Thanks Friona!

Four years ago this month marked a bittersweet time in my life. It was my 20th class reunion. Two days pre-reunion my dad died and two days post-reunion he was buried. And while that 5 day period was hard and painful, I thank God for the events of that weekend and for my classmates. They helped make an unbearable time in my life a little better. You see, I was blessed by growing up in a small town. Most of my us went to school together for 13 years, and when you have a class size of 74...you get really close. Don't get me wrong, I'm not dissing big schools, I'm just saying I feel really blessed to have a close, personal friendship with a lot of my classmates. They're family.

Two weeks ago, I attended Friona's all-school reunion. It was the 100th anniversary of the schools and I had so much fun! It was neat seeing all of the history, not to mention the people. Our family alone represented classes from the 40's, 50's, 60's and 80's. (And yes, my Granny was there with her date.) I was thankful that UH didn't remember T and I. There's a lot of unsolved mysteries from the 80's. Ha. And it was nice to learn that Mr. P. didn't retire because of me and D. And how in the world does Mrs. R. remember seating charts from 25 years ago? And sweet Mrs. O still looks the same. She was one of my favorite teachers and represented her Friona class from 1936, I believe. So many memories!

Class of 83...it was great seeing our Seniors! J...you're as crazy as ever; always fun to be around. I know coming home can't be easy. J, you inspire me...where do you get the strength and courage to do all that you do? Sign me up! And J...when God closes a door, he opens a window. It was so nice seeing you again. Hang in there my friend!

Class of 85...thanks for letting us hang with you guys. What fun! It was nice seeing each of you. B, you amaze me; what a success story! S, thanks for asking about my daughter - it meant a lot to me. T...what can I say...your wit keeps me laughing. B...you haven't changed bit. And M...as sweet as ever...I enjoyed our talk. And R and J...I love you guys; you made band so much fun!

Class of 86...sorry you had to be the lone male J, but you can honestly say that you were a chick magnet! T and D...I enjoyed rehashing horror stories from the past. M, thanks for being my date...so happy you have J in your life! M, it was great seeing you, my Land of Enchantment comrade.

Good friends and great memories!