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In 1982, Ann, 66, was a teacher when she met Ken, 69, deputy superintendant of the New York school district where they worked. It would be 30 years before their relationship became more than professional. They married June 18, 2011, and live in Lake Wylie, S.C. Ann tells their story.
First impressions: I was a new teacher in school when one day Ken casually walked into my classroom. He said hello and that he was just walking around, observing. He was tall and handsome and we became acquainted professionally. We never got to know each other personally or saw each other outside work, so I didn’t understand how I could have fallen in love with him. Eventually we went to different areas of New York.
Technology is grand: In 2007 I’d retired and was downsizing files at my home in Buffalo, N.Y. I came across some papers with Ken’s name on them and wondered what had become of him. I discovered he was living in Clover, S.C. I called him without knowing what to say. I got his answering machine and left a message.
Becoming friends: Ken called me back several days later and I was thrilled to hear his voice. We chatted and began calling one another every week. We kept in touch and he met me in Florida a few times before officially asking me on a date.
Unpredictable: I already knew I secretly loved Ken but called a friend and asked what dates were like these days. She told me to wear something nice and just be myself. One can never predict the course of love and I would never have thought this was possible. Ken is my best friend and he is a wonderful and kind husband, a lovely father and a super grandpa. Hilary Trenda
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