This week Aunt Jeanette writes:

I wrote the following poem in honor of the retirement of a wonderful, patient, kind, creative teacher who taught next door to me for many years. Not only did we share our teaching ideas, classes, successes, and disappointments, we share a friendship that will endure through the years. When I was having a bad day, she was always there to lift me up and offer encouragement. It was one of those colleague friendships that you wish everyone could experience, but you just don’t find every day. So here’s to you, Susan. Enjoy!

As you retire from teaching, Susan, my friend,
May you know joy and happiness that will never end.
Please remember the many lives you have touched,
Each girl and each boy that has loved you so much.
All the friends, too, you’ve made on the way
To this much anticipated retirement day.
Throw that pesky alarm in the trash,
When Steve leaves to farm, back to bed you may dash!
Dreams of recess duty, conferences, papers to grade,
Standards, tests, charts can now slowly fade.
You’ll never again wonder if there’s enough snow
For school to be canceled, or if that north wind will blow.
For you see, our friend Dave N. said it the best,
“Every day is a snow day!” now that you’ve earned your rest.

This poem is for you, your new life to begin,
And don’t ever forget what a blessing you’ve been!
Enjoy every day, read books, and rest much,
From one of those friends whose life you have touched!

Until we walk again …