How I loved this woman. She and I taught at Alma Middle School for more than 20 years. We did so many things together. She was my best friend. We could sit and talk for hours about school, our families, what we thought should happen and what we could do about it. The latter statement is true because we would try to do something about things that we thought should change. We were sponsors of clubs at school, and were always trying new projects with the students that would benefit the students, the school, and the community. I told the children and John that Carlene and I would “ask for forgiveness” instead of permission, and boy could we play the innocent role. She was a woman, friend, and teacher that would go out of her way to help and guide. She was always there when I needed help and I was there for her. It got to be where you saw one of us working on something; the other was not far away. We had our own “Band Bus” when Dee, Francie and Larry were in band. We were known for being the cleanest bus and we hoped the most enjoyable. We tried to mother them all and they knew we were there for those kids. She was one of those people that everyone went to when in need of advice, love, and caring. She loved her work and those kind of teachers are hard to find. I am sure all of her students remember her and I feel that they were blessed by being in her class. I can remember when we retired. She nor I wanted a big reception for our “going away”, but we decided that if we did it together then it would be OK. Well, I left her by herself that day, (Bill was in the hospital at LR) and she had to be on her own. I will miss just talking on the phone about “our kids” and everything that we were both doing. I know that she is taking care of people where she is and finding all “things to do”, but I am going to miss her. In her way she is making everyone aware that you should treasure every day, and make sure the ones around you know you love them. I witnessed the love her family had for her. A pat on the shoulder, or a hug or a kiss or just simply a touch or a look were there for her, and knowing her like I did, she appreciated everything. Dear Best Friend, I will miss you, but I am a better person by loving you.