My late husband -- Dr. Derry Magee -- and I enjoyed 62 years of marriage. He graduated from Texas A&M in 1958 and spent 49 years in veterinary practice in Louisiana and Texas A&M University before retiring in 2007.

After our daughter and only child graduated college, I enrolled in Southeastern Louisiana University at age 38 and began my college career. In 1978, I received a BA in Business Education. In 1980, I received a Master's Degree in Business Education with a minor in English. In 1984, I received a Specialist Degree in Supervision and Administration. After teaching and serving in school administration in Louisiana and Texas for 27 years, I retired in 2007. Education has been a high priority for our family, as Derry and I have helped encourage and support family members who received college degrees and post-graduate degrees.

My journey documented in this book, Joy in the Journey, tells of my life as a veterinarian's wife and educator. It describes my life as a parent and grandparent. After returning to Louisiana to reestablish my life in Franklinton, I have made many new friends and enjoy spending time with them, my family, and old friends.