed away at the young age of 48. They had a rich and wonderful life together raising their three daughters – Sue, Bobbie Nell and myself.

My dad lost his father,  Howard Edward “Red” Mills, when he was a young boy of only five. His father was a firefighter for the railroad and perished in a train accident in Sweetwater, Texas. Being an only child, he immediately became the man of the family and lovingly took care of his mother, Mary Alice Mims,  until the day she died.

Because of his love of animals, he headed off to Texas A & M University, where he became a member of the Aggie Corps of Cadets. He was the epitome of a true and loyal Aggie. He even insisted that my sisters and I learn the Aggie Fight Song.

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