Weeks of Celebration!

The end of a school year is always crazy for teachers … but especially so when you add your own retirement to the mix!  Yep … we've been celebrating for two weeks here in DillyDallydom!

It is a long standing tradition to award retiring teachers an engraved Alaskan Gold Pan in our community.  Sort of an odd feeling to see one with your own name on it!

Two elementary teachers also retired this year … together we represent over 75 years of teaching in Cordova.  Each of us have taught a generation and have had the children of former students in our classroom!  I love that!

Many kind comments … good friends …

… and cake!  Of course!

My DillyDally Girls 

Sister traveled home from California to participate in some of the fun!  Brother was out of town on business, but Girlfriend DillyDally joined in the fun and didn't miss an event!  Love having these two beautiful faces at my dinner table!

In the very early hours (4:00 am!) … on the last day with students … I made a double batch of Caramel Rolls.

I surprised my 8th Grade Language Arts class with rolls and their favorite teacher who retired last year! Their squeals of delight were music to my soul!  What fun!

A former teaching couple also hosted an adult only party … so generous and gracious of them …

… many retired and current colleagues were there …

… stories and memories were shared …

… gifts and tributes were given.  OMGosh Good Golly!  Look at my hair!  Guess it is obvious I was in "party mode"!

Yep … we were even dancing!  What a wonderful way to begin the three day weekend!

We filled our weekend with family, fun and food!  Many friends gifted us with fresh seafood … so generous … so delicious!

I'm happiest when all my DillyDallys are seated at my table!

Sister got to determine the menu every night …

… she may live in the big city, but she loves the home cooked food of her childhood!  It was so wonderful to have the entire family home!

Tuesday and Wednesday this week were inservice days … I spent the time working on clearing out my classroom.  Several good friends dropped by to wish me well … it was wonderful … and I got everything done!

Am not sure that my decision to retire has really hit me … it probably won't until next fall when everyone else is returning to school … and I do not.  I have loved everything about my career … even when it was hard or difficult, I looked forward to Mondays … I was passionate about what I taught … and I completely enjoyed the students!  What a blessing it is to feel like that … bringing it to a close while enjoying the journey!

Next?  Well … I am only sure of one thing … my dillydally lifestyle will take on a new focus!

Do what you love.  Do dillydally!

Mrs. DillyDally