End of an Era
Well the time has come for me to hang up the curriculum, standards, teaching books, children’s books, whiteboards, and magnetic letters.
Last night was the formal district dinner for teachers and other staff, given in honor of our career accomplishments.

lots of polk-a-dots
I was so fortunate to be supported by my parents and sister at this formal event, since standing before a massive crowd while your life’s biography is being read, is quite unnerving. One of my school colleagues was also in attendance, so she helped make the evening fun.
Each employee was presented with a “golden apple” and engraved plaque to commemorate our dedication to education and children. Even more importantly, I also got a lifelong pass to all athletic and other school events in my district. Go team!

retirement apple 2010
I know it’s just a mere token of all my dedication, time, and devotion to children and my teaching career, but this apple means so much to me. It’s a reminder that if you work hard and follow your dreams, they indeed will come true.
How thankful I am that I’ve been able to help and encourage children every single day of my career, the last 22 years. I will miss them dearly. Now I’m off to explore the world of creativity, and tranquility.
My dreams may be changing, but my goals still remain the same. Wish me luck on this upcoming new chapter of my life.
Peace

May 7th, 2010 at 8:54 pm
We are wishing you good luck on your new chapter of life. You will have time to do what you love doing the most and spending more time with your friends and family. You will love it. The time is there for you to do what you want with it. Enjoy every minute.
“Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow but live today!” HAPPY RETIREMENT
Love you.
May 7th, 2010 at 9:01 pm
I just want to say that you looked lovely in your dress of dots.
We enjoyed sharing this memorable time with you. We wouldn’t have missed it for the world.
It was nice spending the evening with you and Cindy. It is always a pleasure.
As much as you would like to completely retire, I am sure Boulder Valley will keep you busy or as busy as you would like.
The apple is perfect for a teacher.
May 8th, 2010 at 11:36 am
Oh man, I would have loved to see that! Sounds great! I love the dress, too… you and Dave will have to go out on the town so you can wear it again!
Congrats, and I can’t wait to see what you do next.
(If you ever feel the need to teach some little ones something new, Bonnie and Hannah could really use some help with their reading comprehension. And help with not barking, you know.)
May 8th, 2010 at 2:56 pm
Hi Ally! Thanks for your kind words, and yes I’ll have plenty of time to help my grand-doggies with those areas still in need of intervention. I’d love to feature them in some future projects I have in mind. Hmmm …sounds like fun!
May 8th, 2010 at 2:58 pm
Hi Monee,
Thanks so much for your great support! I couldn’t of done it without you and Dad’s wisdom. I’m getting very anxious to start my Santa’s list of home improvement projects. Woo hoo!
XO
May 9th, 2010 at 2:18 pm
Holy crap. Twenty-two years?!? What does it mean that I remember when you first started? (Me = old, but you = older).
Congrats on being retired, Mommy! You’re living my dream! Care to switch places so I can not work? Seriously though, I’m so proud of you. It’s been especially wonderful getting a chance to see first-hand how you have been able to teach kids and see them use the methods YOU taught them. You’ve done amazing things (thanks for teaching me too!).
LOVE YA MOM!!!
May 9th, 2010 at 10:51 pm
Hi Diane!
Thanks for stopping in and commenting! You definitely are not old, I was just very young when I started my family. I appreciate your touching words. Teaching is such an art, and I’m glad I could help you as you’ve inspired so many of my students. They all adore and admire you.
Good luck honey, I love you!