30 Day Blog Challenge Topic #2

RitaWriter teaching a group fitness class at Lifetime Fitness back in the day

20 Rita Facts!

  1. I was born in Ruston, Louisiana.

  2. I grew up 4 miles “up the road” in Grambling, Louisiana.

  3. I started playing the violin at the age of 8.

  4. I went to A. E. Phillips Laboratory School on Louisiana Tech’s campus.

  5. I won a couple of fiddlin’ contests back in the day.

  6. I went to Ruston High School and was Ms. RHS in 1989 (separate from Homecoming Queen).

  7. I won the North Louisiana Young Artists Competition for my high school division and got the chance to perform as a soloist in front of an orchestra.

  8. I went to Baylor at 17 on a full music scholarship.

  9. I’ve been teaching for 30 years.

  10. I’ve taught in 2 districts within those 30 years.

11.  I have been Teacher of the Year at 2 separate campuses.

12. I learned how to play the violin theme from “Schindler’s List” at the age of 52 because I love that piece and always wanted to learn it. 

13.  I was a group fitness instructor for 22 years at 24 Hour Fitness and Lifetime Fitness.

14. I got 5 out of 6 numbers one night playing the Lotto. I think I won $1500.

15.  I’ve run a couple of “13.1s” aka half marathons.

16.  I don’t have children of my own.

17.  I’m a Libra.

18.  I was a charter member of Delta Sigma Theta at Baylor University (Spring 1991).

19. I have a medical assistant and phlebotomy certification. I just don’t practice that. I chose the classroom. 

20.  My favorite restaurant is Pappadeaux. I love seafood!