I remember in the fourth grade when my teacher Mrs. Yaffey gave us children within her class assignments for a science project.
We all had different educational activities to construct.
My project involved building a type of thermometer.
I was about nine or ten years old and wondered how I was going to put together and accomplish what this thermometer was supposed to do according to the paper/document the teacher handed out to me.
I automatically assumed the job was too big for me- a first lesson within life to never place limits upon myself about what I can achieve merely by observation of something that may appear to be difficult.
My mother had gotten one of her adult male friends to carve out wood pieces with a full-size saw tool that our family owned (this was back during the 1980’s) so that I could use the timber as a base for building the thermometer.
I do not remember every little detail that went into assembling my project. But I do recall the thermometer needing metal wire, a straw and a few other materials that I, with the help and direction of my mother’s friend, was able to complete.
I was amazed at how the ketchup we used inside the straw arose to the top of its bulb.
My science project was a total success!
I was awarded a certificate of accomplishment at the science fair that was held in the gymnasium of my school.