I’ve been so fortunate to live in a number of places. However, there were some downsides. I missed all of my class reunions. I attended a picnic briefly but I had to leave to catch a plane to go somewhere else, so the picnic doesn’t even count.
This time, not only am I going to attend (YAY!), Doris Clendenen Shuman, our classmate and reunion organizer, asked me to help with a few things for the Amazing John S. Battle Class of 1974 40th Reunion. My dearest friend, Lisa Benfield Edwards and I met with Doris yesterday. I am so excited to get to be a part of it.
Here’s Doris…it’s only natural that the class reunion organizer was voted “Friendliest,” isn’t it?
And here’s Lisa posed on top of a piano. She and Eddie were voted “Most Talented” and it was well deserved. We are thinking of Eddie as we approach this reunion as he is very ill.
One of the sad things about a 40th reunion is the absence of those who have passed, and while working on our Class of 1974 Memory Board, I recalled Andy Grant. Andy and I were voted “Wittiest” among the Senior Superlatives. Andy died at an early age.
Here’s the very inappropriate picture of Andy and me. There are a few things wrong with this picture. First of all, smoking in the school?? Second, I’m sitting on his lap taking dictation! And oh my gosh…check out those wide-leg, cuffed bell bottom jeans! Whew…I recall lots of ironing and starching to get them just right!
There are also a few things right. We were young and happy. Andy had no idea his time was brief. I had no idea I’d make all kinds of crazy decisions that while they’ve enriched my life, they weren’t filled with wisdom and I hurt others along the way. For that I’m sorry. However, as I look at this picture, there are no regrets.
Look at you. Vaaah vaaah voom! You still have that same gorgeous smile, I bet you were a blast back then. 🙂
DeeDee….Haha…what happened to that dark hair? It was a fun time, but I was pretty selfish and Lisa and I were talking yesteday…a little MEAN!! Whew…thank goodness for grace!! :
Eva, that picture is EXACTLY like I remember you, and still ‘see’ you today!
I LOVE THAT PICTURE!! I have so many sweet memories w/Eddie too. I hate to hear he’s not well! I hope you ALL have a blast this weekend! I LOVE YOU!!
Amy
Thank you! We will! I heard you are going to Oz Saturday! Hope it is fun, too! Love you back! XOXO
Eva, this is a wonderful post. I am so sorry that Eddie is so sick. I had been looking forward to this for 2 years and I am very sad that I ended up sick and couldn’t make it. At least my friend Phil Fersky and a few others were found and encouraged to go through my cheer leading for the event. I pray everyone had an awesome time.I am glad there was a memory board created for those who have passed on.
Debbie
We missed you, too. Hang in there and get well!
Eva,
Thanks for posting all the great pictures. And also thanks for all the work you, Doris, and Lisa did getting the reunion together. I agree that we need to have another one in five years. Really enjoyed myself ! Great to see long lost friends and reminisce about the good old days.
Thanks again,
Danny Smith
Danny,
Thank you!!! It was fun for me, too!!