The Official Wife

You know those guys that run up and down a basketball court wearing stripes, blowing a whistle and get yelled at by coaches and fans? Well, one of those guys is my guy. The Official Wife is the story about a being married to a basketball referee, having four small children, and finding my way as a wife and mother. It is humorous and heartfelt as well as a real life love story. It also gives an insight into the life and career path of a referee.

You know those guys that run up and down a basketball court wearing stripes, blowing a whistle and get yelled at by coaches and fans? Well, one of those guys is my guy. The Official Wife is the story about a being married to a basketball referee, having four small children, and finding my way as a wife and mother. It is humorous and heartfelt as well as a real life love story. It also gives an insight into the life and career path of a referee. Details are given about how these guys get hired and what kind of yearly schedule as well as a behind the scenes look at the world of officials. Being married can be difficult at times but when you are married to a ref (or coach) it can get even harder. I had no idea what I was really getting into when I got married to my ref and it has been ten years of getting adjusted. Throwing our small kids into the mix just made it even more interesting and way more entertaining. Along the way I learn about myself and my courage and somehow find my own strength.

I was born and raised in Oklahoma where my dad was a farmer and rancher. Having grown up in a small town and close to family, a sense of community has always been important to me. I have always enjoyed writing but my love for it was developed in high school where I won a trip to New York because of an essay that I had written. I caught on thought, “Hey this writing stuff might take me somewhere.” After I graduated from high school I went on to graduate from Oklahoma State University with an early childhood education degree. I taught kindergarten for a few years in the Tulsa area and it was during that time that I married my husband, Jeff. I left teaching to help out at our newly acquired travel agency which we eventually closed. I guess that I wasn't a great travel agent! Hahaha! We started our family in 2005 and increased it in, 2007, 2008, and 2010. Jeff and I have two girls and two boys and a small herd of dogs. Well, big dogs but small herd. I stay at home to raise our kids as well as train for and participate in various runs, volunteer at the kids' school and I am active in our community’s coalition with the goal of improving the lives of my fellow citizens. I usually look like a crazed loon trying to keep my every day house life duties done at the same time. This is hard to do and maintain any glamour. Thank goodness for ponytails!