Retirement

From the time I was in grade school, I always wanted to be a teacher. I
graduated from high school at 16 and began college the following Sep-
tember. There were thirteen years between my sophomore and junior
years. During those years I worked as a stenographer and secretary at
several places. I was even the secretary to the president of the college
where my husband taught. We moved to Florida in 1958 and I con-
tinued my secretarial duties until my husband moved us to Orlando
where he was a part of the founding faculty and administration of a
new university. I was in the first graduating class. I spent my entire
teaching career in three Seminole County schools.

When I retired in 1996, I swore I would never work at night again.
I had graded papers--that's what English teachers do--almost every
night during that time. I had dreams of all the wonderful things I
would accomplish when I retired: I would plant rose bushes, I would
take piano lessons, I would become active in the women's
activities in the church, and I would play bridge.

I did a little bit of all of that except taking piano lessons. I never
found the time for that. I did get involved in the church and do
play bridge. In fact, I got myself so involved I often wonder how
I ever had time to work.

The most wonderful thing I have done since I retired is taking
care of a new grandson, Jesse (1996), and a new grand daughter,
Marla (2002). That has been one of the greatest pleasures of
my life. Marla and I also have a mutual admiration society. She
actually saved my life -- more about that at a later date.

I also have an almost two year old grand daughter who lives in
Jackson, Ms. Periodically I have to make a trip up there to sit
with her when they need me. Of course, I am also very much in
love with her. When I am there, I am completely happy. Chelsea
and I have a wonderful time together. We, too have that mutual
admiration society. I have been truly blessed. I wish I were
nearer to her so that I could keep her while her parents work.