As always, I am thankful for family and friends. I am blessed to be able to help them, if needed, since retiring in August. I am so thankful to be retired during this coronavirus pandemic.

Having said that, I would be remiss if I did not say how extremely thankful I am for having taught kindergarten at Botetourt Elementary School.

During my years there, I worked with several principals and APs along with many teachers, specialists, resource teachers, and para-professionals. Through their kindness, suggestions and sometimes constructive criticism, I continually became a better teacher. My thanks to each of you.

Along with the cafeteria and custodian staff, office staff, nurse, guidance counselors, substitute teachers and bus drivers, I knew I was among a great group of dedicated people.

Dear to my heart are the many dedicated volunteers who crossed my classroom threshold over the years. Many returned year after year. I am sincerely thankful to each of you.

Finally, I am ...