Mel was a FABULOUS student teacher of mine when I taught at Oak Harbor Middle School. She was no stranger to us at the middle school since she had been a paraprofessional prior to her student teaching experience. I was honored to have her. Mel is what you dream a student teacher will be! Plus she’s an exceptionally nice, fun person. Ironically, Mel and I both retired from teaching in June 2018, so we were anxious to have a toast together when Barry and I made it down their way.
We first met for lunch. I had never really been around Dale much in Oak Harbor, but oh, my! What a fun and very funny guy! We had so much fun catching up that I think the wait staff thought we had become permanent fixtures! It was fun talking about where we each want to go from here in our lives. We found we have a lot in common. We had to get together again before we left.
How many hours have we been here?? LOL 
We got together again. This time we drove to their beautiful home that they would soon be putting up for sale. It is in the area of the PGA West homes. Their home has a gorgeous, open backyard that then borders a fairway, mountains, and is often home to some big horn sheep. We timed our visit well. The big horn sheep were there! Not up on their patio as happens sometimes, but close enough. đŸ™‚ Soon we all got in their car and Dale took us around to see some sites of the area. He has been a golf pro at several of the PGA courses, but now enjoys being a golf marshall. He took us to see some of them.
Then we stopped at La Quinta Resort, a quaint, peaceful spa and resort that is surrounded by the Santa Rosa Mts. It is quite popular with long-time, high profile regulars to Palm Springs. The grounds were beautiful with exquisite flowers! From here we went to the golf club for dinner. Another thoroughly enjoyable afternoon and evening with Mel & Dale! When we got back to their house we were able to see how beautifully lit the hillside is at night! I certainly hope our paths cross again soon. Happy retirement and enjoy your new adventures!
