Argomenti trattati
The decision to stay at Holland Hall for so many years came down to people. Colleagues, students and families — past and present — became an extended family for me; the school culture is rooted in close connections and shared moments. Being part of that community felt like belonging rather than a job, and I count myself fortunate to have been included in so many lives over time. The sense of relationship is what made daily work meaningful and is the reason I remained involved for such a long period.
Choosing retirement was not about leaving so much as shifting priorities into a different rhythm. I’m ready for a season in life that allows travel, slower mornings and more time at home. Gardening has been a longtime interest — I’ve tended a plot for years and now want to learn to do vegetable gardening correctly. There’s also a new four‑legged companion named Penny, and spending time with her is already shaping how I picture these next months. I intend to stay connected to the school community in smaller ways.
Looking ahead: daily rhythms and small projects
Retirement for me means reclaiming time for hobbies and steady pursuits. I’m excited to devote focused attention to gardening, because while I’ve had a garden for years, I want to deepen my skills and grow vegetables more successfully. I also look forward to long walks, reading more books and short trips with my husband. Watching sports remains a joyful pastime — rooting for the Holland Hall US girls basketball program, OU football and other favorite teams gives structure to weekends. Above all, I want home to be a place of calm and discovery, where projects and relationships share center stage.
How I got here: mentors and first opportunities
A timely introduction
Entry into this role came through a meaningful connection. A former Kindergarten teacher, Beth Campbell, played a key part by alerting me to an opening. Through a friend at Jenks I learned they needed a third grade assistant, and after interviewing I began that position within two weeks. That early combination of encouragement and quick action changed my course, demonstrating how a single recommendation can open long-term doors. I credit that initial nudge with starting a path that led to decades of involvement at Holland Hall.
Family as the central achievement
When people ask about my proudest accomplishment, I point to my family. I have been married to my husband, Tim, for 47 years, next month; we met while attending Oklahoma Baptist University in Shawnee. Together we raised two sons and two daughters: Patrick and Jillian live in Tulsa, while Matthew and McKalyn have settled in Edmond. Their presence in our lives — and the ways they’ve built their own families — is what I consider my greatest accomplishment, and those relationships will shape how I spend retirement.
Beliefs, counsel and contentment
Some lessons and pieces of guidance have stuck with me. The simplest and most meaningful advice I received is Give grace, a principle I try to embody daily. To those starting out in education, my thought is clear: love the work. If young teachers are passionate about their subject and the students they serve, they can truly make a difference. Although I never worked as a classroom teacher, I know that if I had chosen that path I would have been a biology teacher because science has long been my favorite field. I have few regrets; most experiences teach something valuable.
Everyday joys and favorite things
Retirement will also mean indulging in small pleasures. I enjoy walking and reading, nurturing the garden, traveling and watching a wide range of sports — from school events to collegiate and professional games. Favorite films that I return to include Under the Tuscan Sun, Shawshank Redemption and The Holiday, and when it comes to food I am fond of salmon from Fish Daddy’s as well as many Mexican dishes. These simple favorites help define ordinary happiness and will shape how I spend my days going forward.