“I willed my hair to Nokomis Junior High School.” It’s a memory the King’s mother has shared many times since she came to live with us.

“Willing” something important to the classes behind you was the thing to do in those days. In her case, it more or less happened, because her life has, in many ways, centered around Nokomis.

She grew up in a little house at the back of a lot across the street from that school.

Through much of her adult life she prepared and served food to students and staff in Nokomis’ lunchroom.

When she retired, it wasn’t long before she moved into Nokomis Square Cooperative, which was built on the site where the school once stood.

And now one of the highlights of her week is Wednesday when she goes to the “hairdresser,” because, while it may no longer be long, thick, dark and wavy, her hair is still very important.

A gray head is a crown of glory; it is found in the way of righteousness. Proverbs 16:31