The earliest memory I have of writing was when I was around 9 years old. We were learning poetry in English class and when I went home that day I decided to send my first poem to the newspaper, The Hartford (CT) Times Children's Poetry Corner. Alas, just as quickly I received my first rejection. But, what a rejection -- a hand-written letter by the Poetry Editor encouraging me to continue writing and to continue submitting. Even though more than 60 years have passed, I still think about the influence he had on my decision to keep writing.   After spending most of my life in Connecticut, two years ago I retired to Florida. I love it here, although with my family and friends still in Connecticut, I am inspired to travel back as often as I can to visit.   I also travel back to give book talks. Along with writing and traveling, public speaking is my third passion.  For several years after my CT book I presented some 50 book talks a year to libraries, men's and women's clubs, civic organizations, garden clubs, newcomers clubs, historical organizations, and the like.