About the Author

My name is Mary Ella (Clinch) Throener. I have lived in Nebraska all of my life, but I have moved nine times. Most of my years have been spent on a farm and in the field of education. I have worked in parochial and public schools and have spent a lot of time with hundreds of different children and youth. They are so inspiring, energetic, and sometimes challenges in work opportunities. Between animals and people, there is a lot to experience and be educated about. This, I am truly thankful for because I think it helps to live a good family life with a balance of both environments.

My elementary education was in a one-room school with nine grade levels, so at times, it seemed like I was being taught everything in every grade. My high school class had about fifty students, which was a good experience and education. I went to a community college and then received an associate’s degree from Creighton University. The college years were attended when I was in my late thirties. I very much enjoyed those classes at Creighton University; they were so inspiring and uplifting.

I have been married to Lawrence for over fifty years with six children, 15 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and one deceased great-grandchild.