38 years later, a legacy.

We were thrilled to be included in a special party to celebrate my mom's retirement after 38 years in education.  So many of the ladies at her school put tremendous effort into making this event special, and yet low-key just like Mom would want it.  It was an Auburn themed shrimp boil, perfect for celebrating Tootsie!

Having been colleagues and friends for over 30 years, Mrs. Babs still knows what will make my mom smile.

I know most people don't realize it, but in situations where she's unfamiliar with people Turner can become quite shy and reserved.  She was certainly a little overwhelmed with unfamiliar at this event and she sought solace in helping Tootsie open her gifts.  As I snapped this picture I overheard another teacher say, "If I had that sweet girl waiting on me at home I'd retire too."

Showing off an absolutely stunning Sorrelli Auburn bracelet.

Somehow, Turner ended up with my camera and you can see the silliness that ensues when this occurs.

Who needs a fork for Key Lime Pie?

My mom text me a picture of this shirt (a gift from her zany media specialist) on the last day of school and asked me if she should wear it...I said absolutely!  She didn't...but did put it on for a few seconds at the end of the party!

Love this pic

When you spend your entire 38 year career in one school, you become a "fixture" of sorts and certainly a foundation of stability in what is an ever-changing educational world.  I grew accustomed to people always stopping us in public to talk to my mom, at times reminiscing about the fact that she was pregnant with me when they were in her class or reminding her that their favorite exercise in her PE class was the "Go Chicken Fat Go" dance.

After 28 years as a PE teacher, she became a counselor and I would venture to say has counseled as many teachers, parents, grandparents, and friends as she has students in these last 10 years.  My mom is a beloved friend and confidant whose smile and love of laughter can turn even the worst situations into manageable events.  It is quite apparent that her presence will be missed.

When I look back at my path to a career in education it's clear that Mom helped me recognize a gift of teaching early in my life.  And though there were a couple of moments when I considered other professions and moments when my dad encouraged me to pursue other career choices, my mom never once steered me away from being a teacher.  She let me find the path on my own and surprisingly (to me) I found my passion in teaching middle aged adolescents, just like my mom. Fortunately for me I have been able to glean from her wisdom and expertise for 12 years of my career, and thankfully she hasn't gloated too much as I have transitioned from teacher to administrator and have eaten a good amount of crow in these last two years. 

Mom, on behalf of the nearly 13,000 students that you've impacted in these last 38 years I want to say thanks.  You will never know this side of Heaven how many self-esteems you've rebuilt, how many hurts you've mended, and how many lives you've changed for good.

We love you and and are so proud of you!