by Donna Swagerty Shreve
We lived in a small rented home in Linden, California. Dad was teaching at the small high school and he seemed to be coach of all the sports. I was my parents’ only child and received a lot of attention. I was dressed up to match the cheerleaders at the football and basketball games. I knew how to hold the stage. I was my parents’ little miracle and then in January 1949, Mom came home from the hospital with my baby brother Brian.
I was encouraged to be Mommy’s little helper and to be a “big girl.” I was fascinated with this tiny bundle that took up so much of the family’s time and energy.
My parents decided to have a small party to show off their new child. The day arrived and much preparation had gone into the event. I was allowed to be on my own and do whatever without the usual close supervision.
By the time the guests arrived, all was in order except my usual good behavior. I became irritable and could not be encouraged to change my demeanor. They finally gave up and put me to bed early and I was not protesting.
My parents had decided I had gotten a good dose of jealousy over my baby brother until she went into the kitchen the next day. I had left enough evidence to suggest that after drinking a cup of vinegar, I had given myself huge stomach cramps. Had I told them my tummy hurt? YES!
TESTING GETTING DISCIPLINE IN PUBLIC
The family was living in Linden or Escalon at the time and any serious shopping was done in the big town of Stockton. I have a few select memories of early childhood and this was one of them. I remember being with both parents but I don’t remember a sibling being with us though my mother certainly could have been carrying my brother as Dad was in charge of me.. I am guessing I was 3 or 4. We were in Smith and Lang department store in downtown Stockton on the first floor near the entrance. I started acting out and was very aware my behavior would not be received well by either parent. I went ahead any way, thinking neither would discipline me in public. I quickly found out discipline would be administered anywhere and at any time when Dad quickly grabbed me by my wrist and administered several quick swats to my bottom which I had certainly deserved. I am guessing it is ingrained so vividly in my memory because I was so calculating in my bad behavior thinking I could be in charge.
445 words
2015
Swagerty-Aldrich Family Web Site 