Apples and Trees

Sssooo my mom and dad retired today. They had a party for my dad on Monday and wouldn't you know it 2 Newspaper reporters showed up! My dad is somewhat of a local legend (you can read the article here or the one from the tampa tribune here I was bummed that they didn't quote me). I think you have to be from Tampa or know South Tampa to understand why. I'll try to explain....
He spent most of his teaching/principal career at a prominent public high school. It's a very old very tight community that attends this school (we are talking generations, it's very similar to an ivy league college I guess). Probably some of the nicest people you will ever meet. (I also teach in the same community). Anyways as a coach of both football and wrestling he kind of adopted....well almost everyone who wanted to be adopted I guess (this is where I get it from I guess). When he was a principal it was the same thing, he even had his own homeroom so he could get to know students and help the kids who needed a swift kick in the..... And when he was injured in 1997 and became a quad all of his adopted "family" got the chance to show their appreciation. He received over 2,000 cards when he was in the hospital. He's just a really nice guy who has always tried to help everyone around him. I get my love of technology from him, and my stubbornness too. :) What can I say? We haven't always agreed on everything (like me going on a mission) but he's always given me unconditional love and support even when he thought I was doing something crazy. I feel very lucky to have 2 amazing parents like them. And if you haven't met them you should, you would understand why I am the way I am MUCH better that's for sure! They are kind of nervous about retiring, but I am relieved. I hope they finally get to enjoy a life of rest and relaxation. If anyone deserves it they do!