HILDE SMITH

As a youngster who could read at an early age I loved to read to other kids, recite poems and act out stories. My teaching career started in the American Dependents School in Frankfurt, Germany where I taught German to 2nd and 3rd grade students for two years before I came over here and ended up as a German teacher in High School. I loved my job and found it very satisfying. I fondly remember the younger children who were so responsive and attentive, and due to their younger age parroted my speaking with no accent noticeable when they spoke German. They even sang "Silent Night" in German on the  American Forces Network ( Radio).

So -- when I learned at the Senior Center that they were looking for readers, I volunteered. Furthermore I wanted to find out about Ohana 100, since I knew that "ohana" means family.  I learned that on our trips to Maui.  

I have enjoyed my reading with you, often the children respond actively, wanting more than one book, and the best is when some step forward and give you a hug or wave to you.