As I start my 25^th year with the University of Illinois Extension, it seems lately that I have been attending more retirement parties. When I was a newbie in Extension, I remember sitting at an Annual Conference ceremony where they were honoring staff for years of service. I was really surprised with the number of people who had 25, 30, 35 years of service. My thought was how anybody could stay in the same job for so long. Now I know. It's the great people you work with and the people you serve, plus everyday is different in this job.

Today I was in the Kankakee Extension office for Barb Farner's retirement party. Barb has been with Extension for 38 years. Barb was a Nutrition and Wellness Educator. Barb served with the Peace Corps for two years before starting her long career with Extension. Barb has traveled all over the world. She speaks Spanish fluently and has done some of her programs in Spanish. I want to wish Barbara all the best in her retirement. She will be missed.