Barbara Ann Bott Gallegos

5 grandchildren 3 great-grandchildren

WOW! 50 years, it just doesn’t seem possible, until I look in the mirror …As I look back, I realize, that I did not live a mundane life. Although I do not have a college degree per say, I feel I have earned a “Master’s Degree” in Life. I am not finished yet, now I am working on “My Doctorate”. We, the Class of 1961, are to be congratulated, even though there were some that fought it. We had the best teachers, who tried so very hard to impart their knowledge to us. From reading everyone’s personal biographies, I believe that was accomplished successfully.

During the first 30 years I, along with my husband Tony, raised 3 wonderful children. You know, hockey practice at 3AM, Gymnastic practice, cheerleader, track and dance. Whew, was I glad when they all turned 16 and could drive themselves! During those years we owned our own business where we lived & breathed everything there is to know about the business world, incorporating private, commercial and government contracting.

In 1983 a horrific auto-motorcycle accident, resulted in Tony being hospitalized for a year. A few years later the decision was made to sell the business, after 40 years of providing service to “4300 accounts” in metropolitan Denver. It was during that same period of time that I also wanted to explore other avenues of business and additional self-development. Having somewhat of an artistic creativeness, I made the decision to attend cosmetology school, where I entered design competitions and I earned awards, for hair design. I then went into a new career with a national Franchise for a few years, and for a greater part of that period, I managed 3 stores, at one time. I retired from that endeavor at age 50.

After a year of rest and relaxation, Life needed to be a little more challenging, so I went to work for Wachovia as an underwriter’s assistant. As additional recreation, I also got involved with kickboxing, “what a sport”! At age 59 on Christmas Eve, I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, I was in total shock! I was very sick for 3 years, until the right medication was found that suited my system. Two and a half years ago, as a result of this condition, I had all the joints removed from all 10 toes, to alleviate the pain, and so I could walk again somewhat comfortably. So far, so good! In order to keep my fingers flexible I learned how to create web sites, in my home office, which also required me to become a writer of articles. At the present time, I have backed off from the web-site therapy, as semi-retirement is now the life for me!! Today, I am grateful for each and every day, and I am looking forward to what excitement and new adventures the next 10 years will bring.

Tony and I just celebrated 50 years of marriage, on June 3rd, here in Littleton, with my
90 year old parents, our children, their spouses and other family members.

Reading, The challenge of raising tomatoes, and flowers in a very shady yard. Spending time out at the lake on the boat, with our children & grand kids. Travel, Just being able to pick up and leave at a moment's notice. Hiking the many open space trails around our home.