To my husband, Richard, who without his love and support this book could not have been possible To my parents my mom, Irene Brower who taught mme the joy of cooking and Dad, Joseph Brower, an English teacher, who taught me the love of the English languageTo my children, Paul Hagen and Beth Armstrong whose love and strength inspire me every day To my grandchilren, Juliana and Benjamin whose zest for life. renew my spirit everyday To my siblings, Joe, Beth and John who made growing up in a large family a joy and a blessing And finally to my former students who shared their hopes and dreams with me