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.