This will be my 24th year teaching (!) and it’s forced me to take inventory of my experience.. 1st – 12th grades, general education (18 yrs.), special education (6 yrs.), reading / writing, math, science, team teaching, co-teaching, and professional development & teacher/tech trainer.

I’m happily married with three beautiful children. Both of our sons are serving in the United States Air Force. The baby and only girl is working through her first year of college.. in the middle of this global pandemic. Admittedly, we are so glad to have her home with us.

My husband and I coach Hawaiian outrigger paddling here in Napa. Our club is called Ohana Wa`a, which means ‘family canoe’. If I’m not at school or watching Gracie play in the band, I’m on the water! If you ever see us, make sure you shout out and wave!

Within the first few days of my breast cancer diagnosis, I knew what my lesson in all of this would be… to learn how to ACCEPT and RECEIVE the love and help from those around me graciously. THIS is a toughy, and has always been a challenge for me, but I’m learning that right now.. I NEED the love and support of all those offering it.

I don’t want to be a bother. I don’t want to put people out. I don’t want to take people’s time. The most valuable thing we are given is time, and I don’t feel comfortable when people offer it.

It’s overwhelming, and it’s hard.

This indeed… will be my lesson.