Reunion Weekend

I showed up last night to my 35^th high school reunion.

While some folks looked the same,

I did not recognize a few at first glance.

And as we walked in the room,

there were two pieces of paper to honor

two of our class who are no longer here.

And it stopped me in my tracks.

Time cut short.

So many stories left behind.

 

As we talked through the night,

I don’t necessarily feel older-

except for the fact high school feels

like a lifetime ago

and that my children

are now well past high school themselves.

I just feel layered.

There’s still a piece of me

that’s wearing saddle oxfords and a plaid skirt.

Still sixteen, driving the little green car.

Still eighteen, trying to figure it all out in real time.

 

Each age and stage leaves a little souvenir.

A favorite song.

A ring on a finger.

A lesson.

Another story to soften the way I see the world.

 

Growing up, I thought I’d outgrow her.

But she never really left.

She's just keeps learning more about herself and the world around her

and learning new ways to show up.

 

So today as I grieve those who are no longer with us,

I’m celebrating that today is a gift.

I get to keep growing- 

keep learning how to love,

keep finding joy in ridiculous little things.

So here’s to every past and future me.

And to this one,

Grateful to be here.

Nikki, Emily, me, and Angie 

Mary Carmen, Nikki, Emily, Marnie and Kristin 

Laurin, Meredith, Sara, and Maury 

Holly 

Nikki 

Sara 

other weekend pix below 

Bunny 

Percy Warner Park with Rachel 

dinner with Dad on Thursday night 

visit with Ann Poteet