Favorites and Memories

An Interview with Brenda Seybold

By Charlotte Rummell

I am Charlotte, and today I will interview my grandma, Brenda Seybold. In this interview, you will hear about high school tips, baking specialties, raising a family, and traveling. I chose to interview Grandma Brenda because she was my real grandma’s best friend. Through her, I hope to get to know my grandma and hear about the childhood they shared. 

Grandma Brenda and I have a lot in common, especially hobbies. We both like to bake and make clothes. Grandma Brenda encouraged me to start sewing because she talked about how she and my grandma used to make their own clothes. I was mostly excited to sew because it meant I could hang out with Grandma Brenda. When I was younger, I learned a lot about sewing from her. I still learn about other crafts from our conversations. Grandma Brenda has inspired me to try new things. She has supported me as I pursue baking, sewing, and sports. One of my favorite memories with Grandma Brenda is when she and Grandpa Gary came to my soccer game. It was fun to see them, and I was so happy they could watch me play. We even got pizza after.

What is your favorite childhood memory? 

Meeting your grandmother, Carlene. It was probably in 8th grade. After that, we were friends forever. 

What was your favorite thing about my grandma? 

She was so creative, always making something, sewing something. She was a lot like you in that way. I think she would have loved to see you sewing clothes. 

What do you wish you could redo or change?

Things I couldn't change…I wish my mother had lived longer. I would have wanted to have stayed at Hillsdale for high school, instead of moving to New Mexico. 

What was the most important lesson your parents taught you? 

To always tell the truth, even if it hurts to tell the truth. 

What is your favorite beauty product or tip?

My friend and I met at Ulta today. We talked with a girl about eye makeup. My favorite brand is Benefit. I really like mascaras. They have eyeshadows that go on like crayons now. They are fun to use, too. 

What is your favorite thing to bake?

Cookies. During the holidays, I make cookie trays for all eight houses here on our block. I start in late November, and I bake whenever I can. I bake two kinds of cookies, and I put them in the freezer. And then a few days later, I make two more kinds. That way, I can wind up with a variety of cookies to give away. 

Where is your happy place? 

Visiting my brother. He's not doing well these days. It makes me happy to be able to see him/

What would you want to change about your life right now? 

I want to be healthier. To be a little younger. Getting older isn't easy, but it happens. I am trying to stay active and spend more time with people. 

I think that you should bake me more cookies.

Bake more cookies? 

Yeah, for me. 

Oh, for you. You can bake your own cookies. You can even make beautiful cakes. 

What is something you have done that was out of your comfort zone? 

A friend of mine asked me to speak at her daughter's bat mitzvah. I don't like public speaking. 

What was one of your goals in life? Did you achieve it? 

To have daughters, because I only have brothers. I wanted girls, and I got two. 

What was your favorite thing to do with your daughters when they were young? 

We loved having tea parties and playing dress up. Cydney and Rhonda were very girly growing up. It was always fun. 

What is your biggest accomplishment?  

Raising two daughters. Having lots of friends and family, and spending time with them. I am happy to have so many loved ones around me all the time. 

What is one thing you could teach me right now? 

Your dad said you really like volleyball, huh? If I could teach you one thing right now, it would be to stick with it because you love it. I hope I can come to some games.