This and That

About the Book

The author of this anthology of poetry and stories captures a lifetime of meaningful reflections from childhood to older adulthood. It retells life’s challenges and triumphs navigated through an unconditional, ultimate faith in God. Poems expressing gratitude, love and the joy of motherhood and marriage will inspire the reader to appreciate the simple pleasures that contribute to lasting happiness and meaning in life. The writer discovered early in life a talent to write creatively, in addition to singing which endeared others to admire her tremendously. Wondering what the ladybug might be thinking of to discovering the value of enrolling in an assertion class to learn how to express “Assertive Refusals” are spices to flavor and reassert a life of self-determination. The “Bible on the bookshelf” in the home reminds everyone of their duty to honor one’s commitments and help repair a fractured world. The poetry and stories in this book mirror a life worthy of ultimate respect and love, which is why it is preserved for all to learn and appreciate.

About the Author

Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Ann Marie Platamone Romero. I have enjoyed a very fulfilling 85 years starting as a first generation child of immigrant parents in the city of Cleveland, Ohio. I enjoyed my early years in the company of mom and dad and five siblings, and upon reaching the age of nine years, dad decided it was time for a change. His “Paisani” convinced him that the opportunity had come to move to California where the weather was “justa lika Sicilia.” To California we did go. We settled in south Los Angeles now the hood. I proceeded to mature and attended 109th Street Grade School. Gompers Junior High School where I was student body president and Washington Street High School. I have no formal college education, but found I had an ability to write and express myself. In my early teen years I was able to find work at the local five and ten, and yes, items were priced for five and ten cents. During this time I met the love of my life who also worked a few blocks down at the local super market. He was the box boy! Oh what an enlightening two years it was. Soon after, mom dictated It was time to marry this young man or leave him. Marry we did and now we have been together for 68 years, including six children and nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Over the ensuing years while raising my children and caring for the family, I managed to work various jobs and was introduced to this mind provoking, inclusive senior class with an instructor named Dr. Elijah Levy who brings out the best in each and every one of us. In closing, yes I am extremely happy and satisfied with the life the Lord has given me no matter the trials and tribulations !!!