Fifty years ago five hundred plus young women and men walked away from their childhood and into their future. They were smart, strong, and many were scared to death, and I was one of them. This past weekend we came together to celebrate the joys and heartaches of the past half century, and how exciting it was to see that Muncie Central produced more than just amazing basketball teams. (The Bearcats had won 5 state championships by 1969, a state record, and went on to win 3 more by 1988)

From surgeons to judges, teachers and nurses, writers and a couple of published authors, the class of 1969 has definitely made it’s mark in history. We’ve also lost many classmates, some way too young, and hearing their names read, and remembering them as young and carefree kids, was very emotional.

For me the best part of the weekend was reminiscing with people I had forgotten I cared about! I know that almost seems like an oxymoron, but it’s true! Over the course of a lifetime we meet so many people that our brain has to compartmentalize them, but once you see that person’s face, or hear their voice, the memories all come rushing back. Many of my fellow graduates were with me from elementary school on, and those were the people I enjoyed talking with the most.

I realized as I started to write this that there isn’t a relationship that I’ve ever had that isn’t etched on my soul. Some are memories that I savor like a fine wine, and some I keep locked away, but each and every one has been special and had meaning, and I’m thankful for all of them. Our Fifty-fifth reunion is already scheduled for June 14, 2024! Can you believe it? It’s hard to think that once again there will be names read of people who are no longer with us, but for now I’m grateful for the wonderful time I had with old friends, and for all the blessings the last fifty years have brought to my life. And who knows. Maybe by the time the next reunion rolls around I’ll be a best selling author.

In 1969 we stepped into the world wearing Rose Colored glasses. In 2019 we walked out of our reunion aware of the realities of life, but holding tightly to wonderful memories…

Muncie Central, oh Muncie Central, Muncie Central, we’re all for you.

We will fight for the cream and purple, and to no one will we give in.

Never daunted, we shall not falter, in the battle we’re tried and true.

Muncie Central, oh Muncie Central, Muncie Central we’re all for you!

Mike says we danced to In My Room by The Beach Boys at a party in 8th grade and I was the first girl he held in his arms. I do not remember that!

“In the end you always go back to the people that were there in the beginning”. My Dear Valentine 💜

Next weeks Blogpost is an interview with Sandy Barker, a self published author who now has an agent and a book deal! She’s a joy…don’t miss it.

Until we read again… 📚

Blessings,

Dana L.❤️