I retired from teaching in 2001, worked part-time for three years, then spent the next five years providing transportation, meals, psychological support and companionship for my very elderly father. We did surprisingly well — he was a wonderful old man.

When Dad passed away in the fall of 2009 (at 97!), I suddenly had a lot of time on my hands. After a year of duplicate bridge and performance events, I wanted something more productive.

I decided to reactiveate a long-standing interest in creative writing, with the idea of putting together a collection of short pieces to leave to my sons — a set of verbal snapshots of the inner me.

I had a wonderful time!

It was the most exciting thing I’d done in years. With the aid of the computer and my local office supply store, I have a handsome Personal Legacy Document for each of my boys. I’m proud of my work.

Sue Barocas is a retired high school math teacher. In addition to her Elderwriters project, Sue is a hospice volunteer for Lifetime Care, and an office volunteer for Flower City Habitat for Humanity. She lives in Rochester, New York.

You can email Sue at sbarocas@rochester.rr.com.