Number Two Daughter

About the Book

A military officer and his wife, along with their three daughters, travel to and live in several states and foreign countries. The middle daughter, who derived her nickname Shizukosan after living in Japan, was also tagged Number Two Daughter, as her family lovingly referred to her throughout her life. This is not just a tale, but many tales -- or vignettes -- of the author's life as a Military Brat. It then continues on with her memories, trials, and blessings, expressed in a humorous manner. The vignettes separate each decade into brief, individually titled bites, making it convenient when you want a quick read. Poignant. Entertaining. Educational. Humorous. Those words describe Number Two Daughter. Susanna invites you to sit back, relax, and take a front row seat in this movie of her life.

About the Author

Susanna Laird Madden loved her life as an Army Brat, as did her two sisters Laura and Bobbi. Living in Japan and Panama Canal Zone were exotic and exciting, and she counts her blessings for the amazing parents and opportunities she had. Her life has been filled with horses, dance lessons, snow skiing, scuba diving, and real estate. She even was a water ski show skier for fourteen years. Susanna graduated from Southeast Missouri University in Cape Girardeau with three majors. Her 56 year old Amazon parrot “Thammy” sat on her shoulder during many of her college classes, and Susanna likes to say, “I used to ask him for the answers, and sometimes I’d just cheat off his paper!” Then in 1976 Susanna moved to Tampa, Florida. No one’s life is perfect, including hers. She is a cancer survivor who credits both God and her parents for her survival. She believes keeping a sense of humor is vital in order to enjoy life in its fullest. This book is her legacy to her family, friends, and those whose paths she crossed. She says she will forever thank God for her many blessings. Susanna adds: To all of you who have been there for me so many times when I needed you, I offer this quote by Albert Schweitzer: “In everyone’s life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit.” Finally, Susanna says this favorite quote by Thomas Campbell sums up the purpose of this book: “To live in the hearts of those we leave behind is to never die.”