Mommy-Razzi: November 2009

After 25 years of working in the public school system of Kokomo, Indiana, my mom retired in the Spring of last year. A middle school Science teacher, she was one of those teachers whose energy and enthusiasm turns so-so students into engaged and attentive students. She never merely taught from the book - and 25 years later her former students still seek her out to say "thanks". Yes, she was one of THOSE teachers. And she is one of those amazing moms, too. She finished her career as a guidance counselor at Kokomo High School - a job that requires and endless supply of patience, a spirit of service (because face it, it's a tough job to do), and a love of learning and helping kids pick and get into college. She was phenomenal at her job! But now, she's retired and loving it.

So when Don and Colin went to Camp Seagull in September for a Father-Son weekend of fun, Mom and I went on a retreat of our own... to Westglow Spa & Resort in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. For 3 days, we lounged around in big fluffy white robes and slippers, sipping on ginger tea and getting pampered. We ate the most amazing meals and enjoyed great conversation. We talked about our dreams and our hopes - and we spent plenty of time wishing we could stay there forever. Ever since returning from this trip, I've been swamped with the usual pre-holiday rush that comes with my photography business. And Mom has been spending most of her time visiting my 99 year old grandmother who had a severe stroke at the end of October.

Better late than never - I wanted to share with you a few pictures of our weekend at Westglow. Perhaps we will have to make this an annual trek!