Barbara retired from teaching elementary school in 1998 and moved to Muskoka where she had spent a lifetime of summers. Having studied for years at the Centre of Movement in Toronto, her desire to continue instruction led her, in 2002, to Sifu Valerie’s class where she discovered that Tai Chi offered opportunities for physical, mental and spiritual growth. A decade as a caregiver lent insight into the potential realities of old age. It became obvious to her that Tai Chi, practised regularly, was an excellent way to maintain balance, strength and flexibility as well as mental clarity and focus. Hence Temple Knights became a constant influence in her life and she enjoys the challenge of sword, staff and sabre.